The Jaecoo J5 EV is the latest addition to the growing market of affordable electric SUVs. Priced aggressively at $35,888 (before on-road costs), with a limited-time drive-away offer of $36,990 for the first 1,000 buyers, it directly challenges established competitors like the Leapmotor B10, BYD Atto 2, and Hyundai Kona Electric. While not the absolute cheapest option—the BYD Atto 2 remains the budget leader at $31,990—the J5 EV positions itself as a strong value proposition.
Powertrain and Performance
The J5 EV shares its platform with the Chery E5, utilizing a front-wheel-drive, single-motor configuration. Output is rated at 155kW, with 288Nm of torque (slightly less than the Chery E5’s 340Nm). The vehicle is powered by a 58.9kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Jaecoo claims a WLTP range of 402km, with energy consumption at 14.3kWh per 100km. DC fast charging from 30% to 80% is projected to take 28 minutes.
Interior and Practicality
Jaecoo markets the J5 EV as a family- and pet-friendly vehicle, highlighting its unique interior upholstery coated in a durable silicone material. The model will be available in a single trim level, but Jaecoo offers an extensive range of optional accessories, including pet-specific items like carriers, bowls, and mats.
Warranty and Servicing
The J5 EV is backed by an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty covering the high-voltage battery. Servicing is required every 12 months or 20,000km, with capped-price servicing available for eight years at a total cost of $1,520. Owners also receive free roadside assistance for up to eight years, provided they maintain service through Jaecoo’s dealer network.
Safety Features
Standard safety equipment includes seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, surround-view monitoring, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, blind-spot monitoring, and driver monitoring systems. Jaecoo is targeting a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, although testing has not yet been completed.
Standard Equipment
The J5 EV comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, electric folding mirrors, a glass roof, power tailgate, synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation, dual-zone climate control, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
Color Options
The standard color is Stone Grey. Premium options—Arctic White, Carbon Black, and Stormy Blue—are available at an additional cost.
The Jaecoo J5 EV presents a competitive option in the expanding electric SUV segment, offering a balance of price, range, and features. The emphasis on pet-friendliness and value-added services positions it uniquely within the market.
