Behind the wheel: Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno

There’s a fresh breeze blowing through the South African motoring landscape, and it carries the name Jaecoo. While still a newcomer to our shores, Jaecoo is quickly carving out its niche with vehicles that are not only innovative but also strikingly attractive. Enter the Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno – a bold attempt to light a fire in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment.

Hot stuff in the looks department

From the moment I laid eyes on the Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno, I knew this wasn’t your run-of-the-mill SUV. It’s a symphony of sharp lines, muscular proportions, and sophisticated detailing. At the front, a bold grille dominates, framed by sleek LED headlights that wouldn’t look out of place on a luxury European SUV. The Inferno badging adds a touch of flair, and the chunky bumper design hints at off-road capability without losing its urban appeal.

The side profile continues the drama with 19-inch alloy wheels and a character line that sweeps upward, giving it an athletic stance. Black cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels adds to its ruggedness, while the roof rails and a panoramic sunroof complete the lifestyle look. From the rear, the J7 is equally striking, with connected LED taillights and dual exhaust tips that promise more than just practicality.

A modern sanctuary inside

Climbing into the Inferno for the first time felt like stepping into a premium lounge. Jaecoo has clearly paid attention to detail, with soft-touch materials, a mix of textures, and ambient lighting that set a calming mood. The wraparound dashboard integrates seamlessly into the door panels, creating a cocoon-like effect for the driver.

The centrepiece of the interior is the massive 14-inch infotainment screen. It dominates the dash, and I found the system surprisingly intuitive to use. Whether using wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or the built-in navigation system with off-road maps, everything works seamlessly. Beneath the screen, touch-sensitive climate controls added a futuristic vibe, though they took some getting used to on the move.

The seats are another highlight. Upholstered in perforated leather with contrast stitching, they don’t just look good – they’re supremely comfortable. I was particularly impressed with the heating and ventilation functions, and the massage function was a game-changer in my book.

Space inside is generous, with ample legroom and headroom for a family of five. The 520-litre boot proved more than capable of swallowing a generous number of shopping bags and I’m sure it will have no problem with a weekend’s worth of luggage and outdoor gear.

Packed with tech features

Jaecoo hasn’t held back on tech with the J7 Inferno. One of my favourite features is the 360-degree camera system. It offered clear visuals even in tricky conditions, making parking a breeze. Adaptive cruise control worked like a charm on the highway, while the head-up display kept crucial information within easy view.

The premium sound system deserves a special mention – the audio quality is consistently excellent. Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot function keep all devices charged and connected throughout the drive. On the safety front, features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking will give you confidence behind the wheel.

Fire in the engine bay

Under the bonnet, the Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 170kW and 350Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox, it sends power to all four wheels via an intelligent AWD system.

Out on the road, the Inferno lived up to its name. Acceleration was brisk, with a 0-100km/h time of 8.5 seconds that felt plenty spirited for a vehicle of its size. The suspension struck a good balance, offering a smooth ride over bumps while keeping body roll in check around corners. Steering was light enough for city driving but gave decent feedback on twisty roads.

Although the J7 is more soft-roader than hardcore off-roader, its multiple driving modes (Sand, Mud, and Snow) come in very handy on gravel tracks. The 210mm ground clearance and capable AWD system also instil confidence when you venture off the tar.

Switching to Sport mode unleashes the engine’s fiery personality. The throttle response sharpens, and the growl from under the bonnet adds a thrilling edge to the drive. The Inferno truly lives up to its name, delivering a driving experience that’s as dynamic as it is enjoyable.

The Jaecoo journey in South Africa

Jaecoo may be a fresh face in South Africa, but it’s making a strong impression. The brand’s strategy of offering well-specced, competitively priced vehicles is paying off. The J7 AWD Inferno is a shining example of this approach, combining bold styling, luxurious features, and excellent value.

Since its local debut, Jaecoo has been steadily building a loyal following. Its focus on quality, innovation, and after-sales support is setting it apart from competitors. The comprehensive warranty and service plan included with the Inferno only add to its appeal, offering buyers peace of mind in a tough economic climate.

The verdict

The Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno is more than just another mid-size SUV – it’s a statement. From its bold exterior and premium interior to its tech-packed feature set and capable performance, it stands out in a crowded market. While there’s room for refinement (those touch-sensitive controls, for example), the overall package is hard to fault.

If you’re looking for a stylish, well-equipped SUV that’s equally at home on city streets and gravel trails, the J7 AWD Inferno deserves a spot on your shortlist. With this fiery contender, Jaecoo has ignited a spark that promises to burn brightly in South Africa.

Model line-up & pricing

  • Jaecoo J7 AWD Inferno: R629 900
  • Jaecoo J7 4×2 Luxury: R589 900

*All Jaecoo models come standard with a 5-year/150 000km warranty and a 5-year/60 000km service plan, as well as roadside assistance.

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