Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 – Chery South Africa has officially ignited a revolution in the local SUV market with the high-profile launch of two stunning hybrid SUVs – the Omoda C9 and the Jaecoo J7 – on 5 June 2025. Priced at R999,900 and R689,900 respectively, these premium crossovers bring futuristic design, cutting-edge technology, and fuel-saving hybrid efficiency to a segment that’s been waiting for an aggressive disruptor. The automotive buzz is at fever pitch as thousands of South Africans are flooding showrooms, eager to experience what Chery’s global EV-forward strategy has to offer. Omoda and Jaecoo are Chery’s sub-brands created to target style-conscious and tech-hungry drivers. The Omoda C9 is a full-size hybrid SUV packed with luxury features, while the Jaecoo J7 offers a more rugged, off-road-focused aesthetic with city-smart features and a powerful hybrid system. Both models are part of Chery’s aggressive expansion plan in South Africa, aiming to challenge traditional market leaders like Toyota, Hyundai, and Volkswagen. From the eye-catching futuristic design to the luxury interiors and power-packed hybrid engines, these SUVs have turned heads and drawn comparisons with brands that are far more expensive. But can they truly deliver the punch they promise? Let’s dive into everything these two new models bring to the table and why they’re causing a frenzy among South African SUV lovers.
Omoda C9 Hybrid SUV – Features That Challenge Luxury Segments
The Omoda C9 enters the scene with ambitions to compete directly with premium segment SUVs, offering hybrid efficiency combined with high-end comforts.
- Launch Price: R999,900 (introductory)
- Segment: Large Hybrid Crossover SUV
- Engine: 1.5T Petrol Hybrid with Electric Motor
- Power Output: 240 kW combined
- Claimed Range: 1,100 km (Hybrid Mode)
- Drive Type: AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
- Boot Space: 550 litres
Omoda C9 Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L Turbo Petrol Hybrid |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
| Peak Power | 240 kW combined output |
| Torque | 510 Nm |
| Acceleration (0–100) | 7.2 seconds |
| Battery Range (EV) | 70 km pure electric |
| Drive System | All-Wheel Drive |
| Infotainment | 15.6” Touchscreen, 12.3” Cluster |
Jaecoo J7 Hybrid – Rugged Look, Urban Mindset
Jaecoo is aimed at blending off-road capability with premium urban design. The J7 is for those who want muscle in the bush and class in the city.
- Launch Price: R689,900
- Segment: Mid-size Crossover SUV
- Engine: 1.6L Turbo Petrol Hybrid
- Power Output: 170 kW
- Claimed Range: 980 km (Hybrid Mode)
- Drive Type: FWD with AWD Option
- Key Highlight: Off-road modes + Panoramic Sunroof
Jaecoo J7 Key Specs & Highlights
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid |
| Transmission | 7-Speed DCT |
| Horsepower | 170 kW |
| Torque | 380 Nm |
| Off-Road Modes | Mud, Sand, Snow |
| Ground Clearance | 210 mm |
| Infotainment | 14” Touchscreen, Wireless Android Auto |
| Safety | 360° Camera, ADAS, Blind Spot Monitor |
What Makes These Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 SUVs Stand Out from Competition?
With aggressive pricing and full-loaded features, both Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 undercut major rivals while offering more tech and space.
Competitive Edge Breakdown
| Feature | Omoda C9 | Jaecoo J7 | RAV4 Hybrid | Haval H6 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | R999,900 | R689,900 | R768,100 | R679,950 |
| Power Output | 240 kW | 170 kW | 160 kW | 179 kW |
| Drive System | AWD | FWD/AWD | AWD | FWD |
| Infotainment Screen | 15.6” | 14” | 10.5” | 12.3” |
| Hybrid Battery Range | 70 km | 60 km | 65 km | 55 km |
| Boot Space | 550L | 490L | 520L | 500L |
| Safety Suite | Full ADAS + L2 | ADAS Level 1 | Toyota TSS | Haval Safety Pack |
Chery’s Expansion in South Africa – A Game Plan in Motion
Chery has rapidly grown to over 150 dealerships across South Africa and aims to double that number by 2026. The arrival of the Omoda and Jaecoo brands confirms Chery’s multi-brand strategy.
Key Chery Plans in SA
- New Assembly Plant: Talks underway to build local plant by mid-2026
- EV Focus: Over 4 new electric or hybrid models to launch by Q1 2026
- Dealer Expansion: Targeting 300+ network by end-2025
- After-Sales Support: 5-year/150,000 km warranty + Roadside Assistance
- Chery App Integration: Remote engine start, GPS tracking, Service Booking
Interior & Design – Luxury Vibes at Half the Price
Step inside either of these hybrids and you’ll feel like you’re in a R1.5M luxury SUV. From floating dashboards to ambient lighting, these models leave a lasting impression.
Interior Highlights of Omoda C9 & Jaecoo J7
| Feature | Omoda C9 | Jaecoo J7 |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard Layout | Dual-Screen, Floating Panel | Integrated Minimalist Screen |
| Seat Upholstery | Nappa Leather | Premium Synthetic Leather |
| Ambient Lighting | 64-Colour LED Lighting | Multi-tone Ambient Light |
| Sunroof | Panoramic Glass | Sliding Panoramic |
| Climate Control | 3-Zone | Dual-Zone |
| Rear Space | Reclining Rear Seats | Flat Floor Design |
| Boot Opening | Electric Tailgate | Powered Tailgate |
Safety & Technology – Smart, Connected & Safe
Both SUVs come with top-tier safety and advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), giving peace of mind to South African families and adventurers alike.
Safety & Smart Tech Features
- Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- 360° Around View Monitor
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Driver Drowsiness Detection
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
Pricing, Availability & Contact Info
Chery’s nationwide launch of the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 took place on 5 June 2025, with immediate bookings open across major dealerships.
Pricing Summary Table
| Model | Launch Price | Fuel Type | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omoda C9 | R999,900 | Hybrid | Available Now |
| Jaecoo J7 | R689,900 | Hybrid | Available Now |
| Optional Packs | R25,000–R50K | ADAS/Interior | Dealer-Fitted |
| EMI Options | From R8,990 | With Deposit | All Chery Dealers |
Departmental & Dealer Contact Details
- Chery South Africa Head Office
96 14th Road, Midrand, Gauteng, South Africa
Tel: +27 10 823 8260
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chery.co.za - Omoda Brand Inquiries
Tel: +27 87 356 5400
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.omoda.co.za - Jaecoo Brand Support
Tel: +27 87 356 5800
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jaecoo.co.za - Roadside Assistance
24/7 Helpline: 0860 243 779
[email protected]
The arrival of the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 marks a bold new chapter in South Africa’s SUV market. Combining luxury, efficiency, and affordability, Chery’s new hybrids are poised to disrupt the status quo. Whether you’re an urban commuter or an adventurous family, these SUVs offer something exceptional. And with aggressive pricing, extended warranties, and nationwide availability, it’s no wonder that South African buyers are lining up in droves.
FAQs of Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7
Q1: What warranty comes with the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7?
Both SUVs come with a 5-year/150,000 km mechanical warranty and 8-year battery warranty.
Q2: Are these models manufactured in South Africa?
Currently imported, but Chery is planning local assembly from 2026 onwards.
Q3: Do both SUVs support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Yes, both models offer wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Q4: What are the monthly EMI plans for these SUVs?
EMIs start from R8,990/month for Jaecoo J7 and R12,500/month for Omoda C9, depending on deposit.
Q5: Which model is better for off-road use?
The Jaecoo J7 is better suited for off-roading with its higher ground clearance and terrain modes.