Jaecoo J5 previewed in Malaysia at Omoda Jaecoo Carnival

KUALA LUMPUR: Jaecoo has pulled the covers off its latest entry-level SUV, the Jaecoo J5, previewed for the first time in Malaysia at the ongoing Omoda Jaecoo Carnival at Desa ParkCity, Car Park 3.

The four-day event, which runs until 24 August, also features the local debut of the Omoda C9 PHEV, the brand’s most powerful model to date.

Also Read: Jaecoo J8 takes on Off-Road obstacles with confidence and comfort

Jaecoo J5 – A new gateway model

The J5 is positioned as Jaecoo’s most accessible SUV, aimed at giving more Malaysians a taste of the brand’s “attainable luxury” formula. Estimated pricing has been set at around RM120,000, though in typical Jaecoo fashion, expectations are that the eventual launch price could be lower when it officially arrives by the end of 2025.

At 4,380 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and 1,650 mm tall, the B-segment SUV rides on a 2,620 mm wheelbase. It sits on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/55 R18 tyres, balancing practicality with a sporty stance.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 147 PS and 210 Nm, paired to a CVT gearbox. Official fuel economy is rated at 7.5 litres/100 km (WLTC). What sets the J5 apart in its class is its suspension setup – a combination of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear, a feature not commonly offered at this price point.

Inside, the J5 is fitted with faux leather upholstery, a 13.2-inch 2K touchscreen with WiFi connectivity, an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and an eight-speaker audio system. There’s also a 1.45 m² panoramic sunroof – the largest in its class – which floods the cabin with light. Boot space is rated at 480 litres, expandable to 1,180 litres with the rear seats folded.

Safety kit includes Level 2.5 ADAS features and Jaecoo’s 540-degree HD Surround View camera. The cabin is TÜV-certified as pet-friendly, catering to modern family needs.

Bookings for the J5 are now open, with a RM1,000 fee, and Jaecoo is actively encouraging visitors at the Carnival to provide feedback on what specifications they’d like to see in the Malaysian-market version.

Omoda C9 PHEV – Power and range

Alongside the J5, the event also previews the Omoda C9 PHEV, a large plug-in hybrid SUV that pairs a 1.5-litre turbo engine with three electric motors. Together, the system can deliver up to 605 PS and 915 Nm, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds.

A 34.46 kWh LFP battery provides up to 150 km of pure EV range, while total driving range is quoted at around 1,100 km. Charging options include 70 kW DC fast charging as well as 6.6 kW and 2.8 kW AC charging.

Fuel efficiency is rated at just 1.7 litres/100 km, thanks to its 3-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). The C9 also features Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension that can adjust up to 100 times per second, with seven driving modes to cover both urban and off-road use. Inside, buyers can expect premium touches like heated and ventilated seats.

The Carnival Experience

The Omoda Jaecoo Carnival is more than just a car showcase. The brand has brought in its full Malaysian line-up, including the J7 and J8, and set up test drive sessions running daily from 10 AM to 7 PM.

Visitors can also explore the SHS Experience Lab, which explains the workings of the Super Hybrid System through interactive demonstrations and guided sessions.

According to Emily Lek, Vice-President of Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia, the Carnival is about more than just new models:

“The Omoda | Jaecoo Carnival brings together our most complete line-up yet, showcasing performance and innovation at every level. Alongside, it previews two upcoming models – J5, our Everyday Superstar, and the C9 PHEV, built with The Power To Lead – both ready to excite customers in Malaysia. Most importantly, this Carnival is our way of saying thank you to all our customers for their outstanding support, welcoming new ones into the world of attainable luxury, and educating the wider public about the benefits of next-generation New Energy Vehicle technology.”

The Carnival also offers lifestyle elements including a PingMing Market bazaar, food stalls, outdoor spaces, and children’s play zones – making it a family-friendly event.

The Omoda Jaecoo Carnival runs until 24 August 2025 at Car Park 3, Desa ParkCity, Kuala Lumpur.

Also Read: Jaecoo J8 launched in Malaysia – From RM178,800, up to 6 seats and AWD