JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: which is better?
A full comparison of how these two JAECOO SUVs compare
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JAECOO is absolutely taking the world by storm, releasing a range of affordable and bold, budget-friendly SUVs.
The JAECOO 7 and JAECOO 8 are the two largest models available in the UK, offering lots of interior space and tech.
But which one is best for you?
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What’s better – the JAECOO 7 or JAECOO 8?
Our guide will answer:
Which car has better styling?
Is the JAECOO 7 or JAECOO 8 better to drive?
Does the JAECOO 7 or JAECOO 8 have better tech?
Is the JAECOO 7 or JAECOO 8 more reliable?
What are the JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8 dimensions?
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: styling
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The JAECOO 7 and JAECOO 8 offer two distinct interpretations of the brand's ‘From Classic, Beyond Classic’ design philosophy.
The JAECOO 7 is unapologetically boxy, leaning into a rugged yet urban off-road look.
It features sharp, geometric lines and a tall, upright stance, contrasted by slim pixel-LED lighting and flush door handles.
In contrast, the JAECOO 8 trades a rugged look with a more premium aesthetic.
While it retains the signature waterfall grille, the J8 is significantly more elongated and fluid.
Its tapered roofline and integrated curves emphasise its more slippery aerodynamic shape to increase fuel efficiency.
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: what are they like to drive?
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They may be made in the same factory and have similar characteristics, but they’re totally different cars to drive.
The JAECOO 7, despite its off-road look, is primarily designed for towns and cities, though it isn’t afraid of some light off-road work.
To make it easier to drive in an urban environment, JAECOO has fitted it with light steering, and relatively compact dimensions make it easy to thread through traffic, but the ride is noticeably taut.
The suspension remains flat around corners, too, which is impressive for an SUV of this height.
At motorway speeds, it handles speed changes with ease and has absolutely no issue getting up to 70mph and staying there for many miles.
The JAECOO 7 can be had as either a petrol-only model, a self-charging hybrid (dubbed SHS-H) or a plug-in hybrid (SHS-P).
The JAECOO 8, on the other hand, offers a more executive driving feel.
All versions of the J8 come with a powerful plug-in hybrid system (SHS-P) that delivers instant electric torque, making this heavy SUV surprisingly quick (0–62 mph in 5.8 seconds).
Its standout feature is the Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension, which scans the road to adjust firmness in real-time. While it doesn't float like a limousine, it excels at absorbing bumps in the road.
It’s significantly quieter and more refined for long-distance driving, though its steering remains light and lacks the communicative feel some enthusiasts might prefer.
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: interior and technology
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The JAECOO 7’s cabin is dominated by a massive 14.8-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions, creating a clean, button-free environment.
While the materials are high-quality, the design remains practical, featuring exposed bolt motifs on the door handles to emphasise its tough persona.
Clever tech touches include a 50W cooled wireless charging pad and a 540-degree camera, meaning you can see underneath the car as well as around it.
Step into the JAECOO 8, and the atmosphere shifts toward pure luxury. Rather than the J7’s vertical layout, the J8 features a sophisticated horizontal cockpit dominated by a sweeping dual-curved display (12.3 inches each).
It feels less like a utility vehicle and more like a high-end lounge, offering proper isolation from the outside world, helped by a powerful 14-speaker Sony surround sound system.
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: boot space and practicality
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While the J7 provides a comfortable five-seat layout with premium synthetic leather, the J8 offers a first-class experience with either six or seven seats.
Either way, you’re getting an SUV with loads of space inside for five to seven people (depending on the model).
Boot space is also strong for both cars. The JAECOO 7 has 500 litres of space (410 litres for the plug-in hybrid), and the JAECOO 8 gets 110 litres (738 litres with two rows in place).
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: safety and reliability
Both the JAECOO 7 and 8 are engineered with safety in mind, featuring high-strength steel architectures and comprehensive ADAS systems.
The JAECOO 7 has already earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating, excelling in child and adult occupant protection. It comes standard with nearly two dozen safety features, though its alerts can occasionally be overly sensitive, which is no bad thing for a family car.
The JAECOO 8 has up to ten airbags and more refined sensors, providing a smoother experience for adaptive cruise control and lane centring.
Regarding reliability, both models benefit from the Chery Group’s extensive R&D. Since JAECOO is a newer brand, they combat scepticism with an industry-leading seven-year/100,000-mile warranty and an eight-year guarantee on hybrid batteries.
These vehicles have undergone extreme climate testing to ensure mechanical durability in harsh environments.
JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8: dimensions
JAECOO 7
Length: 4,500mm
Width: 1,865mm
Height: 1,680mm
Boot space: 500 litres
JAECOO 8
Length: 4,820mm
Width: 1,930mm
Height: 1,710mm
Boot space: 738 litres
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Verdict: JAECOO 7 vs. JAECOO 8 – which should you buy?
If you’re still not entirely sure which JAECOO SUV is for you, we’ll break down the simple differences for you.
You should buy a JAECOO 7 if...
You have a smaller budget
You don’t need a massive SUV
You want the option between petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid
You should buy a JAECOO 8 if...
Space is important to you
You want to maximise on luxury
You have a healthier budget
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