The compact crossover segment is set to welcome a bold new contender as the Jaecoo 5 gears up for its UK debut at next week’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. Positioned to rival the Range Rover Evoque, the Jaecoo 5 marks the latest push by Chinese automaker Chery into the European market, expanding the presence of its premium offshoot, Jaecoo.
The Jaecoo 5 will become the second model in the brand’s line-up, following in the footsteps of the larger Jaecoo 7, which has already found early success in the UK with nearly 6,000 units sold since its launch earlier this year.
Built on the same T1X platform as the Jaecoo 7 and models from sibling brand Omoda – including the Omoda 5, 7, 9, and the newly unveiled 3 – the Jaecoo 5 shares much of its underlying architecture with the Omoda 3, making it the most mechanically related vehicle in the Chery family.
In a departure from current market trends, Jaecoo is holding back on launching the 5 as an electric or hybrid model. Instead, it will arrive first with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, likely delivering a familiar 187 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission – figures that mirror the powertrain found in the Omoda 5.
Design-wise, the Jaecoo 5 mirrors the aesthetic of its larger sibling, offering a more compact silhouette with a shorter wheelbase and a coupe-like raked roofline. Its front and rear styling closely mimic that of the Jaecoo 7, giving the model a distinctive and upscale presence on the road.
Inside, the Jaecoo 5 differentiates itself with a more compact digital interface. While the 7 boasts a 14.8-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch floating driver display, the 5 will feature a smaller central screen (size yet to be disclosed) and a driver display integrated into the dash, creating a cleaner and more minimalist cabin layout.
Buyers will be able to choose from two trims: Pure and Luxury. The entry-level Pure spec includes a six-speaker sound system, six-way adjustable seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stepping up to the Luxury trim brings additional features such as a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, and heated and ventilated front seats, aiming to satisfy the growing demand for premium technology and comfort at an attainable price point.
While full pricing and specifications are still under wraps, Jaecoo is expected to announce more details, including UK pricing and delivery dates, at Goodwood next week.
With its blend of sharp styling, familiar powertrain technology, and an aggressive market strategy, the Jaecoo 5 could well be a disruptive force in the compact crossover segment – especially as Chinese manufacturers continue to gain traction in Western markets.
Source: Jaecoo
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