Hybrid joins electric

The hybrid variant of Jaecoo’s J5 is joining its all-electric sibling in Kiwi showrooms as a single variant in the guise of the Summit.

Starting from $39,990 plus on-roads, it comes equipped with an 8.8-inch LCD instrument cluster, 13.2-inch infotainment screen, intelligent voice command, panoramic glass roof, heated plus ventilated front seats, and a powered tailgate. 

While similar in design to the EV variant, the hybrid-powered J5 adds Jaecoo’s signature “waterfall” front grille as seen on the larger J7 but retains the EV’s 18-inch “aero” alloys. 

The Summit, pictured, boasts a pet-friendly interior. The synthetic leather is made of a special silicone-based material, which is antibacterial and wear-resistant. Not only is it more durable, but it’s also easier to clean. 

Underneath the skin is Jaecoo’s next iteration of Super Hybrid technology, which utilises a series-parallel hybrid powertrain, instead of a plug-in hybrid system.

Combining a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine for 105kW and 215Nm with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with 150kW and 310Nm, the system delivers total output of 165kW and 295Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a dedicated hybrid transmission. Fuel usage is rated at 5.6l/100km on the combined cycle while emitting 126g/km of CO2. 

The J5 Hybrid is available for test drives from August 1 and is backed by the brand’s comprehensive seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. The high-voltage battery is covered for an extra year.