Juniper
The 2026 Jaecoo J5 makes a stately first impression.
Viewed from the back and sideline, its Range Rover-esque aesthetics makes it instantly handsome and premium looking. Think Evoque x Velar. Giving this petrol J5 a visually upmarket appeal in Malaysia’s crowded SUV market – at an interesting price of RM108k.
Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 147 PS (108 kW) and 210 Nm, driving the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Claimed figures of 0–100 km/h in 10.2 seconds and a 175 km/h top speed. Sounds promising on paper along with that relatively competitive asking price. On the road, however, the J5 reveals two less than tempting traits. The most obvious is the busy ride. On most occasions, the suspension struggles to filter out low-frequency vibrations, making the J5 drive less comfortable than it should. This is somewhat surprising given its multi-link rear suspension, which gives it more predictable and accurate road holding.
Strangely, the 1.5-litre turbo feels like a naturally aspirated engine. Trundling along well in city’s congested traffic but once on open road, it feels quite underpowered when tasked to run higher speeds. The CVT does its job smoothly enough, but sustained acceleration brings out a rather unpleasant groaning, hollow intake roar as the engine breathes harder…and louder.
All is not lost though, the J5’s cabin is classy for a budget model, never looking low rent. Interior is spacious, equipment levels are generous with even a powered boot, panoramic roof with motorised sunshade and bilateral front powered-ventilated seats. There is even a Karaoke system to keep kids and even adult passengers entertained on longer jaunts!
At RM108,000 and possibly a bit lesser at the dealers, it certainly offers plenty of B-segment SUV for the money. In overview, the Jaecoo J5 gets acres of style, space and standard equipments. A little more
suspension polish (closer to its elder brethren, the J7) and a stronger, quieter engine would transform the handsome J5 from an impressive package into a genuinely accomplished junior aristocrat.
Here’s eagerly awaiting the upcoming Jaecoo J5 EV to up the game in the ever-popular B- segment SUV class in Malaysia.
Kuala Lumpur-based Dr. Long See Pin is a certified car enthusiast who has previously spent some two decades testing and writing about new cars. He is currently motoring correspondent at Juniper’s Journal, MotoAuto.com and can be found online @drlongspcars on Insta, FB, YouTube and TikTok.
He is also on the judging panel of the Malaysia Car of the Year (COTY) 2026.
As a medical doctor, he specialises in skin, wellness, anti-ageing & aesthetics
@drlongdermatology
@drlongskinclinic.com
