How Does the Jaecoo 5 Stack Up Against the Range Rover Evoque?
If you’ve been eyeing the compact SUV market, you’ve probably noticed the Range Rover Evoque dominating headlines. But there’s a new contender on the horizon: the Jaecoo 5. Built by Chery-owned Jaecoo, this crossover is making its UK debut and aims to shake up the segment with a blend of style, tech, and value.
So, how does it compare to the Evoque? For starters, the Jaecoo 5 is targeting the same urban adventurers—drivers who want a premium look and feel without the premium price tag. While the Evoque leans heavily on its luxury badge, the Jaecoo 5 is carving out its own identity with bold design cues borrowed from its larger sibling, the Jaecoo 7, and a focus on practicality.
What Powertrain Options Will Be Available?
Here’s where things get interesting. Unlike many rivals launching with hybrid or electric powertrains, the Jaecoo 5 is arriving first with a petrol engine—a 1.6-litre turbocharged unit expected to deliver 187bhp and 203lb ft of torque. That’s paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, promising a punchy yet refined drive for city streets and country lanes alike.
But if you’re holding out for an electric option, you won’t have to wait long. Jaecoo has confirmed that an EV variant is in the pipeline, likely mirroring the Omoda E5’s specs: 201bhp, a 61kWh battery, and an estimated 257-mile range. For context, that’s competitive with other mainstream electric SUVs and should ease range anxiety for most daily drivers.
How Does the Jaecoo 5 Look and Feel Inside and Out?
First impressions matter, and the Jaecoo 5 delivers. Its exterior is a scaled-down version of the Jaecoo 7, featuring a striking front grille, sleek LED lighting, and a more dynamic, raked roofline. The result? A compact SUV that looks more expensive than it is.
Step inside, and you’ll notice a few differences from its bigger sibling. The infotainment screen is slightly smaller (exact dimensions are still under wraps), and the driver’s display is now integrated into the dashboard rather than floating above it. These tweaks help the cabin feel modern without being overwhelming.
Trim levels are straightforward: Pure and Luxury. Even the base Pure model comes well-equipped, boasting a six-speaker audio system, six-way adjustable seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Opt for Luxury, and you’ll get a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, and heated and ventilated front seats—features that are often reserved for pricier competitors.
How Does the Jaecoo 5 Fit Into the UK Market?
Jaecoo might be a new name to some, but its parent company Chery has been quietly making waves in the UK. The larger Jaecoo 7, for example, has already racked up nearly 6,000 sales since its launch earlier this year. That’s no small feat in a market crowded with established brands.
The Jaecoo 5 rides on the T1X platform, which it shares with the Omoda 5, 7, and 9, as well as the newly revealed Omoda 3. This shared architecture allows Jaecoo to offer a competitive package at a sharper price point, without sacrificing quality or safety. According to a 2023 report from JATO Dynamics, platform sharing has helped automakers reduce production costs by up to 30%, savings that often get passed on to buyers.
What About Pricing and Availability?
Here’s the catch: final pricing, delivery dates, and the full technical spec haven’t been announced yet. But with the official reveal just around the corner, expect details to emerge soon. If Jaecoo’s pricing strategy for the 7 is any indication, the 5 should undercut many rivals while still offering a robust feature set.
Why Should You Consider the Jaecoo 5 Over Other Crossovers?
It’s easy to get swept up in the hype around established brands, but the Jaecoo 5 offers a compelling alternative. You’re getting a fresh design, a choice of petrol or electric power, and a feature list that punches above its weight. Plus, with Chery’s growing presence in the UK, aftersales support and parts availability are becoming less of a concern.
The big takeaway? Choosing your next crossover isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, like test-driving a Jaecoo 5, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.