Fuel-sipping Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid arrives in Mzansi
The J7 has been available as a 1.6 petrol turbo model with front wheel drive and outputs of 145kW and 290Nm.
SHS is short for Super Hybrid System and combines a turbocharged 1.5 l petrol engine and an electric motor. The total outputs of 255kW and 525Nm are sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
A dedicated hybrid transmission drives the wheels with different modes and is able to control the balance between energy consumption and performance. Jaecoo claims the vehicle sips only 5 l /100km and has 90km of pure electric drive range, and has a 1,200km combined driving range on a single tank with a fully charged battery.
In my week-long test drive on a mix of urban and open roads, the J7 SHS averaged 5.2 l /100km, which was very close to the factory claim and an impressively low figure for a car of this size and power.
The 18.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery can be charged from 30% to 80% in only 20 minutes using a DC fast charger. It takes about two-and-a-half hours to charge at an AC public charger, or overnight on a regular 240V home socket.
When fully charged the battery initially drained quickly, but once it got down to about 30% the car's energy recuperation system kept it at around that level, meaning we didn't have to plug it in to charge it.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
9 hours ago
- The Citizen
Chery Tiggo 7 plug-in hybrid ready to shock the SUV segment
Sprints from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.4 seconds and won't break the bank at the pumps. Chery made big noise about its hybrid technology at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. After spending some quality time in two of the Chinese carmaker's new energy offerings, we understand Chery's sentiment. Along with the Tiggo Cross self-charging hybrid, Chery last month rolled out the Tiggo 7 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) locally. Two PHEV models head the revised Tiggo 7 line-up, which has dropped the Pro and Pro Max monikers from before. We recently had the Tiggo 7 Plus CSH, short for Chery Super Hybrid, on test. The Plus at R619 900 slots in underneath the R679 900 Ultra CSH and are marked down a full R20 000 as an introductory special offer. And even better, it still includes comprehensive after sales backing which features a 10-year/unlimited mileage battery warranty. ALSO READ: Hybrid warfare as Chery Tiggo 7 takes swipe at Jaecoo J7 Performance-like power Apart from the price, the standout feature of the PHEV model is its power outputs. Numbers so impressive that it will qualify as a performance offering in many other stables. The manufacturer's familiar 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine teams up with an 18.3kWh battery hooked up to a single electric motor to form the CSH setup. Together they produce a total of 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque. This is a significant power bump from the 145kW/290Nm produced by the 1.6-litre blown mill model. Even better than the extra oomph is the difference the single-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) makes compared to any other gearbox Chery has to offer. The DHT means the typical Chinese throttle calibration issues are all out the window, with the power delivery being buttery smooth. The steering is a bit light, but still better than what the Tiggo Cross hybrid feels like. ALSO READ: Newly facelifted Chery Tiggo 7 range priced with more features Throttle calibration issues sorted Chery claims the Tiggo 7 CSH will sprint from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 5.4 seconds and we have no reason to doubt them. The torque is so instantaneous when flooring the accelerator, that it behaves much more like a fully electric car than anything mechanical burdened by turbo lag. The Chery Tiggo 7 Plus CSH rides on 18-inch alloys. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe The twist is routed to the front wheels as Chery do not offer the hybrids as – or any Tiggo 7 for that metter – with all-wheel drive anymore. When you flatten the accelerator, the amount of torque on the front wheels is so great that it leads to wheelspin on any surface with the slightest tinge of dust about it. The Chery Tiggo 7 plug-in hybrid's claimed electric range is 93km. Some logistical issues meant that The Citizen Motoring were unable to charge the car at home or a DC fast charger to put this claim to the test. It did however give us a chance to observe the intricacies of the hybrid system. Chery Tiggo 7's clever system Unlike some brands' PHEV technology, the CSH system does not allow the battery to run flatter than 20%, which is very similar to the BYD Shark bakkie. The engine, along with power restored by regenerative braking, keeps the battery level around the 20% mark. In other words, it then functions like a self-charging hybrid, sans the benefit of a pure electric range. We were unable to determine the accumulated consumption for the car's weeklong stay, but a trip-by-trip readout never exceeded 6.4 litres per 100km, with 5.4L/100km being the lowest. This would indicate that Chery's claimed range of 1 200km with a full tank and full charge is within reach. In terms of styling, the Chery Tiggo 7 CSH adopts the upgrades that have been applied to the entire range. The front end now features a diamond-studded chrome grille and revised LED headlights. We really like the new rear styling, which is a lot more authoritative with its muscular lines. Loads of space and tech Inside, the CSH is as plush and comfortable as we have become used to over the years. Two 12.3-screens features on the dash which is rounded off by the generous use of leather, faux carbon, brushed chrome and veneer. The light emitted through the 1.1 square metre panoramic roof makes the already generous space in the cabin look even bigger. The Chery Tiggo 7 has two 12.3-inch screens. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe The infotainment system features six speakers and is geared with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also features the 'Hello Chery' voice assistant and 540-degree camera. There is also a 50W wirelessly charging tray and multiple Type-C USB ports. One feature that will take getting used to is the absence of a push start button. You can't help yourself looking for the button before realising that there isn't one. Once inside, you simply put it in gear and off you go. Providing your seat belt is fastened of course. Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV guns for glory Boot space is rated at 626 litres, with plenty of leg and headroom in the second row. The Chery Tiggo 7 Plus CSH comes standard with front and rear parking sensors and six airbags. Advanced safety systems include blind-spot monitoring, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert. Chery has been hurting the heritage brands in the C-SUV segment and will continue to do that pridct like this. No buyer in this segment can ignore the attractive pricing and the comprehensive package that comes along with it.
