First Drive Review – Jaecoo J5.

Jaecoo J5

At the 2024 Omoda Jaecoo International User Summit, the spotlight shines brightly on the all-new Jaecoo J5.


This B-segment SUV crossover is a charming entry-level model that comes with loads of tech, style and thoughtful practicality.

The Jaecoo J5 bears a striking resemblance to its bigger siblings, particularly the J7, with its boxy SUV silhouette and eye-catching light signatures.

The front grille appears like a waterfall, cascading with vertical slats and flanked by modern rectangular LED headlights.

Move to the rear, and the sleek LED taillights echo the J7’s aesthetics, though without the trendy LED light bar.

Measuring 4,380 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, the J5 finds its footing alongside notable competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The inside is a well-appointed interior that showcases Jaecoo’s tech and luxury.

The highlight is a 13.2-inch portrait-oriented central infotainment screen that feeds occupants with all of the car’s vital information. Behind the leather-wrapped two-spoke steering wheel is a sleek digital instrument cluster that’s stylish and informative.

The two-tone faux leather upholstery, powered front seats, and a full panoramic sunroof add that touch of luxury that makes you feel special. All nice additions for a vehicle in this segment.

The J5’s rear cabin space is surprisingly generous, comfortably accommodating three adults. Dedicated USB charging ports and A/C vents add to overall comfort.

Out back, the Jaecoo J5 boasts 480 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,180 litres. And yes, it comes with a powered tailgate, plus enough room for a full-size spare wheel; a rarity these days!

We got to play around with the Jaecoo J5 on track in Wu Hu, China, tossing it around some obstacles.

The car performed amicably, with the peppy 1.6-litre 4-cylinder TGDi engine churning out a respectable 194hp and 290Nm of torque.

The car handled its bulk well in the corners, with manageable body roll and good steering feel. Safety features are aplenty on board, giving drivers more confidence in tricky or emergency situations.

Although, the one we wrung around was a 1.6-litre all-wheel drive variant. We’re told that Singapore will get two different variants – a 1.5-litre front-wheel drive plug-in hybrid, and an all-electric variant.

We did not test either of these variants on this trip, but from what we experienced in the test cars, it’s safe to say that the Jaecoo J5 will be a compelling SUV option for prospective buyers when it arrives on our shores later in 2025.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)


Check out more green rides here, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

Sean Loo

Futr's managing editor loves all things retro, even though he was born in the late 90s. Even though his main job encompasses tons of driving, he swears he turns off the lights each time he leaves his room.

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