Introduction of Jaecoo J8 AWD
The Jaecoo J8 AWD is not just another large SUV made for city driving; it is a premium off-road machine built to combine luxury, technology, and ruggedness in one package. While most SUVs in this category are marketed as urban lifestyle vehicles, Jaecoo has taken a different approach. According to Emily Lake, Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia, the brand’s DNA has always focused on creating premium off-road SUVs, and the J8 proudly represents this philosophy. With a design that is handsome, refined, and equipped with advanced features, the Jaecoo J8 AWD promises duality – excellent on-road comfort and genuine off-road strength.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Design and Styling
The Jaecoo J8 AWD has been designed as a premium SUV that blends elegance with rugged off-road character. At first glance, the vehicle looks bold and imposing, with sharp lines, a floating roofline design, and a muscular stance. The dual-tone paint finish in the AWD model enhances its premium appeal, while 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin tires add to its road presence and durability. Subtle design cues like the chrome highlights, crystal-like trim details, and sleek LED lighting all contribute to a modern yet tough SUV design.
Compared to the two-wheel-drive version, the Jaecoo J8 AWD clearly distinguishes itself with a more stylish exterior. The premium touches and dual-tone paint give it an edge for customers looking for exclusivity along with practicality.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Jaecoo J8 AWD is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 249 PS and 385 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear shifts and responsive acceleration.
The all-wheel drive system sets the AWD model apart, giving it superior traction and stability on all surfaces. With features like Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control (DTVC), the SUV intelligently distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, ensuring stability even on rough and slippery terrains. The Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system adjusts the suspension in just 0.002 seconds, giving passengers a comfortable ride while maintaining control during off-road adventures.
Whether on highways or dirt tracks, the Jaecoo J8 AWD strikes a balance between luxury driving comfort and off-road toughness.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Top Speed
The Jaecoo J8 AWD may not be marketed as a sports SUV, but its performance numbers are respectable. With its turbocharged engine, it can reach a top speed of around 190–200 km/h, which is impressive for a large SUV designed with both comfort and ruggedness in mind. The 7-speed gearbox ensures steady power delivery, making highway cruising effortless while still maintaining excellent off-road response when needed.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Interior and Technology
Inside, the Jaecoo J8 AWD offers a premium cabin designed for comfort and sophistication. Unlike the 2WD model, the AWD version comes with real leather seats, wood trim, and suede finishing on the roof liner. The six-seater layout with captain seats in the second row is the highlight, offering supreme comfort with electronic adjustment and memory functions – a feature rarely found in SUVs at this price point.
Technology plays a central role in the cabin. The large curved display offers a futuristic look, while features like wireless charging pads, crystal-like design details, and soft-touch materials enhance the luxury feel. The 14-speaker Sony sound system ensures high-quality audio, while rear passengers also benefit from dedicated air-conditioning vents and premium seating comfort.
On the technology side, the Jaecoo J8 AWD is equipped with a 540-degree around-view monitor that makes off-road driving safer and easier. Multiple driving modes, including Eco, Sport, Normal, and Off-Road, ensure that the SUV adapts to all situations, from daily commutes to plantation tracks and muddy slopes.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Price in India
While the Jaecoo J8 AWD is priced at RM 198,800 in Malaysia, Indian pricing is expected to be competitive within the premium SUV market. Industry experts suggest the expected price range for India will be between ₹40 lakh to ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom). This places it in direct competition with models like the Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Meridian, and Skoda Kodiaq, offering buyers a unique mix of premium luxury and genuine off-road capability at a relatively affordable price point.
| Country | Price (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Malaysia | RM 198,800 |
| India | ₹40 – ₹45 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
Advantages of Jaecoo J8 AWD
- Premium design with dual-tone paint and Michelin tires.
- Luxurious interior with real leather, wood trim, and suede finishing.
- Six-seat layout with captain seats and memory function.
- Advanced tech including a 14-speaker Sony sound system and 540° camera.
- Genuine off-road ability with DTVC, CDC, and hill descent control.
- Competitive pricing compared to luxury SUVs with similar features.
Disadvantages of Jaecoo J8 AWD
- Top speed is modest compared to some premium SUVs.
- Low-profile 20-inch tires may not be ideal for extreme off-road conditions.
- Limited brand recognition in India compared to Toyota or Jeep.
- The 2WD version compromises on premium features like real leather and suede.
Jaecoo J8 AWD Color Options
The Jaecoo J8 AWD is expected to launch in India with a range of premium color options, including:
- Dual-tone Black with Silver roof (AWD exclusive)
- White Pearl
- Metallic Grey
- Dark Blue
- Red Wine
The dual-tone paint scheme with a floating roofline will be a key attraction for buyers looking for a premium and stylish SUV.
Final Review
The Jaecoo J8 AWD is a rare SUV that combines luxury and true off-road strength. Unlike many premium SUVs that are mostly urban lifestyle vehicles, the J8 AWD backs up its looks with genuine performance on rough terrains. Its premium design, high-quality interior, and advanced technology make it an excellent choice for families who want comfort, while its AWD system, torque vectoring, and hill descent control ensure it can handle plantations, estates, or rugged landscapes with ease.
At an expected price of ₹40–45 lakh in India, the Jaecoo J8 AWD undercuts many luxury SUVs while offering features and capabilities that match or even exceed them. If you are looking for an SUV that is not just stylish but also practical, powerful, and premium, the Jaecoo J8 AWD is a model that deserves serious attention.
