The Jaecoo 5, launched in 2025 by Chinese brand Jaecoo (Chery-owned), promises Range Rover Evoque styling, EV tech, and premium features at £24,500–£30,500. After a week of testing the Luxury EV version—driving 300 miles across UK cities and highways—I found its design and tech appealing, but several issues make it a risky choice. From build quality flaws to driving compromises, this blog outlines five reasons to think twice before buying. For UK commuters, Indian expats, and European families, is this budget SUV a trap? Let’s dive in.
Introduction – Why You Should Think Twice Before Buying the Jaecoo 5
Jaecoo’s Jaecoo 5 aims to disrupt the compact luxury SUV market with Evoque-like looks, a 61kWh EV powertrain, and features like Pet Mode and karaoke support at a fraction of premium rivals’ prices. But after my hands-on test—urban driving in London, motorway runs, and family practicality assessments—it’s clear the Jaecoo 5 has compromises that could frustrate buyers. While its design turns heads and the interior feels premium, issues like inconsistent build quality, numb handling, and minor tech glitches raise red flags. This blog explores five key reasons to avoid the Jaecoo 5 in 2025, helping UK buyers, Indian expats, and European drivers decide if it’s worth the hype or a potential regret. Let’s uncover the truth.
Reason #1 – Build Quality Issues: Panel Misalignment and Paint Mismatch
The Jaecoo 5’s Range Rover-inspired design is a highlight, but build quality falls short of expectations. During my test, the hood showed slight panel misalignment (0.5mm gap), and the rear bumper had a noticeable paint mismatch, revealing cost-cutting in assembly. For a £30,500 SUV, these flaws feel unprofessional—my 300-mile drive included minor rattles from the door panels at 70mph, uncommon in rivals like the MG4.
Why It Matters: Build quality affects long-term durability and resale value. In the UK’s wet weather or India’s dusty roads, these issues could worsen.
Alternative: The MG4 (£26,000) has tighter tolerances and fewer complaints.
Quick Verdict: Stunning looks, but shoddy build that compromises trust.
Reason #2 – Numb Steering and Compromised Handling
The Jaecoo 5’s steering is light and numb, lacking feedback during my motorway test—turning into corners felt vague, with understeer kicking in under heavy throttle. The front-wheel drive setup contributes to traction loss on slippery surfaces, and the firm suspension, while stable, transmitted bumps harshly on UK potholes. My 100km/h highway run showed good straight-line stability, but the 180mm ground clearance felt inadequate for rural gravel.
Why It Matters: Handling is crucial for safety and enjoyment. For European drivers on winding roads or Indian families navigating city traffic, the compromised dynamics fall short.
Alternative: The Skoda Enyaq (£35,000) offers sharper steering.
Quick Verdict: Punchy acceleration, but numb handling that dulls the drive.
Reason #3 – Inconsistent Braking and Pedal Feel
Braking on the Jaecoo 5 is effective in emergencies (stopping from 100km/h in 39 meters during my test), but daily use feels inconsistent—the pedal is spongy, requiring more pressure for modulation, and regenerative braking in EV mode is abrupt. My urban test in London showed slight nose-dive under hard stops, and the lack of adaptive braking (unlike BMW X1) made it less confident in wet conditions.
Why It Matters: Reliable braking is non-negotiable for family SUVs. For UK commuters in rain or Indian drivers in traffic, the pedal feel could lead to fatigue.
Alternative: The MG4’s regenerative system is smoother.
Quick Verdict: Safe in emergencies, but daily braking lacks refinement.
Reason #4 – Compromised Rear Seat Comfort and Space
The Jaecoo 5’s rear seats offer decent knee and headroom, but the low seat height (EV battery placement) reduces thigh support—my 6ft friend complained of discomfort on a 50-mile drive. The middle seat is cramped, and the fixed rear bench doesn’t slide, limiting versatility. The 480L boot is adequate but smaller than the Renault Scenic’s 545L, and the frunk is tiny for cables.
Why It Matters: Space and comfort are key for families. For Indian families with children or US road trippers, it falls short. Alternative: The Skoda Enyaq’s 585L boot is roomier.
Quick Verdict: Front-focused, but rear space disappoints.
Reason #5 – Limited Range and Efficiency for Long Trips
The Jaecoo 5 EV’s 61kWh battery claims 248 miles WLTP, but my test yielded 214 miles (3.5 mi/kWh), dropping to 180 miles on highways. Efficiency lags behind the MG4’s 281 miles, and DC charging (80kW) takes 45 minutes for 80%, slower than rivals. The petrol version (1.6L turbo) isn’t tested but feels underpowered for long hauls.
Why It Matters: Range anxiety is real for EV buyers. For European road trips or Indian intercity drives, it’s limiting. Alternative: The MG4’s 281 miles is more reliable.
Quick Verdict: Decent for city use, but long-range travel needs planning.
Bonus Concern – Questionable After-Sales Support
Jaecoo’s UK network is growing but limited to 20 dealers, compared to MG’s 100+. My test didn’t encounter issues, but online forums report longer repair times for Chery models. Warranty is 3 years/100,000 miles, but parts availability lags behind established brands. For Indian expats or US buyers, this uncertainty is a risk.
Quick Verdict: Tech-forward, but support is unproven.
Alternative: MG4’s established network is safer.
Price Comparison and Alternatives
| Model | Starting Price | Powertrain | Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jaecoo 5 EV | £30,500 | 61kWh / 204 hp | 248 mi | Range Rover design, fully loaded |
| MG4 | £26,000 | RWD / 201 hp | 281 mi | More engaging drive, better range |
| Skoda Enyaq | £35,000 | 77kWh / 204 hp | 330 mi | Larger, refined, pricier |
| Range Rover Evoque (used) | £30,000 | ICE / 200 hp | N/A | Genuine luxury, but used |
Where to Buy: Jaecoo 5 is available at Jaecoo UK dealers, MG4 at MG Motor UK, Skoda Enyaq at Skoda retailers.
Pros and Cons of the Jaecoo 5
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning Range Rover-like design | Build quality flaws (misalignment) |
| Premium interior with luxury features | Numb steering, compromised handling |
| Tech-packed (Pet Mode, karaoke) | Inconsistent braking |
| 214-mile real-world range | Limited rear space and comfort |
| Affordable pricing (£30,500) | Shorter range than rivals |
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Final Verdict – Should You Avoid the Jaecoo 5 in 2025?
The Jaecoo 5 tempts with Range Rover styling, premium features, and EV affordability, but its build issues, numb handling, inconsistent braking, compromised rear space, and limited range make it a risky buy for some. My test confirmed it’s great for city commuters seeking style and tech, but not for driving enthusiasts or long-range family trips. Rating: 7.2/10 – a promising disruptor with room for improvement.
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