Further on the Jaecoo J7 SHS Summit SUV – with Range Rover Evoque styling cues this plug-in hybrid newcomer has a clamed 106km pure electric range and a potential combined total range of 1200 kilometres. At $47,990 drive-away it features a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine linked to an electric motor driving the front wheels fed by an 18.3kWhour battery. Nice external styling cues with a waterfall style grill, a roomy five-seater, finishes inside not so expressive but great in terms of space. A large 14.8-inch infotainment touch screen, a head-up instrument display, power heated and cooled front seats, synthetic leather trim, power rear door and a panoramic sunroof make the Jaecoo J7 SHS Summit SUV a compelling package in a highly competitive SUV market – thankfully no constant audio reminders I complain of regularly but a lack of buttons for radio and climate control a frustration, also the lack of a spare wheel. But a really nice driver, eager, quiet and efficient – after charging I got 93 km of pure electric motoring with a combined average 4.2L/100km, the 1.0L/100km claimed economy somewhat overstated – however with 8-years unlimited km warranty for car and battery and 8-years capped price servicing and roadside assistance this Chinese hybrid impresses.

IMAGE CREDIT / Jaecoo Australia

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