It is understandable to be skeptical of Chinese brands as a few have come up way short of expectations, either with their performance or the after-sales service. However, it is always a good idea to keep an open mind because you’ll find some interesting models in the bunch, including the JS8 Pro from JAC.

Unlike seven-seater mid-size SUV segment rivals, this crossover appears smaller because of its lower stance. It is longer and wider and has a longer wheelbase than established competitors.

The front fascia is dominated by a shiny grille topped off by a light bar connecting slim daytime running lamps sporting JAC’s unique lighting signature. On either side are LED headlamps. The sides show off its 19-inch alloy wheels, some thin body cladding, chic decorative fender fins, and a stylish accent by the rocker panel. Even the glasshouse emphasizes the sleek dimensions of the JS8 Pro because of how it tapers from the front to the rear windows. At the top is a panoramic sunroof, a pair of functional racks, and a fin antenna. Like the nose, a light bar at the rear connects the full-width LED taillights. The power tailgate is handy when you want to load things fast. It even has LED welcome lamps that project the logo by the door and look nice in dimly lit garages. I wish it didn’t have the faux dual tailpipes.

While it has notable premium features, the overall design does not stand out. The ‘wow’ factor comes much later after it’s been unlocked, or you notice the tailgate pop up automatically. You’ve heard the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’ That applies here.

Another impressive feature is the passive keyless entry system. Just click the button on the door handle to unlock when you have the smart key with you.

The cabin features a sophisticated black interior with a gray headliner. The cockpit matches the exterior styling with a modern layout that prioritizes the driver’s view with the flat-top padded dashboard. It has a leather multi-function wheel, a 12.3-inch full LCD instrument panel with a dimmer switch, and a 12.3-inch floating central touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth audio streaming. It sends audio to six speakers. You can connect your devices via the two USB ports in front. Between the front seats is a spacious center console with a cooling function, while at the bottom of the center stack is the rotary gear shifter, electronic parking brake, auto-hold button, and two cup holders. The two front seats are electronically adjustable and properly bolstered, while the entire cabin has leather upholstery. My only gripe is the internal clock that keeps advancing 19-20 minutes, regardless of how many times I adjust it. It only shows the correct time in CarPlay or Android Auto.

Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine that sends 182-horsepower and 300-Nm of torque to the front wheels. Acceleration is noticeably delayed, but it may be because I’ve activated auto-hold. Once it gets going, though, it is brisk, smooth, and can maintain 100-km/h at just over 1,500 RPM. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission eases elegantly to the next gears, whether shifting up or down. It returned 10.7-km/l in mixed driving conditions over seven days.

The JS8 Pro feels more maneuverable than its competitors and moves better in the tight confines of EDSA traffic and small parking spaces. Add the low roofline, and one can be fooled into thinking this is a compact crossover, but it isn’t, so a little extra care is necessary when getting boxed in by other vehicles. It feels stiff, but as I expected for a seven-seater, potholes, and road imperfections are just silenced thuds under you. What’s quite audible is the brake pedal. It needs a gentler release system because it becomes a bit jarring in stop-and-go traffic.

Plus, it has advanced safety features such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Hill-start Assist Control, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree panoramic camera.

The JAC JS8 Pro drives like a true mid-size with the sturdiness you’ll appreciate on PH roads without losing the comforts of a crossover. If you’re keen on getting a seven-seater but just don’t want to spend close to two million pesos to get one, test drive this to see why it deserves to be called a ‘pro.’

For a ₱1.350-million vehicle, it may look plain, but packs quite a lot of space and features for the price.