The Citizen
13 hours ago
- The Citizen
Returning MG means business with ‘simplified' range-topping HS
Chinese-owned British brand's top-spec SUV doesn't overcomplicate, but will have a tough battle against legacy brand offerings, as well as those from its fellow countrymen. The return of MG to South Africa last year came with a degree of surprise after its less-than-stellar previous market entry under the auspices of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH). From down to the very top Bought, along with Rover, from the defunct Phoenix Consortium in 2005 by Nanjing Automobile, which then became part of Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC Motor) two years later, the line-up of the 3 hatch and 6 sedan failed to attract the same attention as the ZR and the terminally aged TF did under MG Rover South Africa. Reinvented by SAIC since then to become a top 10 selling brand in the United Kingdom and Australia, Morris Garages' third entry into the local market tapered off significantly until the Simola Hillclimb in April. NOW READ: MG HS declares war on fellow Chinese brands Chery and Haval Aside from the dramatic all-electric Cyberster that harks the closest back to its sports car roots, the brand also teased the new generation 3 in hybrid form ahead of its imminent arrival. For the time being, its main bread-and-butter comes from two SUV, the entry-level ZS and the subject of this test, the range-topping HS. Cracking the segment Currently in its second generation having debuted last year, the HS enters a congested market segment flooded by products from its countrymen, as well as legacy brands such as Toyota, Volkswagen, Kia, Hyundai and Mazda. The latest Chinese product to enter the premium space, the arrival of the flagship HS Luxury for the weeklong stay raised more questions than answers pertaining not only to the change in products from the People's Republic becoming upmarket and no longer perceived as bargains, but its unique selling point compared to its opposition. Styling, sorted Finished in a slightly underwhelming colour called Sterling Silver, the HS still strikes an impression on first glance. Rear facia design has elements from the Audi Q8. Appearing subtly evil with a wraparound honeycomb grille, outstretched bonnet and elongated LED headlights seemingly derived from the Volkswagen Lamando – coincidentally made by Wolfsburg through its joint venture with SAIC – the HS' pose goes further with a side profile similar from some angles to the Jaguar F-Pace. Mounted on 19-inch alloy wheels, the rear appears more compact with an upwards moving lower glasshouse, and an indented look to the slimline LED light clusters connected by a full-width light bar. Flagship HS Luxury rides on 19-inch alloy wheels. Reminiscent of the Audi Q8, the HS sticks to its premium aspiration by being eye-catching and stylish, yet despite its malevolent finish, arguably not as distinctive as some of its countrymen. Interior not over-the-top The same applies to the interior, which is, once again, a traditional Chinese affair dominated by a pair of 12.3-inch displays on top of the dashboard, physical shortcut buttons for select functions below the infotainment display, and generally soft-touch materials. Interior conforms to the minimalistic design approach, but without going overboard on the tech front. Incorporating MG's take on minimalist interior design, the HS retains a traditional gear lever, though the non-floating centre console, which includes a pair of cupholders and a wireless smartphone charging pad, will require constant upkeep due to its piano key black finish. Solid in feel, built quality-wise, and sporty thanks to the red stitch work, the HS' imitation leather seats offer more than sufficient support as, aside from being comfortable, feature heating and electric adjustment. Despite appearing dated on the graphics front, the infotainment isn't a disaster or minefield to use. In a significant departure from other Chinese products, the HS' seats drop all the way to the bottom, thus providing a clear view of the instrument cluster and not akin to 'sitting above' the steering wheel as in a light truck. What's more, the infotainment system lacks the series' of sub-menus and while comparatively low-tech on the graphics front, works reasonably slick in addition to being Apple CarPlay compatible, but not Android Auto which required the use of a third-party dongle plugged into the USB port. Front seats are comfort-focused and feature electric adjustment, as well as heating. Less of a success was the delayed reaction of the oddly shaped, but still physical, volume button on the steering wheel, the quality of