Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV Review – 2025’s Big-Battery Plug-In SUV with 90km EV Range

The 2025 Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV (Super Hybrid System Plug-In Hybrid) is the latest addition to Chery’s Jaecoo SUV lineup, bringing big electric range, premium styling, and everyday affordability to the growing PHEV market. For drivers who want the smooth feel of an EV but with petrol backup for long trips, this could be one of the most compelling SUVs under $50K.

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Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV Powertrain & Performance

Under the bonnet, the Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid packs:

• 1.5-litre turbo-petrol 4-cylinder – 105kW / 215Nm

• 18.3kWh battery – paired with a single 150kW / 310Nm electric motor

• Single-speed transmission, FWD layout

Efficiency & Range:

• Electric-only driving range: 90km WLTP (real-world 80–90km)

• Total hybrid range: Up to 1200km

• Fuel economy: 1.0L/100km WLTP

• DC fast-charging: Up to 40kW

The J7 SHS prioritizes electric-first driving, with the petrol engine mainly acting as a generator. It kicks in above 80km/h or under heavy acceleration, but most city trips can be done without using a drop of petrol.

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Driving Experience – EV First, Hybrid Second

The Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV feels like an electric SUV most of the time:

• Quiet, refined, and responsive in EV mode

• Petrol engine noise is well suppressed

• Adaptive cruise control smooths out stop-and-go traffic

One note: to manually select EV mode, you’ll need the battery above 30% charge. Below that, it defaults to hybrid mode but still runs electrically as much as possible.

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Interior & Features – Minimalist Meets High-Tech

Inside, the Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid SUV takes on a cleaner, more minimalist interior design than the petrol model:

• Steering-column gear selector frees up centre console space

• Side mirror controls moved into infotainment menus (with auto-dip reverse function)

• High-quality trims that match premium SUV rivals

However, the new gear selector requires a full stop before shifting between Drive and Reverse — something to keep in mind for quick parking manoeuvres.

Boot capacity is 340 litres (down from the petrol FWD’s 424L), matching the AWD version.

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Ride & Handling

With an extra 260kg battery weight, the J7 SHS is tuned for comfort rather than sport:

• Steering is light and easy for city use

• Ride can feel unsettled over certain bumps

• Handling is tidy but less agile than the petrol J7

The focus here is clearly on efficiency, comfort, and tech, not sharp driving dynamics.

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Why the Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV Stands Out

The Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV isn’t just another hybrid SUV. It’s a big-battery plug-in with:

• 90km EV range – one of the best in its class

• Under $50K pricing in New Zealand

• Premium design inside and out

• DC fast-charging capability

• Seamless EV-to-petrol operation

For daily commutes, you can drive it like a full electric SUV, then switch to hybrid for long trips — all without worrying about range.

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Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV – Key Specs at a Glance

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Verdict – A PHEV That Feels Like an EV

The 2025 Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV offers an impressive blend of style, technology, and electric range that rivals much more expensive plug-in SUVs. It’s perfect for drivers who want EV-like performance, low running costs, and the security of petrol backup — all without breaking the bank.

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Also Read- Meet Ford’s $30K Electric Truck: Affordable, Powerful, and Made in America