2025 Jaecoo E5 Review: A Rugged Yet Refined Plug-in SUV Challenger

The Jaecoo E5 is one of the first global products from Jaecoo, the SUV brand launched by Chery (also behind Omoda). Slotting into the compact crossover-SUV segment and directly challenging the likes of Toyota RAV4 PHEV, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and MG HS PHEV, the E5 mixes sharp styling, a tech-packed interior, and a capable plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

Built on the T1X platform, shared with other Chery models, the Jaecoo E5 is engineered for both efficiency and off-road toughness — aided by selectable terrain modes, decent ground clearance, and an electrified AWD system (depending on market). The interior aims at a premium feel, using recycled or soft-touch finishes with dual-screen infotainment.

By focusing on affordability without sacrificing technology, the E5 could emerge as one of the most important challengers from Chinese automakers in Europe, Southeast Asia, and other emerging EV/hybrid markets.

What They’re Saying

The Good

1. “Stylish rugged design that stands out from sterile rivals.” — AutoExpress

2. “Generous electric-only range makes real-world driving cheaper.” — InsideEVs

3. “Cabin feels high-tech and premium, far beyond expectations at this price.” — TopGear

4. “Strong focus on global safety standards with advanced ADAS features.” — Autocar

5. “Ride and noise refinement are much improved over earlier Chery cars.” — CarBuyer

The Bad

1. “Unknown long-term reliability may concern European buyers.” — WhatCar?

2. “Steering feels light at high speeds, lacking sportiness.” — AutoTrader UK

3. “Infotainment software still needs polish.” — Carwow

4. “Pricing could creep close to established rivals once options are added.” — Autocar

5. “Limited brand recognition outside China could limit appeal initially.” — MotorTrend

Key Specifications Overview

• Powertrain: Plug-in Hybrid (1.5L turbo + electric motor)

• System Output: ~255 hp combined

• Battery: 19.3 kWh lithium-ion

• EV-only Range (WLTP est.): ~100 km

• Total Range (Hybrid mode): >1,000 km

• Torque: ~320 Nm combined

• 0–100 km/h: ~7.8 seconds

• Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT)

• Weight: ~1,800–1,900 kg

• Drivetrain: FWD / AWD (market-dependent)

• Price: ~£32,000 (UK entry est.) / ~€36,000 in EU

Key Specifications Table

Key Geographical Variations Table

Price Range Table

Performance and Driving Experience Overview

On road, the Jaecoo E5 prioritises smoothness and ease of use. The hybrid system blends petrol and electric power seamlessly, while EV-only mode offers quiet urban driving for up to 100 km. Acceleration is respectable thanks to instant electric torque, though the handling feels tuned for comfort rather than sportiness. Steering is light in town but lacks feedback at motorway speeds. Suspension is balanced, soaking up bumps well, though spirited drivers may find it less engaging than rivals.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the E5 impresses with its digital-first approach: a large central 14.8-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, wireless smartphone connectivity, and over-the-air update capability. The cabin materials feel above its price segment in higher trims, featuring eco-leather, soft touch panels, and ambient lighting. Practicality is decent, with foldable rear seats, but the EV battery slightly reduces boot capacity compared to ICE competitors.

Exterior Design and Styling

The E5 mixes rugged SUV cues with modern design language. Highlights include the bold grille, slim LED headlights, aggressive bumper contours, and a floating roof effect. Black cladding and elevated ground clearance reinforce the SUV/off-road image, while the rear light bar gives a premium feel reminiscent of European designs.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The E5 comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, traffic jam assist, and 360° cameras in higher trims. Multiple airbags and robust passive safety engineering bring it in line with Euro NCAP-ready standards.

Battery and Range Considerations

The 19.3 kWh battery supports ~100 km WLTP EV range, plenty for daily commutes. Fast charging at up to 50 kW DC allows a 30-minute top-up from 20–80%. In hybrid mode, the petrol engine ensures over 1,000 km total range without charging anxiety, providing an advantage over pure EV rivals for long journeys.

At a Glance Table

Pros and Cons Overview

The 2025 Jaecoo E5 offers bold styling, generous EV-only range, and modern tech in a competitively priced plug-in package. It feels premium beyond its badge, but concerns remain around brand recognition, software polish, and long-term reliability. Still, for value-driven buyers who want style and electrification without premium pricing, it’s one of the most intriguing new SUVs.

Pros and Cons Table

Overall Verdict

The 2025 Jaecoo E5 is an impressive debut from a new global Chinese brand, blending rugged SUV design with true plug-in functionality at an attainable price. While it may not dethrone the Toyota RAV4 PHEV or Mitsubishi Outlander immediately, its strong EV range, refined cabin, and competitive pricing make it a genuine alternative. Buyers willing to try a newer brand could find the E5 an excellent balance of innovation and value.

Sources

• AutoExpress (First Look, June 2025)

• TopGear UK (Preview Feature, July 2025)

• Autocar (Launch Report, May 2025)

• CarBuyer UK (Review, August 2025)

• Carwow (Hands-On, July 2025)

• InsideEVs (Global PHEV Comparison, 2025)

• MotorTrend (Market Outlook, 2025)