Get ready to meet the Jaecoo J5, Malaysia’s newest pet-friendly B-segment SUV that’s turning heads and sparking conversations. But here’s where it gets controversial: while it’s positioned as a premium contender, its price tag and features have some wondering if it’s truly worth the hype. Let’s dive in.
First previewed in August 2025, the Jaecoo J5 has finally hit Malaysian shores, marking a bold move for Chery’s premium-aspiring brand. This compact SUV is gunning for heavyweights like the Proton X50 and Honda HR-V, while also stepping up from its sibling, the Chery Tiggo Cross. And this is the part most people miss: despite its premium aspirations, the J5 shares its DNA with the Tiggo Cross, though it’s priced significantly higher.
Offered in a single 2WD variant, the J5 comes with a price tag of RM108,000 (excluding on-the-road costs and insurance). But wait—there’s a catch. Until March 15, buyers can snag an RM8,000 launch package, which includes a RM3,000 duit Raya rebate, a choice between free first-year insurance or an additional RM3,000 duit Raya (bringing the price down to RM102,000), and a trio of accessories worth RM2,000. These aren’t your average freebies—think a boot-mounted subwoofer, a wireless karaoke microphone, and a multi-functional flashlight. Yes, you read that right.
Here’s the kicker: the J5 is RM13,600 pricier than the Tiggo Cross Turbo, just RM570 more than the Proton X50 Premium, and RM13,530 cheaper than the base Honda HR-V 1.5 S. But remember, the HR-V’s base model is naturally aspirated, while the turbo variant costs at least RM28,520 more. Is the J5’s premium positioning justified, or is it overreaching?
Under the hood, the J5 packs a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine delivering 147 PS and 210 Nm of torque—identical to the Tiggo Cross. However, unlike the Tiggo’s six-speed dual-clutch transmission, the J5 opts for a CVT. Despite this, it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, slightly quicker than its sibling, and hits a top speed of 175 km/h. Fuel efficiency is rated at 7.5 liters per 100 km (13.3 km per liter).
Size-wise, the J5 sits at the larger end of the B-segment, measuring 4,380 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall. It’s wider and taller than both the HR-V and X50, with a wheelbase that’s 10 mm longer than the X50’s. Interestingly, its dimensions are closer to the Chery O5 (formerly Omoda 5), which is just 20 mm longer.
Design-wise, the J5 takes cues from luxury SUVs like the Range Rover, boasting an upright stance, clean lines, and a wraparound glasshouse. Slim LED projector headlights, dual-bar daytime running lights, and a large ‘waterfall’ grille dominate the front, while slim taillights connected by a black bar complete the rear. It rides on 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels with Chaoyang Aggressor tires, paired with MacPherson strut front suspension and a rare-for-the-segment multilink rear setup.
Inside, the J5 continues its minimalist theme with a horizontal dashboard, full-width air vents, and a waterfall-style center console. The star here is the 13.2-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, there’s no digital instrument cluster—just an eight-inch seven-segment LCD. Is this a missed opportunity for a ‘premium’ SUV?
What sets the J5 apart is its pet-friendly certification by TÜV. The faux leather upholstery is anti-bacterial, scratch-resistant, and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Buyers can also purchase pet-friendly accessories like nets, mats, and carriers. Boot space is generous at 480 liters, expanding to 1,284 liters with the rear seats folded.
Standard features include power-adjustable ventilated front seats, dual-zone auto climate control, multi-color ambient lighting, a panoramic glass roof, and a 360-degree camera system. On the safety front, the J5 offers Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and autonomous emergency braking, along with unique additions like curve speed assist and door opening warning.
So, is the Jaecoo J5 a game-changer or just another contender in a crowded segment? Its pet-friendly focus and premium features are undoubtedly appealing, but its pricing and CVT choice might leave some questioning its value. What do you think—is the J5 worth the hype, or does it fall short of its premium aspirations? Let us know in the comments!
