JAECOO Launches Premium J7 PHEV SUV in Kota Kinabalu, Promises Range Up to 1,300KM
KOTA KINABALU, March 22 — JAECOO has officially launched its premium plug-in hybrid SUV, the J7 PHEV, at its 3S showroom in Kota Kinabalu, promising a remarkable driving range of up to 1,300 kilometers on a full tank and single charge — thanks to its state-of-the-art Super Hybrid System (SHS).
Universal Motor Group Managing Director, Datuk Chok Yun Kiong, said the J7 PHEV is a rugged premium SUV powered by three core SHS components: a 5th-generation 1.5L turbocharged direct injection petrol engine delivering 141 horsepower and 215Nm of torque; a specially designed single-speed hybrid transmission; and a high-capacity 18.3kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate Blade battery.
“The transmission allows the J7 PHEV to operate like a pure electric vehicle at low speeds or when idling, disconnecting the engine to enable zero-petrol movement. However, when power is needed, the electromagnetic clutch re-engages the engine to deliver torque to the front wheels, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in just 8.5 seconds,” said Chok during the launch event.
The SUV’s battery, rated at IP68 for dust and water resistance, is engineered for Malaysia’s extreme weather conditions — including heat and floods. It supports DC fast charging at 40kW, allowing a 30% to 80% charge in just 20 minutes. For home charging, an optional AC wallbox at 6.6kW charges the vehicle fully in under four hours.
With a best-in-class electric-only range of 106km (NEDC) and a fuel consumption of just 4.77L/100km when running on petrol alone, the J7 PHEV is designed to bridge the gap between conventional vehicles and full EVs — offering a practical alternative to EV skeptics.
“Malaysia’s energy transition in the automotive industry is ongoing, and many consumers remain cautious about the practicality and readiness of EVs. JAECOO addresses this by offering a smart middle ground with the J7 PHEV,” Chok added.
Visually, the J7 PHEV stands out with distinctive design features such as a striking two-tone Olive Grey finish, 19-inch Aero Rims, and concealed exhaust outlets. A standout feature is the unique “Cinema Tonneau Cover” — a reversible white-toned boot lid that doubles as a projection screen, powered by the SUV’s 3.3kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for outdoor movie or sports viewing.
The J7 PHEV is currently available in three colours: Khaki White (limited to 100 units in Malaysia), Carbon Crystal Black, and Moonlight Silver. Olive Grey will be introduced as an additional option soon.
Inside, JAECOO has streamlined the cabin with a sleek new gear selector mounted on the steering column. Drivers can choose to operate entirely in EV mode or let the vehicle intelligently switch between power sources depending on driving conditions — a first for any PHEV in its class.
In terms of safety, the J7 PHEV is equipped with Level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including eight airbags, Driver Monitoring System, Lane Departure Prevention, and Adaptive Cruise Control — setting a new benchmark in its segment.
Priced at RM163,250 (2WD variant), the J7 PHEV comes with a seven-year/150,000km engine warranty and an eight-year/160,000km warranty for the battery, electric motor, and power control unit. Notably, the battery warranty includes a 1-for-1 replacement if the state of health (SOH) falls below 70% within the coverage period.
For more information or to experience the J7 PHEV, customers can visit the Universal Jaecoo 3S showroom at Jalan Limau Manis, Kolombong, or visit www.jaecoo.com.my and follow JAECOO Malaysia on social media.
-Agency