the eight-speaker sound system, and the infotainment being the interface for the dual-zone climate control. Practicality and spec Winning back ground, space in the rear leaves little to be desired as, apart from legroom, the standard panoramic sunroof doesn't encroach on headroom. Boot space is impressive at 507-litres. At the same time, practicality doesn't disappoint either, as opening the electric tailgate reveals a substantial 507-litre boot that increases to 1 484-litres with the 60/40 split rear seat folded. In Luxury spec, the HS' list of specification items, aside from those mentioned, includes keyless entry and push-button start, rain sense wipers, folding heated mirrors and four USB ports. Dropping the rear seats unlocks a total of 1 484-litres. On the safety and driver assistance side, MG has left little to chance, though with the option of having most of the systems switched off completely until being reactivated by the driver and 'lost' each time the engine is shut down. Applicable also to the Driver Attention Alert module, mounted awkwardly on the A-pillar, the HS Luxury's suite of systems comprises; Rear passenger space lacks for little on both leg-and-headroom fronts. seven airbags; tyre pressure monitor; front and rear parking sensors; 360-degree surround-view camera system; traction control; Auto High Beam Assist; Adaptive Cruise Control; Croner Brake Control; Electronic Stability Control; Hill Hold Control; Front and Rear Collision Warning; Blind Spot Monitoring; Lane Keep Assist; Lane Departure Warning; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; Reverse Automatic Braking; Lane Change Assist On the move Up front, another familiarity resides in the use of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Set to be joined later by a more powerful 2.0-litre unit, power is rated at 125 kW and torque at 275 Nm, predictably directed to the front wheels only. Vocal, with the noise being audible even at the national limit, the engine feels laggy low-down, yet isn't hobbled by the now infamous Chinese vehicle throttle calibration and transmission mismatch. While, admittedly, still not fully rectified, the combination is more sorted and once up to speed with the initial lag gone, the HS is responsive despite tipping the scales at a rather heavy 1 602 kg. That being sad, the transmission does become flustered when asked to suddenly shift down, highlighting the need for paddle shifters, however, it thankfully lacks the typical dual-clutch 'box drag at low speeds. On the ride front, the HS offers a compliant, comfortable and well dampened setup, but with another equally familiar Chinese vehicle foible of an overly electric and lifeless steering feel. Providing the biggest surprise was fuel consumption, which, after seven days and 330 km, displayed a best of 7.7 L/100 km on the instrument cluster in mixed driving conditions. Conclusion As much as it doesn't set a new benchmark for premium Chinese SUVs, the MG HS is an honest entrant that doesn't do anything spectacularly good, nor untowardly bad. Comparable to the GAC Emkoo, it doesn't go overboard on the tech front and makes being an uncomplicated, well-equipped and practical SUV its main focus points. Priced at R534 900, or R499 900 in the case of the Comfort that loses a few nice-to-haves, the HS 1.5T Luxury represents a compelling buy in a fiercely competitive segment. However, an unproven track record of the 'new MG' and safe bet of other legacy or proven Chinese brands could well relegate it to a niche player. As such, only time will tell. NOW READ: Prices revealed as MG officially relaunches in South Africa
The Citizen
a day ago
- The Citizen
Denza's expansion: Two additional models South Africa could get
For the moment, only one model as been confirmed, however, a likely expansion could potentially bring the brand's flagship MPV and SUV. Its arrival in South Africa taking place next year, BYD-owned Denza will become the 15th Chinese brand to have a presence in the local market. Joining a growing list Debuting in early 2026 with the B5, a rebadged version of its Fangchengbao brand's Bao 5 SUV based on the same platform as the BYD Shark bakkie, the debut of Denza will follow those of its parent company, as well as the current marques from the People's Republic: BAIC; Chery; Dayun; Dongfeng; Foton; GAC; GWM Haval; JAC; Jaecoo; Jetour; LDV; MG; Omoda In addition, further arrivals from Changan and Deepal, as well as the pending return of Geely and JMC will bump the number to 19 before the end of the year. Arriving next A joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz started 15-years ago, but wholly owned by BYD since last year, the global