What's the difference?
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.
Being a mid-size SUV means the MG HS Super Hybrid is placed in one of Australia’s most competitive segments.
The flagship Essence plug-in hybrid pairs family-friendly size with an efficient powertrain, promising efficiency without asking you to fully commit to electric life.
But when you’re up against some solid all-rounders in the market… does it do enough to earn a spot on your shortlist?
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.
The MG HS Super Hybrid Essence gets a lot right. It’s well sized for families, comfortable on the road and easy to live with day to day.
However, it misses a few features you might expect for a flagship grade. More notably, the calibration of some of its technology and safety systems could do with further refinement.