Jaecoo J6 EV coming soon to the Philippines

If you find the current selection of mini-SUVs short on power and pull, that will change when Chinese brand, Jaecoo, introduces its electric five-door model called the J6 to the Philippine market.

The world saw it as a concept, and under the name iCar 03 at the Chengdu Motor Show last year. The production version came out just a few months later and retains all of the initial specifications. 

So, what can you expect from the J6 EV? Well, let’s get the obvious out of the way first. It shares the squarish proportions of the Jimny and is also a five-door designed to seat four (but can squeeze in a fifth passenger). Other than that, it can stand alone and hold its own versus rivals in the segment. 

While we do not have the final specifications yet as the model we saw (and drove) is a pre-launch version, we know enough to whet your appetite for it. 

Exterior

The boxy body sits low to the ground for better stability and aerodynamics. It has slim lighting features with cool shapes and futuristic sequential effects, plastic bumpers, a panoramic sunroof, and 19-inch wheels. 

Electric powertrain

It has two propulsion options: a rear motor, rear-wheel drive version, and a dual-motor, all-wheel drive version. The Philippines will get the dual-motor variant (283-PS and 385-Nm of torque) with an electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive layout. You will be able to tell because it has the iWD badge at the rear. The range is 500 kilometers.

Ultra-modern cabin

The units we saw in China had different cabin upholsteries: one had army green leather while the other was a mix of white and brown. It also has an Infinity speaker system, a tablet-like infotainment touchscreen, a wireless charging pad, and four USB ports (two Type-As, two Type-Bs). 

The gear selector is on a stalk located on the right side of the steering column while the jewel-like bezel on the center console is the drive mode selector (Bumpy, Muddy, Beach, Slippery, All Road, Custom, Sport, Normal, Eco). 

A lot of electronics

Almost everything in the J6 is electronically-controlled. The climate control system is in the touchscreen while a button replaces the lever inside to open the doors. The four-passenger doors have flush door handles that flip out when unlocked while the fifth door has the touch button. Even the charging port cover opens and closes electronically. 

First impressions

The ceiling is low so it could be an issue for tall drivers. Seat comfort is on the firm side and is bolstered enough to keep you secure during spirited driving. 

All the power and torque did not disappoint during the acceleration test. Even before the pedal hit the metal, it was off to a neck-snapping start. It breezed through the chicane gracefully and displayed its impressive turning radius in the small, makeshift rotunda. That short route was the only seat time we had, but I came away impressed. 

The rear storage is not very big but the second-row seats fold flat to increase cargo space, and an accessory or equipment box can be attached to the fifth door.

When and how much?

We will see the Jaecoo 7 and 8 before we even get to the 6, but this model is what a few dealers are excited about because of its design, tech, and powertrain. It is still up in the air whether the Philippine market will get the same specs as these model units but all indicators say, yes.

Jaecoo Philippines said the price will be around P1.7-million. Will it be fair enough? But more importantly, will it be good enough to entice buyers in the mini-SUV segment? We will have to wait and see.