Jaecoo J8 vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?

Jaecoo J8

$27,999 - $53,990

2025 price

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Hyundai Staria

$47,740 - $73,740

2026 price

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Summary

2025 Jaecoo J8

2026 Hyundai Staria

By Dom Tripolone

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Turbo 4, 1.6L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

8.3L/100km (combined)

6.5L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Nice price
Premium cabin
Long warranty

Hybrid performance & economy
One-tonne-plus payload
ANCAP safety rating

Dislikes

So-so drive
Servicing kinda expensive
No hybrid

No tow rating
Cargo load volume
Cabin noise at highway speeds

2025 Jaecoo J8 Summary

The Jaecoo J8 is an odd car.

It’s hard to place exactly where it sits in the market. It’s premium, but very affordable. It's very big but only has five seats. And it’s petrol only, at least for now, in a world that is obsessed with hybrid or electric power.

You’ve probably never heard of Jaecoo. That’s alright it’s only new, but it’s a fresh Chinese brand with big ambitions. A more accurate description is it’s Chery’s premium sub-brand.

And the J8 is its new flagship SUV that has found a little niche that's been left in Australia’s overflowing SUV segment.

It’s about the same size as the Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe family SUVs, but the J8 is five seats only and ditches the third row for a big boot.

The interior wouldn’t look out of place if it had a three-pointed star on the bonnet but the price tag will have you thinking you can buy two for the price of one.

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2026 Hyundai Staria Summary

Hyundai has recently launched an updated Staria Load range, with the most significant addition for buyers of mid-size (2.5 tonne-3.5 tonne GVM) commercial vans being the first-time availability of a hybrid drivetrain.

On paper this new HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) option brings numerous advantages over its diesel sibling, so we recently spent a week at the wheel to see if they are sufficient to win over traditional diesel van buyers.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Jaecoo J8 2026 Hyundai Staria

Verdict

It is hard to argue with the sheer amount of stuff you get in the J8 for the price. And that long warranty and capped price servicing program remove the stress of buying into a new brand.

The J8 might be more car than most people need due to its size and lack of third row seating.

It’s okay to drive but isn’t class leading and no hybrid option will count it out for the ever increasing number of Aussies looking to petrol-electric power.

The J8 is a solid machine and well worth a look if you are after glitz and glamour on a budget.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.

Verdict

The Staria Load HEV offers numerous advantages over its diesel equivalent including superior fuel economy, lower exhaust emissions, higher power output and a bigger payload. However, it also has a higher purchase price and no tow rating, so careful analysis of your specific work requirements will determine if Hyundai’s new hybrid van is fit for purpose.

Jaecoo J8 vs Hyundai Staria What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Jaecoo J8 vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?