THE TRUSTED VOICE OF NZ’s
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY SINCE 1984

SUV joins ‘competitive market’

Jaecoo prepares to launch its J5 range in New Zealand with a pet-friendly BEV variant. 
Posted on 21 January, 2026
SUV joins ‘competitive market’

Jaecoo New Zealand has confirmed its all-new J5 SUV will arrive at dealerships as a single EV variant from late January. 

The model utilises a single electric motor, producing 155kW/288Nm, with power sent to the front wheels. 

This delivers a 0-100kph acceleration time of 7.7 seconds, a range of up to 402km (WLTP) and electric energy consumption of 143Wh/km. Maximum towing mass for a non-braked trailer is 750kg.

Other features of the J5 include 18-inch “aero” alloy wheels, vehicle-to-load functionality, remote start with air conditioning memory, a glass roof with powered sunshade, dual-zone air conditioning and heated and ventilated front seats.

On the inside is an 8.88-inch LCD driver instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch LCD infotainment touchscreen, eight-speaker sound system and a 360-degree around view monitor.

The J5 is also fitted with pet-friendly synthetic leather made of a special silicone-based material, which is antibacterial and wear-resistant. The brand says this is more durable than many other fabrics and easier to clean. 

Roy Munoz, Omoda Jaecoo Australia and New Zealand’s chief commercial officer, adds the company is excited about the arrival of the J5 range in New Zealand. 

“Kicking off with the BEV variant, it will be a compelling choice in an increasingly competitive EV market,” he explains. 

“No other vehicle currently offers a pet-friendly interior and a large selection of accessories, which range from a dog carrier to a waterproof cargo mat, and even a karaoke machine.”

Safety attributes of the SUV include seven airbags and advanced safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking, emergency lane keeping, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning.

The zero-emissions J5 sold out in Thailand and took the top spot there for BEV November sales. Meanwhile, it received 6,000 preorders in two weeks in Indonesia and has won awards in Chile and Thailand.

Pricing details will be announced closer to launch.