Jaecoo confirms J8 7-seat SHS pricing and specification

The Jaecoo J8 Summit SHS is a large seven-seat SUV built around a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a comfort-focused cabin. Its combination of three rows, substantial luggage flexibility and electric-assisted all-wheel drive gives it a broad spread of capability, while the interior equipment is aimed at making longer journeys more relaxed for every occupant.

With the third row in use, the J8 provides 200 litres of VDA luggage capacity. Folding the rearmost seats flat increases that figure to 738 litres, making the cabin more adaptable when passenger space is not required. The seven-seat layout is the defining practical feature, giving the J8 the ability to carry a larger group without abandoning the elevated driving position and generous footprint associated with a large SUV.

The SHS powertrain pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with three electric motors: two driving the front wheels and one powering the rear axle. Total system output is quoted at 315kW and 580Nm, with the front wheels receiving power through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. The electric rear drive motor provides all-wheel-drive capability without a conventional mechanical propeller shaft, while the hybrid system is designed to balance performance with reduced reliance on petrol power.

A 34kWh battery allows up to 169km of NEDC-rated electric driving without charging, while the claimed overall driving range exceeds 1,000km. DC charging is supported at up to 70kW. For owners who need to tow, the J8 is rated for up to 750kg with an unbraked trailer and 1,600kg with a braked trailer.

The Summit specification places considerable emphasis on quietness and seating comfort. Quilted leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats and a massage function give the first row a more lounge-like character, while acoustic glass in the windscreen is intended to help reduce intrusion into the cabin. Second-row window shades add privacy and glare protection for passengers in the middle row.

Technology is centred on dual 12.3-inch LCD displays, a head-up display and wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 14-speaker Sony audio system includes speakers integrated into the driver's seat headrest, and a 50W wireless charger provides a convenient way to keep compatible devices powered. The built-in fragrance system, colour-selectable ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof with powered sunshade further reinforce the J8's focus on a more refined cabin environment.

Exterior equipment includes projector-style LED headlights with daytime running lights, power-retracting door handles, 20-inch alloy wheels, puddle lights and a powered tailgate. Available exterior colours are Arctic White, Carbon Black, Ocean Blue and Iridium Silver. The rounded interpretation of the waterfall grille and full-width rear lighting give the J8 a distinctive visual identity without compromising its practical five-door SUV shape.

Safety equipment includes 10 airbags, a 360-degree around-view monitor and a suite of driver-assistance systems. Autonomous emergency braking, emergency lane keeping, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning are included, providing support across urban traffic, highway travel and manoeuvring in confined spaces.

• Seven-seat large SUV with flexible 200- to 738-litre luggage capacity
• 315kW/580Nm plug-in hybrid system with all-wheel drive
• Up to 169km NEDC electric driving range and more than 1,000km total range
• 34kWh battery with DC charging capability up to 70kW
• 1,600kg braked towing capacity
• Quilted leather seats with heated, ventilated and massage-equipped front seats
• Panoramic sunroof, dual 12.3-inch displays and head-up display
• 10 airbags, 360-degree camera and advanced driver-assistance systems

Other highlights include Powertrain: Petrol hybrid; Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (3DHT); Engine or motor: 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine; 105kW/215Nm.