Denza range consists of five products motivated either by a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or all-electric powertrain. ALSO READ: Speculation over: BYD-owned Denza coming to South Africa In addition to the Fangchengbao Bao 8 possibly making landfall as the Denza B8 to rival the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Fortuner, Ford Everest, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Isuzu MU-X and Mahindra Scorpio-N as well, in-house Denza options could include the PHEV versions of the D9 MPV and the N9 SUV. As a result of BYD marketing the Seal locally, the Z9 sedan and its Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo-inspired Z9 GT fastback estate are not expected to be offered, with the same likely to apply to the all-electric N7 crossover. D9 The oldest model's in Denza's product range having debuted three years ago, the Kia Carnival-rivalling D9 comes in both PHEV and electric guises, with the former presenting the best option in the case of sales being approved for South Africa. On-sale since the end of last year in Thailand, thus making it available with right-hand-drive, the D9 has measurements of 5 250 mm in overall length, a wheelbase of 3 110 mm, height of 1 920 mm and width of 1 950 mm. The recipient of a mid-life refresh last year in preparation for its Thai debut, the D9, in China, comes with seven seats, however, an ultra-luxurious four-seater, called the Pioneer, can be had in which the centre row makes way for a bulkhead partition with an integrated screen. If approved for South Africa, the D9 will take aim at the Kia Carnival. In addition, a console separates the pair of captain's style chairs, complete with an integrated tablet-style display, storage areas and an upper cooled storage hold. The seats themselves, meanwhile, are electric and feature ventilation, heating and massaging functions. Based on BYD's DM-i platform made specifically for plug-in hybrids, the D9's choice of powerunits comprises two options, both modelled around a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine. Interior is headlined by no less than three displays. Image: Denza China In the first instance, the petrol's 102 kW is backed-up by a 20.3-kWh Blade battery pack powering a single 170 kW electric motor. Combined, the system produces 221 kW and allows for an all-electric range of 103 km based on China's CLTC measurements. Unofficially called the 'long range' option, the second variant involves a 40-kWh battery with the same electric motor and outputs, but an EV-only range of 200 km. Top-spec Pioneer comes standard with four seats and a massive rear display integrated into a partition behind the front seats. Image: Denza China Combined with the petrol engine, the 'long range' has a claimed distance of 1 050 km versus the 'standard's' 970 km. Serving as the range's flagship, the all-wheel-drive D9 adds a second 45 kW electric motor to the front axle for a total output of 299 kW. The claimed electric range is 180 km and the combined, 980 km. Pricing in China kicks-off at 339 800 yuan, which amounts to R852 594 when directly converted. N9 Revealed as the end of last year as its flagship SUV, the N9 not only serves as Denza's flagship SUV, but also its most powerful plug-in hybrid product. Utilising a 2-2-2 seating arrangement, in addition to being inclusive of BYD's latest LiDAR system, the N9 rides on its parent company's latest e-Platform 3.0 with dimensions of 5 258 mm in length, a wheelbase of 3 125 mm, width of 2 030 mm and height of 1 830 mm. Reportedly equipped with a crab walking function as well as a tank turn-style, up front, N9 combines BYD's 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 46.9-kWh Blade battery powering no less than electric motors. In total, this amounts to 680 kW, a reported top speed of 230 km/h, according to and an electric-only range of 202 km. The combined is 1 302 km. On the spec front, and depending on the trim level, the N9 sports a Head-Up Display projected onto the windscreen, a 26-speaker sound system, a BMW 7 Series-style 17.3-inch flip-down screen, refrigerated second-row centre console, a 3.2 m3 panoramic glass roof, electric, cooled, heated and massaging second-row, and Nappa leather upholstery. As standard, Denza has fitted the N9 with three displays; a 13.2-inch instrument cluster, a 17.3-inch infotainment and a 13.2-inch on the passenger side. For the moment, neither the mentioned models have received approval and as mentioned, expect final confirmation to only emerge at the end of the year or before Denza's official product launch next year. NOW READ: What next from BYD? Three more products coming to South Africa
