First Look Review: Defender-style Jaecoo J6T CSH delivers for the range-anxious

The Jaecoo J6T CSH is the range-extender version of the Chinese brand’s rugged compact SUV, combining the distinctive design of the J6T EV, which we experienced back in late 2025, with a petrol-powered generator for backup.

Recently, we spent some time checking out the global-spec J6T CSH (branded Chery J6T CSH in some markets), and found a few interesting differences between the EREV and EV versions.

Design

The J6T CSH (or the J6T REEV) retains the two-box proportions and upright stance that give the compact SUV the unmistakable Land Rover Defender flavour in pictures, and in person.

At the front, the cleverly-designed i-shaped daytime running lights combine with horizontally positioned main lamps to make the vehicle seem taller than it actually is. A gloss black panel runs between the lights, while a large silver section underneath gives the nose an interesting contrast.

Seeing it in the flesh, the pronounced power dome on the bonnet, chunky front bumper with large vertical crash guards, integrated fog lights, skid plate, and the pushed-out front quarter panels contribute to the J6T CSH’s muscular look.

Looking at it from the side, the squared-off wheel arches, deeply sculpted panels at either end, and chunky alloy wheels are the elements that stand out. The car’s glossy upper finish and flush door handles lend sophistication to what is otherwise a ‘raw’ look.

Based on the market, 19-inch wheels with 255/55 tyres are offered in the rear-wheel-drive version, and larger 21-inch wheels with 265/45 tyres hoist the all-wheel-drive version.

At the rear, vertical tail lamps flank the tailgate, while the bumper repeats the rugged treatment of the front with prominent vertical elements and a silver lower section.

Interior

Stepping into the J6T CSH, the upright and relatively minimalist dashboard is easy on the eyes. Vertical outer air vents add to the squared-off theme, while the steering wheel features Chery branding on its centre pad.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender interior

Most functions are accessed through a large 15.6-inch central touchscreen, accompanied by a 9.2-inch digital instrument display. Features in the global-spec model include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front and rear USB ports and a 50 W wireless smartphone charger.

The centre console includes a power-operated storage compartment underneath, while the armrest incorporates another storage area. The vehicle features a 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with electric lumbar adjustment and a four-way electrically adjustable front passenger seat.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender dashboard

In the highest configuration, features include a 12-speaker Infinity system, 64-colour ambient lighting, driver’s seat memory, a front passenger leg rest and front-seat massage. A panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate and side steps complete what is a well-specified SUV.

Experience in the J6T CSH

I spent time in the J6T CSH, and stepping into the front was easy thanks to the wide-opening door. Once seated, the cabin felt spacious, and I had around 5.5-6 inches of headroom in my most comfortable driving position.

The driver’s seat offered good back support and lumbar support, and the seat itself felt suitably wide for my 5’7″ frame. Under-thigh support was acceptable, but I would have preferred a slightly longer seat cushion. It is not a major weakness, though.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender front seats

Visibility is one of the J6T CSH’s strongest points. The view ahead, to the sides and through the rear was excellent, and the tailgate-mounted storage box did not obstruct the rearward view.

I also liked the electronic door-release buttons integrated into the grab handles. They make egress straightforward, as I could simply hold the grab handle and press the release with my thumb.

Rear ingress was equally easy. Once inside, I had about 5 inches of headroom, while the headrest felt comfortable and back support was good. Legroom was generous, and so was knee room. Under-thigh support could have been better, but that said, the rear seat does offer a small amount of manual recline, which improves comfort.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender rear seat legroom

Rear passengers are also reasonably well catered for, with two USB Type-A ports, two AC vents and a fold-out centre armrest with two cupholders.

Specifications

The global-spec Jaecoo J6T CSH measures 4,503 mm long, 1,950 mm wide and 1,785 mm tall, with a 2,783 mm wheelbase. That makes it 70 mm longer, 34 mm wider and 44 mm taller than the J6T EV we previously examined, while its wheelbase is stretched by 68 mm.

Ground clearance stands at 215 mm in the rear-wheel-drive model and 220 mm in the all-wheel-drive version. Both offer a 450-litre boot.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender centre console cupholder

Both versions use a 33.67 kWh LFP battery and a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol range-extender engine, paired with a 45-litre fuel tank. The battery supports 6.6 kW AC charging and up to 100 kW DC charging.

The rear-wheel-drive J6T CSH Max uses an electric motor on the rear axle, developing 185 kW (252 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.9 seconds and has a 160 km/h (99 mph) top speed. Its electric-only range is rated at 190 km (118 miles) under the NEDC test cycle, while the quoted combined driving range is 800 km (497 miles).

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender cargo boot

The J6T CSH Ultra adds a second electric motor and all-wheel drive, taking the combined output to 315 kW (428 hp) and 505 Nm. The extra performance cuts the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time to 5.5 seconds, although top speed remains 160 km/h (99 mph). Its NEDC electric range drops to 160 km (99 miles), and the quoted combined range stands at 750 km (466 miles).

The Ultra also offers additional driving programmes for slippery surfaces, sand, mud and rough terrain, while both variants feature hill descent control, a 540-degree camera system, camping and pet modes, and a 2.3 kW V2L function.

Price & Release Date

Jaecoo has yet to announce the J6T CSH for the UK. As of September 2026, its British line-up includes the Jaecoo 5, Jaecoo 7 and Jaecoo 8, and the company has not confirmed either the J6 or J6T among its UK model plans.

Jaecoo J6T Range Extender front

Having examined the J6T closely, we feel it would give Jaecoo (or iCaur, if Chery decides to market it here as the 03) a different proposition from its existing British SUVs, particularly with its compact dimensions, robust styling and range-extender drivetrain, if priced at under GBP 40,000.

We will update this section if the company confirms UK availability or pricing.