Jaecoo Malaysia has previewed the Jaecoo J8, its fourth model slated for launch in the country. Two variants will be offered: Jaecoo J8 Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) and Jaecoo J8 All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the latter being the headlining variant with a six-seater configuration featuring two captain chairs in the second row.
Measuring 4.82 metres long, 1.93 metres wide, and 1.71 metres tall, with a wheelbase of 2.82 metres, the Jaecoo J8 comes in as a D-segment SUV, measuring roughly in the same ballpark as the Mazda CX-8 and Kia Sorento.
The Jaecoo J8’s exterior design makes a bold impression, combining a large front grille and headlights that evoke both Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GLC styling cues. It also features flush-type door handles that extend outwards when the car is unlocked. At the rear, it sports a full-width tail light bar and twin (faux) exhaust pipes, a design element similar to the Omoda C9.
Interior-wise, the Jaecoo J8 currently on preview here in Malaysia is the AWD variant with a six-seater set up, in a 2-2-2 configuration. For access to the third row, there is a central walkway in the second row. Boot space is rated at 738 litres for the 2WD variant and 200 litres for the AWD variant. The latter figure is presumably with the third-row seats up.
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Powering the Jaecoo J8 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 249 hp and 385 Nm of torque. This is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which enables a 0-100 km/h sprint in 9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. Power is sent to either the front or all wheels.
In its home market in China, the Jaecoo J8 is also available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The Chinese Jaecoo J8 PHEV features a 1.5-litre engine with two electric motors and a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), delivering 605 hp and 915 Nm.
A full specifications breakdown is not available yet, but Jaecoo Malaysia says in its press release that the model will come with a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a 540-degree panoramic camera. The Jaecoo J8 2WD will be equipped with a 12-speaker Sony sound system, ambient lighting, and faux leather upholstery. The AWD variant meanwhile gets several upgrades, including a 14-speaker Sony Sound System that also includes headrest speakers, powered doors, and a fragrance system.
The AWD variant is also touted to include a ventilated driver’s seat and a built-in digital video recorder (DVR) and NFC (Near Field Communication) for key card entry. It is also equipped with the company’s Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system.
For colour options, the Jaecoo J8 2WD will be available in single-tone colour options: Carbon Crystal Black, Khaki White, and Olive Grey. The J8 AWD variant will offer the same colour options, but with a black roof for a two-tone look.
The Jaecoo J8 is now open for booking in Malaysia, at an estimated price of RM195,000 for the RWD variant, and the AWD variant around RM220,000. A launch should be happening within Q2 2025, so stay tuned for our local launch coverage!
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