Jaecoo J7 updated with more powerful plug-in hybrids across the range

Jaecoo Australia has announced the updated MY27 version of its J7 medium SUV, available from later this month. Although it’s still offered with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine in Ridge AWD spec, the rest of the J7 range is now equipped with Jaecoo’s new-generation ‘SHS-P’ plug-in hybrid system making more power in its newly-optional all-wheel drive form.

Pricing for the MY27 J7 range starts at $39,990 driveaway for either the petrol Ridge or plug-in hybrid Track, which is $2000 higher than the MY26 J7 range due to the discontinuation of the front-wheel drive petrol models.

Nevertheless, some models in the range are now up to $3000 cheaper, such as the Ridge AWD ($39,990 driveaway – was $42,990 driveaway) and both 2WD plug-in hybrid models are priced $4000 lower than before.

Key to the updated Jaecoo J7 is Jaecoo’s next-generation SHS-P plug-in hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with either one (2WD) or two (AWD) e-motors and an 18.4kWh battery that can be DC fast charged at up to 40kW for a claimed 30-80 per cent top up in 20 minutes.

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Combined, the front-drive J7 SHS-P now makes 205kW/365Nm outputs and the all-wheel drive model 260kW/490Nm, and it can travel up to 80km (AWD) or 100km (2WD) on a charge. The total range, including petrol propulsion, of the J7 SHS-P is a claimed 1200km.

The J7 Ridge AWD’s 137kW/275Nm 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive system are unchanged.

As before, the Jaecoo J7 range will be offered in entry-level Track (PHEV only), mid-spec Ridge (petrol only) and top-spec Summit (PHEV only) models. Features on the Track include 19-inch ‘aero’ alloy wheels, a synthetic leather steering wheel, power-retracting door handles, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen with inbuilt sat-nav, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, eight airbags and a comprehensive suite of active safety features.

The Ridge AWD adds a full-size spare wheel, synthetic leather upholstery, electric front seat adjustment, heated and ventilated front seats, eight-speaker Sony audio, a larger 14.8-inch touchscreen, a head-up display, an inbuilt dashcam, power tailgate and panoramic sunroof.

Above the Ridge AWD, the PHEV-only Summit adds a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree camera and the second e-motor on the rear axle.

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As before, the Jaecoo J7 is covered by an eight-year/unlimited km warranty for both the car and EV battery, as well as eight years of roadside assistance and eight years of capped price servicing.

MY27 Jaecoo J7 pricing (driveaway):

The updated Jaecoo J7 Ridge and Summit models will enter local dealerships later this month, with the Track SHS-P following closely in October.