Exterior

The Jaecoo J6 features a geometric, upright silhouette that is highlighted by rugged plastic flared fenders, flush pop-out door handles, and a distinctive – faux spare wheel – rear-mounted storage compartment. The front sports a striking, futuristic look characterized by “I-motif” boomerang-shaped LED headlights that light up in a unique sequence. The lower bumper is framed by a rugged black plastic cladding, brushed aluminium accents, and integrated LED fog lamps. Our tester’s looks are further uplifted by its green paint job; if that’s not your thing, four other colours are also available, namely black, white, silver and grey.

The rear of the vehicle continues the blocky aesthetic with a side-hinged “barn-door” style tailgate. The rectangular-shaped rear storage compartment is perfect for stowing away dirty gear or charging cables. The taillights mirror the front’s “I-motif” design. The J6 features an aerodynamic set of 18-inch alloy wheels, and its structural setup is geared towards light off-roading, offering a solid 225 mm of ground clearance, alongside a highly rigid, chassis. Overall, the J6 cuts a very box-like stance. It’s just over 4.4 metres long, making it quite compact for Sri Lankan users. But, at over 1.9 metres wide, it requires a little care when driving down narrow streets.

Interior

The J6 cabin features a retro-modern, angular design that perfectly matches its boxy exterior. Combining rugged off-road cues with plush, high-end comforts, the space is airy and tech-forward. Drivers and passengers are treated to a minimalist layout heavily dominated by a central touchscreen. The dashboard is clean, relying almost entirely on the massive central infotainment system. Many vehicle operations, including climate control and seat settings, are routed through this display rather than physical buttons.

Touches like exposed screw heads on the door panels and sturdy centre console grab handles give the cabin a tough, adventurous vibe. The seats are wrapped in a soft synthetic leather and both front seats and rear seats are ventilated! Meanwhile, the front seat head rests feature aircraft-style adjustable ‘wings’ for added head bolstering.

The interior features custom geometric ambient lighting and a glowing “I” motif beneath the main screen. Despite the rugged silhouette, legroom and headroom are generous. The cabin feels bright and open thanks to a large, functional panoramic sunroof. The cabin boasts intelligent software and some environment settings, including “Nap Mode” and “Pet Mode,” along with a decent speaker system.

Driving the J6

The J6 doesn’t just look like it can tackle various types of terrain – it has the potential to do so. Powering the rear wheels is an electric motor that produces a total of 135kW and 220Nm of torque. It is said that it can go from 0 to 100km/h in some 10 seconds. Combined with the tall ride height, Traction Control System (TCS), Body Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) & Hill Descent Control (HDC), one could be confident that it will get you back to civilization in case you encounter unexpected weather or difficult terrain…

Our day of driving the J6 started from the Jaecoo Showroom where the good folk from Hayleys Mobility started that Saturday morning with some 93% battery charge. I was picked up from Thalawathugoda after they had picked up my colleagues Ashraaq and Mahen on the way. Our destination – Galle, via the Southern Expressway.

The driving seat of the J6 is a comfortable, relaxed, and distinctive place. The seats are very ergonomic and offers a commanding view in front of you. By the time we reached the entrance to the Southern Expressway at Athurugiriya it registered some 86% charge and an indicated range of some 390 kms.

On the Expressway at 100km/h, the J6 was whisper-quiet; so much so that I had to check several times to check that we were in fact doing 100km/h. While it is not a sports car, the J6 acceleration is smooth, linear, and perfectly adequate for navigating local traffic and safe highway overtaking. When on the open road, I had several opportunities to check some of the unique features of the J6. I checked out the Intelligent Voice Assistant (Hello Jaecoo!) by asking it to reset the temperature of the cabin, opening and closing the sunroof and changing the radio station. We also checked out the Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system by purposely drifting towards lane markings. If the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated, the system provides visual/audible alerts and applies corrective steering or braking to gently guide the car back to safety.

Unlike traditional stiff off roaders, the suspension of the J6 handles road bumps seamlessly. The steering is light without being wayward. The turning circle is highly manageable, making narrow roads and parking in and around the narrow streets of the Galle Fort effortless. However, the width of the vehicle did make for some interesting moments, necessitating a spotter to guide the driver along the tightest streets in this beautiful and historic city without brushing any ancient (or modern) architecture.

