This new Jaecoo J5 compact crossover is set to eventually launch in Malaysia by the end of this year.
Now that the Jaecoo J7 has trounced the Proton X70, it looks like the Chinese automaker is setting its sights on the smaller X50 too with the imminent introduction of its J5. Currently open for booking ahead of its official launch later this year, word on the street is that this compact crossover will be priced at around the RM 120,000 mark when it finally lands in Malaysian showrooms.
Starting on the outside, the J5 is essentially a J7 that has been put through the photocopier at around 80%. Dimensions for this compact crossover are 4,380 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,650 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm.
As for exterior aesthetics, the J5 sports the now-signature Jaecoo blocky front grille up front and a slim light bar across its rear. Along the sides sit 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels and conventional door handles, while buyers who want an extra touch of style can opt for two-tone paint to further enhance its presence.
Powering the front wheels of the Jaecoo J5 is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 147 PS and 210 Nm of torque, paired to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5 litres per 100 km on the WLTC cycle, but what is perhaps more impressive under the skin is that this compact crossover features a rear multi-link suspension setup, which is a step up from the torsion beam arrangement typically seen in most of its direct rivals.
And in continuing on what happens round the rear of this Jaecoo, the J5 offers 480 litres of cargo space in the boot, expandable to 1,180 litres when the 60:40 split-folding rear seats are folded down. Its five-seater cabin, meanwhile, is upholstered entirely in faux leather, with the automaker proudly touting TUV certification for the pet-friendly materials used.
As for the rest of the interior, tech within the cabin is anchored by a large 13.2-inch portrait-style touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by an 8.0-inch fully digital instrument cluster. An 8-speaker audio system, wireless charging pad, and what Jaecoo claims to be the largest panoramic moonroof in its class (measuring 1.45㎡) are also included on the equipment list.
Safety and driver assistance features are equally comprehensive, with this J5 packing Level 2.5 ADAS. Among the highlights are adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a 540-degree HD surround view camera system.
Bookings for the Jaecoo J5 are now open with a fee of RM1,000, and those wanting their first glimpse can catch it at the OMODA I JAECOO Carnival at Desa ParkCity taking place this weekend. Also making its debut at the preview event was the new Omoda C9 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), showcased alongside the flagship J8 and the J7 PHEV.
