PETALING JAYA: The mystery around a large black box at The Waterfront at Desa ParkCity in Kuala Lumpur for the past two days has finally been solved with the reveal of Malaysia’s newest sport utility vehicle (SUV), the Jaecoo J7.
Previewed to the public for the first time at the Jaecoo Premiere Experience event, the J7 is the first model from the premium off-road SUV brand slated to be launched officially in Malaysia in the 1st half of 2024.
Jaecoo is a luxury sub-brand under China’s Chery, introduced just last year.
Malaysia will be the first in South-East Asia to launch the J7, following a global rollout in Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Central and South America.
“The Jaecoo brand was conceived based on insights about an emerging consumer group – fearless, trailblazers, ambitious individuals," said Jaecoo Malaysia president Leo Chen.
Jaecoo J7 to launch in Malaysia ahead of regional neighbours
Jaecoo J7 shows off off-road abilities
"After a great deal of research and analysis, we believe that Jaecoo will capture the attention of this new unconventional consumer group, which we call the new urban elite. They are young at heart, successful in their careers and in life. At the same time, they want to enjoy good quality of life and express their individuality through unique experiences.”
Jaecoo’s debut coincides with a growing demand for SUVs.
According to the Malaysia Automotive Association, SUVs comprised nearly 30% of the passenger vehicle market share in 2023, and that trend is expected to continue into 2024 and beyond.
The brand’s debut will be supported by a network of upcoming independent Jaecoo dealerships nationwide.
The J7, Jaecoo’s flagship model, is designed for superior engine performance, said to be equipped with best-in-class fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features.
It has a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol direct injection engine and a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, producing 145kW/197 PS and peak torque of 290Nm.
The SUV that looks like the Chinese version of the Range Rover also features creature comforts such as a 540-degree camera, 14.8 inch high-definition media display, Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The 540-degree camera is an advancement over the 360 degree camera and can see under the car as well, useful for when it goes offroad.
The public are invited to join the Jaecoo Premiere Experience and check out the J7 from March 9-17 (10am to 10pm) at The Waterfront, Park City.
Subsequently, the Jaecoo Premiere Experience will make its way throughout Malaysia as part of its nationwide roadshow. It will also be previewed at the following dates and locations:
Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur: March 19-23
One Utama, Petaling Jaya: April 10-14
Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur: April 25-28
Paradigm Mall, Johor Baru: May 15-19
