JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV: The Luxury Drive on Road

The JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV is a premium plug-in hybrid SUV that combines a 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering around 342-347 horsepower and 525 Nm of torque, plus up to 106 km of pure electric range (NEDC) from its 18.3 kWh battery. This setup offers a total combined range exceeding 1,200 km, blending luxury comfort with impressive efficiency at a competitive price.

Imagine gliding along a winding coastal road just outside Karachi, the sun dipping low, and the cabin so hushed you can hear the waves crashing below. No engine rumble, just the faint hum of tyres on tarmac and the premium Sony sound system playing your favourite playlist. That’s the moment I fell for the JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV. As someone who’s spent years behind the wheel of everything from German luxo-barges to Japanese hybrids, I wasn’t expecting a newcomer from Chery’s premium JAECOO brand to deliver this level of refined, luxurious on-road poise – especially in a plug-in hybrid SUV that’s just landed in markets like Pakistan.

Launched locally in late 2025 with an introductory ex-factory price around PKR 9,999,000 (now settled at PKR 10,499,000 for the Premium variant), the J7 SHS PHEV feels like it’s punching well above its weight. It’s positioned as a luxury drive on road, with the Super Hybrid System (SHS) promising seamless transitions between electric serenity and petrol punch. In a segment dominated by pricier options like the Hyundai Tucson PHEV or even the MG HS PHEV, the JAECOO J7 luxury SUV stands out for its upscale cabin, generous tech, and that effortless on-road performance that makes long drives feel indulgent rather than endurance tests.

I’ve logged hundreds of kilometres in it – city commutes in Lahore traffic, highway runs, and even some light off-road trails to test its all-road credentials. What struck me most is how it redefines what a premium Chinese SUV can be: quiet, comfortable, and surprisingly sophisticated, without the badge snobbery tax. If you’re hunting for the best PHEV SUV in 2026, especially in emerging markets like Pakistan where fuel costs bite and hybrid efficiency matters, this JAECOO J7 PHEV review will show why it’s a serious contender.

Exterior Design: The Premium Statement

The JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV cuts a bold, modern figure that turns heads without shouting. Its upright grille with vertical slats evokes a mini Range Rover vibe – a deliberate nod to luxury icons – flanked by sharp LED headlights that pierce the night with adaptive high-beam tech. The body lines are clean and muscular, with flared wheel arches housing 19-inch aero alloys that not only look premium but help efficiency.

From the side, the floating roof design and chrome accents add elegance, while the rear features full-width LED taillights for a contemporary touch. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s cohesive and upscale, especially in colours like Moonlight Silver or Carbon Crystal Black popular in Pakistan.

Compared to rivals, it outshines the boxier Haval H6 PHEV and feels more premium than the MG HS PHEV’s softer styling. As noted in reviews from high-authority sites, the design meets European legacy brand standards .

Interior & Luxury Features: A Cabin That Feels Truly Upscale

Step inside the JAECOO J7 interior, and you’re greeted by a cabin that punches hard in the luxury stakes. Soft-touch materials dominate the dash and doors, with perforated synthetic leather seats (heated and ventilated up front) that feel plush and supportive on long drives. The panoramic sunroof floods the space with light, making it feel airy and premium – a genuine luxury touch.

The 14.8-inch portrait touchscreen is a standout, responsive with sharp graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and voice controls (“Hello JAECOO”) that actually work for climate and windows. A 10.25-inch digital cluster and head-up display keep info in your line of sight. Rear passengers get ample legroom, dedicated vents, USB ports, and even heated seats in top trims.

Storage is thoughtful: cooled console box, wireless chargers, and big door bins. It’s family-friendly too, with easy ISOFix and a flat floor. While some lower plastics feel shiny, overall build quality is sturdy – better than expected at this price (Electrifying.com praises the clean, modern textiles).

In Pakistan’s heat, the ventilated seats and refrigerated cubby are godsends, elevating that luxury drive on road feel.

Powertrain & On-Road Performance: The Luxury Drive Experience

This is where the JAECOO J7 on road performance shines brightest – and the core of its “luxury drive” promise. The Super Hybrid System pairs a 1.5L turbo (105-141 kW) with a punchy electric motor (150-204 PS), delivering combined outputs of 342-347 HP and 525 Nm. Acceleration is brisk – 0-100 km/h in around 8.5 seconds – with seamless transitions that make it feel refined.

In EV mode (up to 106 km NEDC, realistic 80-90 km WLTP), it’s whisper-quiet, perfect for city gliding or highway cruising without waking passengers. Push harder, and the petrol engine kicks in smoothly, never intrusive unless floored. I loved winding roads where the torque fills in gaps effortlessly, and noise isolation is excellent – minimal wind or road roar even at 140 km/h.

Ride comfort is a highlight: compliant over bumps, with good highway stability. Steering is light for town but weights up nicely in Sport mode. It’s not a sports SUV – there’s some body lean in corners – but for luxury on-road performance, it’s composed and relaxing (BabyDrive calls it “really nice to drive” with quiet operation; Exhaust Notes Australia notes remarkable quietness).

In hybrid mode, real-world efficiency hit 3-4 L/100km in mixed driving, stretching to 1-2 L/100km with charging. Fast charging (30-80% in 20 minutes DC) adds practicality.

Technology, Safety & Practicality

Tech overload in the best way: 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise with traffic jam assist, blind-spot monitoring, and 17 ADAS features. Safety earns 5-star ratings with 8 airbags .

Boot space is 412-500L – adequate but rivals like Tucson offer more. Towing up to 1,500 kg. In Pakistan, local assembly means good parts availability and an 8-year battery warranty.

JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV Specs At a Glance

(Source synthesis: PakWheels; Omoda Jaecoo Australia)

Competitors Comparison: How It Stacks Up

Versus MG HS PHEV: J7 offers more power, better interior luxury, and similar pricing in Pakistan – edges ahead on refinement .

Vs Haval H6 PHEV: Similar value, but J7 feels more premium inside .

Vs BYD Sealion 6: Close on range, but J7 undercuts on price and tech .

Vs Hyundai Tucson PHEV: Tucson drives better dynamically, but J7 wins on value and equipment .

Vs Proton X70: Outdated by comparison – J7 is fresher and hybrid-efficient.

Pricing, Value & Ownership

In Pakistan, at ~PKR 10.5 million, it’s a steal for the spec – locally assembled for better affordability . Global markets see it around $45-50k AUD/GBP equivalent. Ownership perks: low running costs, strong warranty.

Verdict: Is the JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV Worth It?

Absolutely, if luxury on-road comfort, efficiency, and value top your list. It’s not the most engaging drive, and brand perception is still building, but for real-world luxury PHEV motoring – especially in Pakistan – it’s a standout.

The JAECOO J7 SHS PHEV redefines accessible luxury. That silent, effortless glide on road? It’s addictive. Test drive one – you might just find your next daily indulgence.