Sleek Like Tesla, Refined Like Mercedes: Meet the J7 PHEV

Performance and Efficiency
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV has arrived in Malaysia with a price tag of RM158,800, making it one of the most affordable plug-in hybrids available today. It is powered by a Super Hybrid System combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with a 204 PS electric motor and a single-speed DHT transmission, producing a total of 347 PS and 525 Nm of torque. This allows it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds, quicker than the petrol-only J7. The plug-in hybrid offers an EV range of 88 km (WLTP) and a total range of up to 1,300 km, with fuel consumption as low as 4.77 L/100 km. Real-world drives have proven even more efficient, averaging 3.8 L/100 km on long trips.

Tyre and Wheel Difference

One key distinction between the PHEV and the standard J7 lies in the tyres. The normal J7 is fitted with Michelin Primacy SUV tyres designed for comfort and efficiency, while the J7 PHEV receives Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyres, a sportier option that provides stronger grip, improved handling, and better performance in both wet and dry conditions. This choice aligns with the PHEV’s higher power output and ensures the driving dynamics match its upgraded performance. The wheel design is also slightly different, with a sportier finish that further distinguishes the plug-in variant from its petrol counterpart.

Interior and Cabin Design

Inside, the J7 PHEV adopts a digital-heavy, minimalist cabin influenced by Tesla and Mercedes. A 14.8-inch vertical infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster dominate the dashboard, creating a futuristic cockpit.

Like Tesla, the car replaces the bulky gear lever and rotary selector with a steering-column stalk, freeing up the center console for a cleaner layout. Yet, Jaecoo avoids the drawbacks of a fully buttonless setup by following Mercedes’s approach, offering tactile buttons for EV and hybrid modes along with more refined door panel finishes. The mirror controls are now integrated into the digital menus, emphasizing the shift to a screen-based UX.

Tesla and Mercedes Influence
The J7 PHEV’s ambience balances Tesla’s sleek, digital minimalism with Mercedes’s emphasis on comfort and refinement. Soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and subtle premium details create a luxurious feel, while the minimalist dashboard highlights its tech-focused personality. Unlike Tesla’s near-total reliance on touchscreens, Jaecoo maintains physical controls for key functions, ensuring usability and safety. This makes the user experience futuristic but practical for everyday driving.

Convenience and Technology

The PHEV is generously equipped with features such as wireless Apple CarPlay, a Sony eight-speaker audio system, a head-up display, 360-degree cameras, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability at 3.3 kW for powering external devices. A unique addition is the “Cinema Tonneau Cover,” which doubles as a projector screen, blending practicality with lifestyle luxury.

Verdict
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV successfully blends efficiency, performance, and design innovation. It embraces Tesla’s minimalist digital approach while incorporating Mercedes’s premium craftsmanship, creating a user experience that feels modern yet grounded. With its stronger tyres, better grip, and enhanced driving dynamics, the PHEV not only outperforms the standard J7 but also offers more confidence on the road. For buyers seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV under RM160k that delivers long range, premium features, and a refined yet tech-driven interior, the J7 PHEV is one of the most compelling options available.