Al-Qalam 
By Imraan Buccus
There is a quiet confidence about the way JAECOO is expanding its South African footprint. It is clear that they are reading the market correctly, targeting buyers who want premium design and strong specification, but who are increasingly unmoved by badges alone. I had the good fortune of getting a test vehicle from NMI Jaecoo in Umhlanga.
The J7 may be more known but the J5 brings the same visual presence and perceived quality to a more accessible price point. This makes sense in today’s cost-conscious environment.
Familiar, but confidently styled
The J5 is unmistakably a JAECOO. Its bold front grille dominates the nose. The slim, high-mounted headlights give it a confident, upright stance. The design is clean and restrained, with squared-off wheel arches adding mild ruggedness without inappropriate excess for a car in this segment.
There is an undeniable familiarity in terms of styling, borrowing heavily from European design cues, but it is neatly executed. A full-width rear light bar adds a modern touch, while wheel sizes are sensibly matched to the trim levels, with 17-inch alloys on the Vortex and Glacier, and 18-inch wheels on the Inferno.
Minimalism and usability
Inside, the J5 follows the now-familiar Chinese playbook of minimalist design and screen-based interaction. Almost all functions are housed within a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen, while an eight-inch digital instrument cluster provides essential driving information.
The layout is clean and uncluttered, and while the lack of physical buttons may divide opinion, the system is intuitive enough once familiar. Importantly, the cabin avoids the overwhelming wraparound hyperscreens seen elsewhere, resulting in a calmer, more focused environment.
Space well designed
One area where the J5 impresses is practicality. Its 2,620 mm wheelbase translates into generous legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it well-suited to family use.
The boot is equally accommodating, offering 480 litres with the rear seats in place and expanding to 1,284 litres when folded. This puts the J5 firmly in contention for buyers who need real-world space rather than just visual presence.
One engine, one clear brief
The entire JAECOO J5 range is powered by a single 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 115 kW and 230 Nm. It is paired exclusively with a CVT transmission driving the front wheels.
Driving in Durban’s city centre, the Jaecoo navigates smoothly, suiting its role as an everyday companion. On the open road, it feels competent rather than engaging, with refinement taking precedence over urgency. Claimed fuel consumption stands at 7.5 L/100 km and my time with the car more or less coheres with this figure.
Ride quality
Ride quality is generally composed, although I’m told the Inferno derivative rides slightly firmer due to its larger wheels and lower-profile tyres. The Vortex and Glacier models, with their smaller wheels, are likely to offer a more compliant ride on rougher surfaces.
Steering retains a reassuring level of feedback, and the upright seating position contributes to good visibility, making the J5 easy to place in traffic and relaxed on longer journeys.
Generous specification
Specification is one of the J5’s strongest selling points. Even the entry-level Vortex includes automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster and a comprehensive list of convenience features.
The Glacier adds leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat and a more premium feel, while the Inferno moves firmly into near-luxury territory with ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, wireless charging and an upgraded audio system.
Safety
Safety equipment is comprehensive, with ABS, stability control, traction control, hill descent control and multiple airbags standard across the range. Higher-spec models add side curtain airbags for additional peace of mind.
JAECOO also backs the J5 with a five-year/150,000 km warranty and a five-year/75,000 km service plan, addressing some of the longer-term ownership concerns still associated with newer brands.
Priced right
With pricing starting at R369,900 and topping out at R479,900, the J5 positions itself aggressively against established rivals. In doing so, it highlights the growing reality of the South African market: buyers are increasingly focused on value, features and monthly repayments rather than brand heritage alone.
Final word
The JAECOO J5 is not a disruptive or revolutionary product, but it does not need to be. It is a carefully judged compact SUV that delivers strong specification, generous space and contemporary design at a competitive price. Again, much needed in South Africa as families look for good value in uncertain economic times.
For buyers who prioritise value and usability over badge prestige and dynamic polish, the J5 makes a persuasive and timely case.
Contact Spha (031 576 1400) at NMI Jaecoo in Umhlanga for your test drive
