The J5 shares a strong family resemblance with its larger J7 sibling.
Image: Supplied
The new Jaecoo J5 is set to reach South African shores during the third quarter of this year, Omoda & Jaecoo SA has confirmed.
The company says the newcomer will bring the Jaecoo brand within reach of South Africans seeking a “premium SUV experience” at a more accessible price point.
The new J5 bears a strong resemblance to its larger J7 sibling, which itself has been praised for its elegant exterior lines, which many have equated to Range Rover models such as the Velar.
Pricing has yet to be divulged, but we do know that it will slot beneath the J7, which currently starts at R549,900.
Given that the similarly-sized and technically related Chery Tiggo Cross sells for between R399,900 and R449,900, it’s likely that the majority of the J5 line-up will fall beneath the R500,000 mark.
Jaecoo has confirmed that local J5 models will be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 115kW and 230Nm.
Smooth lines define the new J5.
Image: Supplied
It will be paired with a CVT gearbox and the vehicle will have various selectable drive modes, including ‘Normal’, ‘Eco’ and ‘Sport’.
While in some overseas markets the J5 is offered with the J7’s 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine, this is not known to be in the pipeline for South Africa, likely for cost reasons.
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The local range is however, expected to grow to include plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants at a later stage.
The interior boasts a best-in-class 13.2-inch vertical touchscreen with smart navigation, and wireless charging, while the optional panoramic sunroof is said to be the largest in the segment.
Detailed local specifications have yet to be released, but O&J SA says it will be offered with options such as ventilated leather seats, automatic climate control and ambient lighting.
Driver-assist features include adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection, among others.
“With its advanced safety features, versatility, and refined interior, the new J5 is designed to meet the needs of modern South Africans who want more from their daily drive,” said O&J SA’s brand and marketing manager Shannon Gahagan.
An interesting fact about the J5 is that it was purpose-designed for pet lovers.
Its specially extended seats were designed with pets in mind, while the air conditioning system has a powerful filtration system that can isolate pet hair.
Overseas, it is also offered with specially designed boarding steps and a pet feeding system, although it’s not clear whether these features will be offered locally.
South African details, including pricing, will be released closer to launch.
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