MBABANE – Chinese SUV brand Jaecoo is preparing to introduce its long-awaited J8 model to Southern Africa before the end of the year, with Eswatini expected to be among the regional markets eyeing the luxury off-roader.
The J8, first shown to the public at the 2023 Shanghai International Auto Show under the name J9, has been positioned as Jaecoo’s flagship model. This follows its launch in Australia two months ago, where it entered the market as the second Jaecoo model after the J7.
Recent details confirmed by Jaecoo in Malaysia suggest the J8 could rival the upcoming Chery Tiggo 9 and Omoda C9, both of which are already lined up for launch in South Africa. The J8, based on the Tiggo 9 platform, comes in at 4 820 mm long and 1 930 mm wide with a wheelbase of 2 820 mm. It will offer multiple seating options, with South African distributors earlier hinting at a six-seater layout using second-row captain’s chairs.
The vehicle’s powertrain options include a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing up to 192kW/400Nm in some markets, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. There’s also growing speculation that Jaecoo may launch the J8 in the region under its Super Hybrid Series (SHS) banner.
If the hybrid model is introduced, it will feature a combined system of a turbocharged petrol engine and three electric motors powered by a 34.4kWh battery, delivering a combined 395kW/650Nm. The SHS variant boasts an electric-only range of 180 km and an overall range of 1 400 km, with a claimed 0–100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds.
Inside, the J8 is expected to offer a premium cabin experience, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, a 12-speaker Sony sound system, panoramic sunroof, massage seats, ambient lighting, wireless phone charging and a digital fragrance dispenser.
On the safety front, it includes a 540-degree camera system, 10 airbags, driver assist tech such as Auto Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Auto Park Assist. The all-wheel-drive versions also come with additional drive modes for off-road terrain.
Boot space ranges from 200 litres to over 2 000 litres depending on the seat configuration, making it a practical option for large families or business use.
While South African pricing and specifications are yet to be confirmed, the J8 has been launched in Malaysia between R754 000 and R838 000 (converted), and in Australia from R577 000 to R635 000 before taxes.
Local dealerships across the region, including Eswatini, are awaiting official confirmation on the arrival date and pricing structure.
Discussion about this post