Brief Summary
The new JQ7, a mid-size SUV from China, is generating buzz due to rising car prices. It offers a fully-loaded plug-in hybrid version with impressive tech and design, rivaling European cars at a lower price point. While it excels in value and appearance, its driving dynamics and safety system sensitivity are areas for consideration.
- Great value for money
- Packed with tech
- Driving dynamics are subpar
Intro
The video introduces the new JQ7, a midsize SUV from China that has garnered significant attention on the Car Wow website. Despite its origin, the JQ7 is generating buzz due to the current climate of rising car prices.
Car Prices
Car prices have significantly increased in the last 5 years. The JQ7 is presented as a potentially more affordable option compared to other cars. CarWow offers savings on various car models, making the JQ7 an attractive bargain.
Design
The JQ7 features a design with hints of Range Rover, including hidden rear window wipers and pop-out door handles. It has a bold grill and comes in a pearly light blue metallic paint. The car is equipped with keyless go. The lights have a smart graphic design.
Price
The JQ7 is estimated to start around £30,000, with the fully-loaded version costing about £35,000. Savings are available through CarWow, potentially reducing the entry-level price to under £30,000. Specifying a JQ7 is straightforward, with limited options beyond engine type (petrol or plug-in hybrid) and trim level.
Interior
The JQ7's interior features a large, responsive screen that controls climate settings. The car includes a speed limit warning system and starts via the brake pedal due to its hybrid nature. The infotainment system is logical, offering various settings such as energy management, vehicle settings, and driver assistance systems. Standard features include wireless charging, heads-up display, ambient lighting, fully electric seats, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and voice recognition. The digital driver's display is clear, showing economy figures, battery life, and fuel levels. The steering wheel has stereo controls, but volume can only be adjusted via the screen. The interior uses soft-touch materials in key areas, with some scratchy plastics lower down. The driving position is good, and the seats are comfortable.
Back Seats
The back seats offer ample knee room, headroom, and foot space. Soft-touch materials are used, but some parts feel flimsy. The car can accommodate three passengers in the back, though shoulder room is limited. The front passenger seat can be controlled from the back. Installing a baby seat is easy with accessible ISOFIX anchor points. The back door is notably long, potentially causing issues in tight parking spaces.
Boot & Practicality
The boot has a capacity of 500 liters but is somewhat shallow. It features a hook for shopping bags and a 12V socket. The load cover is difficult to store. The hands-free boot release is unreliable. The car has deep storage spaces, cooled cup holders, wireless charging with a cooling vent, and both USB and USB-C ports. Door bins are large. Rear passengers have access to USB ports.
Engines
The JQ7 offers two engine options: a 1.6L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 147 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed automatic gearbox, available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive; and a 1.5L 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid with 204 horsepower, a CVT automatic gearbox, and front-wheel drive, capable of 56 miles in EV mode.
Brake Test
The JQ7 achieves a stopping distance of 35 meters in a brake test from 60 mph, which is acceptable for its class.
Town Driving
The JQ7 is adequate for town driving, offering a high seating position and good forward visibility. The steering is light, and the brakes feel good. However, the rear window is small. The car's safety systems, particularly the attention monitor and lane-keeping assist, are overly sensitive and can be intrusive.
Cruising & Acceleration
The car's pickup from the electric motor is good, but there is noticeable tire noise at higher speeds. The suspension can feel unsettled over bumps. The plug-in hybrid model is economical. The acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was tested at 8.13 seconds.
Country Road Driving
On country roads, the JQ7's limitations become apparent. The steering lacks feel, and the body leans in corners. The suspension is jiggly, making the car feel unsettled. The driving experience is where the car feels cheap.
0-60mph
The plug-in hybrid model is supposed to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds. During testing, the car achieved 0-60mph in 8.13 seconds.
Verdict
The JQ7 is worth considering due to its great value and appealing design, despite its subpar driving dynamics. It is suitable for those who prioritize practicality over driving experience.
