Just recently, I shared my experience with the all-electric Omoda E5, a model that is unlikely to make its way to local markets. However, I also had the opportunity to test the Jaecoo J6 EV, which appears to have a much higher chance of arriving here.
While its arrival is not officially confirmed, discussions with marketing representatives and its prominent presence on local websites strongly suggest that we can expect the Jaecoo J6 to land in 2025.
A Rebranded iCar 03
Jaecoo falls under Chery International, which also owns Omoda, Jetour, and the flagship Chery brand. In 2023, the company introduced an all-electric sub-brand in China called iCar, with the 03 being its first production model. The same vehicle is now being rebranded as the Jaecoo J6 for the South African market.
The J6 is a fully electric SUV available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and intelligent all-wheel drive (i-AWD) configurations. The i-AWD variant is powered by dual electric motors—one on each axle—delivering a combined output of 205kW and 385Nm of torque. This version also features multiple driving modes, including All-Road, Slippery, Sand, Muddy, and Bumpy, alongside the standard Eco, Standard, and Sport settings found in the RWD model.
Equipped with a 69.77-kWh battery, the i-AWD J6 boasts a claimed range of 418 km, with an average energy consumption of 19kWh per 100 km.
Key Features of the Jaecoo J6 EV
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive Options | RWD / i-AWD |
| Power (RWD) | 135kW, 220Nm |
| Power (i-AWD) | 205kW, 385Nm |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 6.5 sec (i-AWD), 8.91 sec (RWD) |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h |
| Battery Capacity | 69.77 kWh (i-AWD) / 65.69 kWh (RWD) |
| Range | 418 km (i-AWD), ~400 km (RWD) |
| Energy Consumption | 19kWh/100 km (i-AWD), 17.9kWh/100 km (RWD) |
| Charging Cost (Home) | ~R250 per full charge |
| Driving Modes | Eco, Standard, Sport, All-Road, Slippery, Sand, Muddy, Bumpy |
Rear-Wheel Drive Variant Arrives
During a short test drive in China, I briefly experienced the J6 in a controlled parking-lot setup. While this was not an ideal setting for a full evaluation, it provided a glimpse of the SUV’s performance. However, I later had the opportunity to spend a few weeks with the RWD model, which provided deeper insights into its capabilities.
The rear-wheel drive J6 houses a single electric motor producing 135kW and 220Nm of torque. Weighing in at 1,850kg, it is neither overly powerful nor exceptionally heavy compared to modern electric SUVs. The performance is not blisteringly fast, but it is adequate for everyday use.
Quick Acceleration—With a Catch
Despite its relatively modest power, the i-AWD version can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 6.5 seconds—approaching hot-hatch territory. The RWD model, on the other hand, managed a respectable 8.91 seconds in a test conducted with Racelogic VBOX equipment at Gerotek. Both variants have a limited top speed of 150 km/h, which is sufficient for an SUV with off-road aspirations.
However, there is a noticeable delay in throttle response when flooring the accelerator. Initially, nothing happens, and then, after a brief lag, the power surges forward all at once. While this does not affect normal driving, it can be frustrating when rapid acceleration is needed for overtaking or pulling away swiftly.
Low Running Costs
One of the most appealing aspects of the Jaecoo J6 is its efficiency. The AWD version comes with a slightly smaller 65.69-kWh battery but has a lower claimed energy consumption of 17.9kWh per 100 km. In real-world driving, this translated to approximately 400 km on a full charge, costing just R250 when charged at home. This level of efficiency is unmatched by any petrol or diesel-powered SUV.
Is the Jaecoo J6 EV Price Justified?
There is no doubt that the Jaecoo J6 will attract attention for its futuristic design, low running costs, and electric powertrain. However, pricing could be a crucial factor in its market success. Given current industry trends, it is unlikely that the J6 will be priced below R800,000, placing it firmly in the niche, low-volume segment.
While the Jaecoo J6 offers an appealing blend of technology, efficiency, and off-road capability, its final market reception will ultimately depend on how competitively it is priced. For those who prioritize low running costs and an electric SUV with decent range, the J6 presents an exciting option—if they are willing to pay the premium.
Related article: Jaecoo J7 & Omoda C9 Plug-In Hybrids Arriving in South Africa in 2025
