Newcastle Weekly publisher Nicole Somerville reviews the Jaecoo J7.

What’s in a Name?

I always love a good back story and Jaecoo certainly has one. While it may be a new badge for Australian buyers, the name itself is designed to project confidence. It blends the German word Jäger meaning hunter, with the English word cool. And honestly, that feels like a pretty good description of the Jaecoo J7.

A New Player in the Market

I’ll admit, this is the first time I have regularly driven something this large. The Jaecoo J7 is a five-seat mid-size SUV, a category that continues to dominate Australian driveways, particularly for families wanting space, tech and exceptional value for money.

Jaecoo may be relatively new locally, but it is not easing its way in quietly.

The J7 range includes both petrol and hybrid models and comes backed by some very appealing ownership incentives, including eight years of capped price servicing.

As someone who firmly believes tyres, petrol and car servicing fall into the category of regret purchases, this is music to my ears.

Styling That Stands Apart

Let’s talk looks.

At a time when many SUVs seem locked in a battle to out bulk and out uglify one another, the J7 is refreshingly attractive. Its bold front grille makes a statement, but the clean, wedge-shaped styling keeps it refined.

It feels confident on the road without being overbearing. It has presence. But in a good way.

A Comfortable and Thoughtful Cabin

Inside is where I was genuinely impressed. Electric seat adjustment and a steering wheel that adjusts for both reach and height made it easy to find a comfortable driving position. As a tall lady who often feels like I am brushing the ceiling of smaller cars, this was a welcome change.

The cup holders are exactly where they should be. Two up front, one for each of us. Practical, simple and no awkward reaching. The wireless phone charger means no cables floating around.

And, yes, I may be late to the party, but this was my first time properly living with Apple CarPlay. Where have you been all my life?

The seats are comfortable enough for the daily Sandgate to Newcastle Weekly office run, but equally suited to a weekend trip up to The Bay or even a shopping dash to Sydney.

The interior design overall feels surprisingly upmarket, with satin alloy accents and glossy black finishes adding a polished touch.

The large sunroof adds another layer of enjoyment, letting in natural light and a welcome dose of Vitamin D.

City Runs to Wine Country

Under the bonnet, the 1.6 litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine delivers a well-judged balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

In real world terms, I did my usual routine.

Early mornings to radio at Sandgate, into the Newcastle Weekly office, meetings around town and even a trip out to the Hunter Valley. I filled up once in 10 days on a full tank. That, I have to say, is a dream.

The Verdict So Far

The Jaecoo J7 brings together sharp styling, a comfortable and well finished interior, and ownership incentives that make sense not just at purchase time, but down the track as well.

For a new player in the market, it feels considered, confident and surprisingly refined.

To test drive the Jaecoo J7, visit the friendly team at Kloster Omoda Jaecoo Newcastle.

• This month the price for the Jaecoo J7 starts from $39,990

For more lifestyle stories:

• Matt and Brett: Who’s coming to the cottage?
• Your guide to markets in our region
• Emma White: Leaping into wine

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