The Jaecoo 7, a Chinese SUV from the Chery spin-off brand, became the UK's best-selling vehicle in March 2026 with 10,064 units registered, surpassing the Ford Puma. However, a car expert who test-drove the plug-in hybrid last summer highlights two critical problems: poor handling and intrusive safety technology.
Record Sales but Flawed Ride
Luke Chillingsworth, a cars reporter, praised the Jaecoo 7 for its extensive 700-plus-mile range and affordable price tag under £30,000. The interior features leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, mood lighting, and voice commands, earning it the nickname “Temu Range Rover.” Yet, he found the ride quality disappointing. “The steering is smooth and light in urban areas, but that’s sort of where the comfort ends,” he wrote. On a gravel car park, the SUV bounced erratically, which he described as unexpected for a tough SUV.
Intelligent Speed Assistance Annoyance
The second issue involves the Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) system, designed to alert drivers when they take their eyes off the road. Chillingsworth noted the system is overly sensitive, triggering with simple glances at side mirrors or road signs. “Looking directly ahead 24/7 is not how driving works,” he said. The repetitive bleep sound is so jarring that it can distract drivers as they try to turn it off.
Despite these flaws, the Jaecoo 7 remains popular among UK motorists seeking a luxury SUV at a budget price. Chillingsworth concluded that while the car is a revelation in affordability and range, these two issues hold it back from perfection.
