How to get from Cornwall to the Highlands on one charge and one tank

Sure, today’s generation of hybrids can all confidently cover off efficiency, versatility and convenience. But few can do it with such impressive stats – and at an even more impressive price tag – than the Chinese manufacturer Chery’s JAECOO 7. 

Available in front-wheel drive, AWD petrol and Super Hybrid System (SHS) versions, this muscular yet deft SUV is equally as comfortable darting through city streets as it is on just about any terrain imaginable.

Like many of its peers, the JAECOO 7 is bursting with snazzy tech, but what sets it apart is quite how much of that functionality comes as standard. So, if you’re ready for an upsize that won’t break the bank or simply want a soft landing into the world of hybrid motoring, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to find out why.
 

“You’ll run out of Britain before your car runs out of juice”
 

One and done

Ready for your range anxiety to melt away like a clumsily dropped ice lolly on a hot day? Here goes: the JAECOO 7 SHS boasts an all-electric range of 56 miles before your engine needs to lift a finger – a staggering number for a hybrid SUV.

But that’s not even the big headline number. A full charge combined with a full tank of fuel, plus all the self-charging capability of regenerative braking, will propel you some 745 miles. So, if you set off from London and keep driving north, you’ll run out of Britain before your car runs out of juice. 

What’s more, all that efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of performance. At 201 horsepower, the SHS more than holds its own in the cut and thrust of busy motorway driving.

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Choose your adventure

So, now you don’t need to worry about the journey, what about the destination? Whatever hijinks you have planned during your next road trip, the JAECOO 7 is up to the task.

That’s because it offers as many as seven different driving modes. Economy, Standard and Sport are all pretty self-explanatory, but things get rather more exciting with Sand, Mud, Snow and Off-Road. 

Depending on where the wind takes you, you can either toggle between these settings yourself or leave it up to the JAECOO 7’s intelligent all-wheel drive system to decide the best mode for the circumstances. Designed to provide maximum driveability in any conditions, it automatically senses changes in the road surface and adapts accordingly in just 0.1 seconds.
 

“Experience ultimate freedom with the large panoramic sunroof”
 

Superior styling

The JAECOO 7 presents a tough, robust exterior complemented with plenty of refined touches.

There’s the eye-catching blade design of the 19-inch alloys, which not only looks cool but also helps with aerodynamics and more efficient brake cooling. Elsewhere, the retractable door handles are a sleek solution that also contribute to the slick silhouette. 

Inside, meanwhile, you can experience ultimate freedom with the large panoramic sunroof, while the windshield heads-up display will keep you informed and your eyes firmly fixed on the road. In the Luxury trim, you’ll also benefit from a 14.8-inch infotainment screen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for effortless navigation and access to entertainment.
 

Let’s talk about specs

The FWD Deluxe model will set you back a thoroughly reasonable £30,115, or £35,165 for the SHS version, representing some of the best value you’ll find on the hybrid SUV market.

However, should you stump up £33,945 for the Luxury version, you can enjoy extra flourishes like the Sony 8-speaker sound system, a heated steering wheel for those cold days when Mother Nature is at her vengeful worst, and a four-way lumbar support in your seat. 

Intrigued? Find the right JAECOO 7 for you and book a test drive here