The recently launched Jaecoo 8 SHS is the brand’s largest SUV for the UK market and introduces Chery’s Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology to the seven-seat family SUV segment.
We spent some time with the global-spec version, and here’s what we like and wish to see improve in the flagship product.
Design
The Jaecoo 8 SHS adopts a traditional SUV profile with upright proportions and a big focus on interior space. At the front, a large grille is flanked by LED headlights and LED daytime running lights, while dynamic turn indicators and decorative exterior lighting elements feature across the range.
Along the sides, roof rails, retractable door handles and a long roofline contribute to the vehicle’s family-focused packaging. The Executive trim additionally features electric opening and closing doors.
At the rear, LED taillights, a roof-mounted spoiler and twin exhaust finishers complete the overall design.
Interior
The Jaecoo 8 SHS is available in both seven-seat and six-seat layouts.
The dashboard incorporates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and supports multi-screen connectivity. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while connected-car functionality includes 4G connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, over-the-air software updates, online navigation and mobile-app remote functions.
A Sony premium audio system, active noise cancellation, a 50W wireless smartphone charger and headrest speakers are also included.
The front seats feature electric adjustment, ventilation and memory functions for the driver. Higher-spec Executive models add leather upholstery, a suede headliner and a heated steering wheel.
The six-seat Executive version focuses on second-row comfort, offering power-reclining captain’s chairs with heating, ventilation, massage functionality, individual armrests and dual headrests.
Other available equipment includes dual-zone climate control, rear climate controls, second-row air vents, a panoramic sunroof, acoustic laminated glass, heated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and a powered tailgate.
Experience in the Jaecoo 8
I spent time in the global-spec Jaecoo 8, and getting into the front was easy. Once I adjusted the seat to my usual driving position, I found the cushioning slightly firm but comfortable.
Back support and under-thigh support were good, the side support was acceptable, and the headrest felt comfortable. However, I would have liked a longer seat base. I had about 10 cm of headroom above my head.
The pedal box and dead pedal were well positioned, while the small front quarter glass panels helped outward visibility. I liked the two wireless phone chargers, crystal-style drive mode selector, knurled volume dial and ventilated storage compartment under the armrest, all of which were practical touches.
Material quality was also a pleasant surprise, with soft-touch dashboard sections and a bronze inlay flowing into the door cards. However, the piano black finish on the centre console and steering wheel was already attracting fingerprints, and the lack of physical climate controls needs to be addressed in the future facelift.
In the second row, the seats slide and recline, which improves flexibility. With the seat in its rearmost position and the front seat set to my driving position, I had about 6 cm of knee room and about 6 cm of headroom.
Around half of my shoes slid under the front seat. Back support was very good, the adjustable headrest was comfortable, and the small thigh extenders may benefit shorter passengers.
Rear passengers get ventilated seats, centre and B-pillar air vents, window shades, controls to move the front passenger seat and a fold-out armrest with cupholders. The armrest could have been positioned slightly lower.
The footwell is usable, but the raised seat platform and protruding AC console make the middle seat unsuitable for an adult. Two adults should be reasonably comfortable, while a child can use the middle seat.
I also liked the separate manual and electric door releases. The third row, however, is only suitable for children. Access and legroom are limited, the floor is uneven, and an adult would not be comfortable, despite amenities like adjustable headrests, cupholders and side armrests.
Specifications
The Jaecoo 8 SHS measures 4,820 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width and 1,710 mm in height. Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine working with Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System and an all-wheel-drive drivetrain. System output stands at 428 PS and 560 Nm of torque.
Jaecoo quotes a 0-62 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph.
A 30-80% DC fast charge takes around 20 minutes. The plug-in hybrid system delivers up to 83 miles of WLTP electric-only range, while Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality is also available.
The Jaecoo 8 SHS can tow up to 1,600 kg braked and offers a 70-litre fuel tank. Boot capacity stands at 200 litres with all seats in use and expands to 738 litres with the third row folded.
Pricing
At £45,500 for the Luxury and £47,500 for the Executive, the Jaecoo 8 SHS has just entered a crowded market dominated by established players like the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Peugeot 5008.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
