JAECOO J8 AWD Drive Impression In Malaysia

September 8, 2025

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We have the JAECOO J8 over a weekend in Klang Valley

The JAECOO J8 appears to be a very compelling option, offering a luxurious and feature-rich SUV experience at a competitive price point compared to established brands, with strong capabilities for both city driving and light off-roading (yes, this variant has 4×4 capability).

However, as a new automotive brand, there is some apprehension from many regarding the brands long-term commercial survival, but with a factory built in Malaysia and high investments in after sales and network, there should be nothing to worry.

Meanwhile, it offers high value for money and a very healthy warranty package to get Malaysian SUV buyers into their growing number of showrooms around the country.

First impression with the JAECOO J8 has us and the family agreeing that it is a very compelling vehicle if you are seeking a large, luxurious, and technologically advanced SUV but are not willing to pay the premium price of established brands. It offers exceptional value with its plush interior and generous equipment list.

What About Rivals

Immediate rivals are slightly more expensive, like the all new Hyundai Santa Fe, the Kia Sorento which retails for RM211,498 and the just launched Mazda CX60 which is priced at RM198,800 which is exactly what you pay for this 4WD J8.

What About Premiumness

This JAECOO J8 is well-equipped, offering a Level 2.5 ADAS suite including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking and a 540-degree surround view camera (a comprehensive “transparent chassis” view, eliminating blind spots and enhancing safety). It also has Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), and Emergency Lane Keep Assist (ELKA).

Comfort features starts with powered ventilated NAPPA leather front seats, middle row ‘QUEENS’ seats, 14 speakers, intelligent air conditioning, microfiber headliner, a driver monitoring system (DMS) and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Also the large full length panoramic sunroof and in-built air-fragrance system.

Well, luxury in this JAECOO J8 is highlighted by its interior design featuring dual 12.3-inch widescreen colour displays (one behind the steering wheels and another in the center), a quick 50W wireless charging pad and a 256-color ambient lighting system.

By the way there is a 12-speaker Sony system in the 2WD model, upgraded to a 14-speaker Sony system with headrest speakers (first found in the first generation Mazda MX5) in the this AWD variant.

So, it is all wrapped in a premium surrounding? Yes, and this is where you need to get to a showroom and understand this fact for yourself. JAECOO cabin designers have made sure all the lovely features found in premium brands have been adopted (with changes) into the J8 cabin and presented in a combination that will leave current European made SUV owners wondering why they paid so much for their current ride.

Yes, at the J8 selling price, there is very very little left to desire. Maybe you might want FREE petrol for year (some electric car sellers are providing FREE charging) or FREE parking in city malls for a YEAR!

Yes, what we are trying to point out is that, the J8 is fully loaded with really nothing missing at its price point.

Behind The Wheel

This J8 sits just a tad high off the ground which makes it a proper SUV and getting in and out is easy. Front seating comfort is very good with ‘couch’ like suppleness and its NOT hard leather finish like its some others.

You get easy electric seat adjustment as the knobs are on the door panel (not at the bottom side of the seat).

The steering is the right size and feels premium with good material being used. Digital 12.1 inch meter cluster is clear. The center command center is large and easy to read and learn as the software is quick and very intuitive.

The 2WD model achieves the sprint in 8.8 seconds, (there is around 246hp and 385Nm of torque) while the AWD variant is slightly slower at 9.0 seconds. There are driving modes (Off-Road, Mud, Sand) tailored with the throttle and gearbox behavior to maximize grip on different terrains.

Yes, we did test drive it on an off road course. Hill Descent Control worked smoothly and automatically to maintain a gentle, controlled speed on steep declines, inspiring confidence in the driver. The J8 AWD has a 450 mm wading depth and well-sealed components, allowing it to pass through water crossings without issue.

Steering feel is light (just what most drivers in the segment want) and throttle response very decent. Cabin insulation is good with minimal tyre and road noise to be heard. The view out for the average driver is good and with good seat adjustments available, most will get a good position.