2025 Jaecoo J8 AWD Review

In recent years, the competition in Malaysia's mid-to-large SUV market has become increasingly fierce. Consumers not only pursue practicality and spaciousness but also have higher expectations for luxury features and performance. As a new D-segment option, the 2025 Jaecoo J8 AWD highlights its core selling points with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, 6-seater layout, and comprehensive intelligent features. Through a real test drive, we explore whether it can stand out among vehicles in the same price range and provide a balanced choice for family users or business needs.

From the exterior, the overall style of the Jaecoo J8 AWD leans towards being steady and imposing. The front features a large grille with vertically-aligned decorative strips in a smoked finish, housing the brand logo in the center, which enhances its recognizability. The car's body lines extend from the front to the rear, with the sides equipped with 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. The tire specifications are 245/50 R20, enhancing the visual sense of strength. At the rear, the sleek design is complemented by through-type LED taillights, while the twin-exit exhaust layout below (decorative, with the actual exhaust hidden underneath) adheres to the positioning of a mid-to-large SUV. Although the design is not overly aggressive, the details are handled meticulously.

Upon entering the interior, a large amount of soft materials has been utilized, with leather wrapping used on the top of the dashboard and the inside of the door panels, providing a delicate touch. The central control area is equipped with a 12.3-inch floating touch screen, with some physical buttons retained below for clear operational logic. The instrument panel is also a 12.3-inch full LCD screen, presenting abundant information with various theme modes available. The front seats support electric adjustment and feature ventilation and massage functions; the co-pilot seat is similarly equipped, enhancing the riding comfort. The second row offers independent captain seats, which also support ventilation, massage, and dual memory functions. The legroom for passengers is spacious, and the flat middle floor ensures long rides are comfortable without feeling cramped. The third-row seats can be folded in a 50:50 ratio, and when folded down, they expand the trunk space; under regular usage, it accommodates six passengers, making it suitable for family trips or business receptions.

In terms of power, the Jaecoo J8 AWD is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine delivering a maximum power of 183kW (249PS) and a maximum torque of 385N·m, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 9 seconds. During the actual test drive, the power response was quick during start-up, with the turbo engaging early (maximum torque available at 1750rpm). Mid-range acceleration was robust, allowing for confident overtaking without the need for aggressive throttle inputs. The transmission shifts smoothly, with clear upshift and downshift logic. In standard mode, it prioritizes comfort, while in sport mode, shift speeds improve, appealing to users who occasionally seek driving thrills.

As for handling performance, the steering wheel provides moderate resistance with minimal slack and accurate directional control. The suspension system adopts a front MacPherson independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort. It effectively absorbs road surface bumps, keeping the vehicle stable. When maneuvering through turns, body roll is kept within a reasonable range, giving the driver sufficient confidence. However, due to the larger vehicle size, the turning radius is slightly larger, requiring more careful steering when making U-turns in narrow spaces.

In terms of safety configuration, the Jaecoo J8 AWD comes standard with 10 airbags, including dual front airbags, side airbags, head curtain airbags, and knee airbags. It also features seatbelt reminders for all seats. The active safety features are comprehensive, including lane change assist, lane departure warning, active braking, forward collision warning, and ACC adaptive cruise control, which can effectively reduce the risk of accidents during daily driving. The 360-degree panoramic camera and automatic parking functions are very practical for novice drivers or users of large vehicles, helping to minimize the risk of scratches during parking.

In terms of ride comfort, the vehicle has good sound insulation performance, with wind noise and tire noise controlled within acceptable levels during high-speed driving. Engine noise is slightly noticeable during rapid acceleration but does not affect normal conversation between passengers inside the car. The independent second-row seats feature ventilation and massage functions, which can effectively alleviate fatigue during long-distance travel. The third-row seat space is slightly compact for adults but is adequate for short trips. The regular trunk volume is relatively small, but folding down the third row expands it to a larger space suitable for carrying bulky items.

Compared to mid-to-large SUVs in the same price range, the Jaecoo J8 AWD stands out with its rich configuration and 6-seat layout, especially the comfort features of the independent second-row seats, which are relatively rare in vehicles of the same segment. In terms of price, the RM 198,800 price point offers better value for money compared to other brands' models in the same class, making it suitable for consumers with a limited budget but who pursue luxury features.

Overall, the 2025 Jaecoo J8 AWD is a well-rounded mid-to-large SUV with sufficient power performance for daily needs, flexible space layout, rich features, and excellent safety performance. It is suitable for families who prioritize comfort and practicality, as well as small to medium business owners in need of a vehicle for business receptions. If you are looking for an affordably priced SUV with comprehensive features and a 6-seat configuration, the Jaecoo J8 AWD is worth considering.