Expert tests the Chinese Range Rover to see how it compares to the real thing

The Jaecoo 7, often nicknamed the ‘Chinese Range Rover’, is making waves in the SUV market.

With bold looks, modern tech, and a price that undercuts the competition, it’s easy to see why it’s a rising star in the mid-size SUV market.

But does it offer more than just eye-catching design and a budget-friendly price?

Mat Watson from Carwow got behind the wheel to find out if the Jaecoo 7 can really take on the big names.

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At first glance, it’s easy to see why people are calling it a ‘Chinese Range Rover’.

The design is bold and modern, featuring a massive front grille and sharp LED headlight graphics.

Along the sides, flush-fitting pop-out door handles add to the sleek profile.

And around the back, the hidden rear wiper, which is also present in the Range Rover, is a neat premium touch.

However, the real draw of the Jaecoo 7 is the price, although it’s still not nearly as cheap as this $4,000 fake Range Rover from Alibaba.

In a world where SUV prices keep climbing, Watson notes that Jaecoo 7 starts at around £27,500 ($37,223), which is significantly cheaper than many of its rivals.

In fact, based on his initial impression of the car, the YouTuber estimates that the car would have cost closer to £40,000 ($54,162) if it had been made by a European manufacturer.

Inside, the cabin is tech-focused and fairly impressive.

There’s a large central infotainment screen handling most functions, a fully digital driver’s display, and even a heads-up display as standard.

The infotainment screen gives you a lot of control over many features within the car, from adjusting the speed of the windshield wipers to turning on speed alerts.

However, making adjustments to these features while driving may prove difficult (or at least annoying).

This is because the car will prompt you whenever you’re not staring straight ahead, even for just a second.

Nevertheless, the layout is modern and clean, although Watson noted the seats aren’t the most plush.

Still, with decent storage and responsive tech, it’s a pleasant space overall.

Under the bonnet, buyers have two engine choices.

There’s a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol with 147 horsepower, available in either front or all-wheel drive.

Alternatively, the 1.5-litre PHEV serves up a more punchy 204 horsepower, but only powers the front wheels.

So what’s the verdict?

Well, according to Watson, he would recommend buyers to consider the Jaecoo 7, especially if they aren’t exactly car people.

While this ‘Chinese Range Rover’ is definitely value-for-money, and looks great, he advised people who enjoy driving to buy a Range Rover instead.

Regardless, it would seem that the Jaecoo 7 will have its own niche, which is not surprising, given that the brand recently dethroned Tesla as the biggest-selling EV brand in the UK.

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