The regenerative braking is fairly mild. While “one-pedal” driving is not a strong point, the J6 relies more on mechanical brakes, which keeps the ride smooth and avoids the jerkiness that can occur in heavy traffic. In terms of range, our tester, the 2WD model packs a 65.69 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery. It realistically would achieve around 350 to 400 kms on a single charge depending on traffic and driving habits. It supports DC fast charging and will charge from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes from an 80 kW charger.

Our drive to Galle and back registered some 260 kms, and at the end of it there was some 22% charge left. This is despite some 215 of those kms being on the Expressway with minimal regenerative braking. Expressway driving is any EV’s least efficient mode, so to speak, and the J6 fared pretty well.

Safety and ADAS features

The J6 is equipped with a robust Level 2.5 Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) and comprehensive passive safety features. There are 4 airbags and in addition to what is mentioned in the “Driving the J6” segment above, there is Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), and a 360-degree panoramic camera. The TJA is an advanced, semi-autonomous driver assistance feature designed to reduce stress in stop-and-go traffic. It combines Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping Assist to automatically manage acceleration, braking, and steering at low speeds; thereby not requiring driver inputs to manage stop-go traffic!

The Adaptive Cruise Control automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead in traffic. Blind Spot Detection (BSD) monitors and alerts you of vehicles in your blind spots. Another useful feature is Rear Cross Traffic Brake (RCTB) which essentially detects oncoming traffic when reversing and engages automatic braking if a collision is imminent.

Living with the J6

Owning a Jaecoo J6 EV is like driving a head-turning, retro-futuristic compact SUV that blends bold, rugged styling with everyday electric ease. It offers quiet, punchy performance, generous headroom, and modern tech, though the boxy design trades off some highway efficiency. For its size, the J6 drives surprisingly fast. The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) option that we tested, with a 65.65 kWh battery, is relaxed but effortless around town. Despite its off-roader looks, it drives like a city SUV. It sits lower to the ground than it appears, making it well-balanced in corners, though you will feel some body roll if you corner aggressively.

The boxy exterior handles outdoor vibes well and stands out. The chunky fenders, flush door handles, and animated light sequences give the car a distinct personality. The interior is highly minimalist, featuring a massive 15.6-inch screen that manages almost everything, including the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. You’ve also got wireless phone charging, plenty of wired ports and an in-built drive recorder for safety.

With no internal combustion engine, packaging is excellent. The 2,715 mm wheelbase ensures plenty of rear legroom, and the second-row seats fold completely flat to create a sleeping area or huge cargo space. In fact, the boot is rated at 450 litres with the rear seats in place. Inside the cabin you’ve got plenty of storage compartments, door pockets, cup holders and the like. The centre console box can even be cooled via the air conditioning to keep your beverages at optimal temperature.

The view from the driver’s seat is excellent. The unabashedly square design never leaves your line of sight or peripheral vision. Peering out over the square bonnet, you will feel like going off the beaten path. The J6 is not intimidating, but it did keep our usually unruly motorists from suddenly cutting into my lane and preventing me from filtering into theirs – much like when I’m driving my ancient Land Rover Defender! That reduces the stresses of daily commutes, making the drive more comfortable.

Driving the Jaecoo J5 HEV

Say hello to the Jaecoo J5 HEV… or Hybrid Electric Vehicle form. It’s the smallest (so far) of the J-series trio that’s currently available in Sri Lanka from the Jaecoo agent Hayleys Mobility. We’ve already tested the J7 PHEV and J6 EV.

Debuting in 2025, the J5 is one of the freshest Chinese SUVs around and is particularly appealing for those who want a two-row, sub-4.4 metre SUV in their garage or driveway. As for Jaecoo itself, they’re a sub-brand of Chery, and, along with sister sub-brand Omoda (also under Hayleys Mobility), are intended for markets outside China. In Sri Lanka, the J5 is available in HEV form, at one pretty well-loaded trim level, further simplifying buyer choice. You’ve only got to pick a colour. So let’s see how it does in our Motor road test which was carried out mostly in wet weather.

Exterior

The Jaecoo J5 HEV is styled a fair bit like its bigger J7 sibling, especially at the front with the ‘Waterfall Grille’, unlike the J6 that takes a totally different design direction. Five colours are available, namely Alpine Green, Glacier Blue, Canyon Black, Zircon Grey and Snowy White. Our tester wears a smart Canyon Black suit and rides on 18-inch duo-tone alloy wheels shod with 235/55 tires, offering a fairly substantial sidewall and prioritizing comfort as a result. External lighting such as the headlamps, DRLs and tail-lamps are all LED as is commonplace nowadays, and the door handles are the traditional, exposed, pull-sort rather than those soon-to-be-banned hidden types.

In terms of pure numbers, there’s 176 millimetres of ground clearance, and the vehicle comes in at 4.38 metres long. Its 1.86 metres wide, usefully narrower than the more butch-looking J6 that we recently took to Galle and back – and literally threaded the needle with, at the Galle Fort. Suffice to say, the J5 won’t be as harrowing. Another point is, the height of the J5 is a very convenient 1.65 metres, ensuring that you won’t get stuck in car parks with low headroom. Overall, the design looks pretty smart, especially at the front with the JAECOO script proudly identifying who makes this vehicle. Of course, there are some design influences from a particular British SUV maker too.

Mech & Tech

The J5 HEV is a power-split hybrid. That means it’s endowed with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a DHT or Dedicated Hybrid Transmission to drive the front wheels, via either or both power sources depending on demand. The brochure from Hayleys Mobility tells me that the system’s combined outputs are a rather nice 165 kilowatts (221 horsepower) of power, and 295 newton-metres of torque. The 0-100 time is claimed to be 7.9 seconds – let’s see!

I must also point out that the J5 HEV is not a plug-in hybrid but a regular hybrid. That means its 1.83-kilowatt-hour battery is charged purely from its petrol engine – so no need to worry about installing an EV charger at your house. This will be particularly useful to those who are living on rent, or don’t have easy charging access. Elsewhere, you’ve got electric power steering and four-wheel disc brakes. The front suspension is MacPherson Strut, while the rear uses an independent set-up.

Driving the Jaecoo J5 HEV

The moment you enter the J5 HEV with the key in your pocket or on your person, it automatically starts up! Then, a power-adjustable driver seat (6-way) means that getting comfortable is pretty easy, and there’s an 8.8-inch gauge cluster directly ahead. The steering wheel is manually adjustable, but allows for reach, as well as rake so once again, you can find that perfect driving position. You’ll find the gear shifter lurking around the steering column. Select D (or R) and the electric parking brake automatically releases. Now, you’re ready to go.

The gauge cluster is clear and neat and easily communicates all salient information. It’s not a full LCD affair, hence it can’t be customized, but I don’t think you’d mind. As is, it shows speed, engine revs, battery charge, coolant temperature, fuel level, odometer information and range. It’s also got indicators for the drive mode, various ADAS features and gear selected. Plus, it offers great readability under all lighting conditions, and you can adjust its brightness via the infotainment system.

Speaking of driving modes, there are two – Eco and Sport. That’s it, and you select between them via a physical button in the centre console. Regardless of mode, you can avail yourself to full power if you bury the floor-hinged throttle pedal. Even though it was a rainy day, the performance was still impressive, and I don’t doubt that 7.9-second 0-100 claim in Sport mode. The engine does make itself heard under hard acceleration in Sport, but otherwise its barely noticeable – and there’s an EV indicator to tell you when you’re cruising on electrons alone. The EV mode is mostly prevalent when cruising at low speeds, but I also saw it engage at above 50km/h a couple of times.

Thanks to all this, driving the J5 HEV is a very peaceful affair. The seat offers great ergonomics, there’s ample visibility all round, and power is under your foot when you need it. I also noted some firming up of the steering when in Sport as compared to Eco, but once again, it’s not a night-and-day difference. Plus, you can adjust the level of regenerative braking, brake intensity and steering weight via the vehicle settings menu.

The ride of the J5 HEV is firmly in the ‘Comfort’ segment of the spectrum, so don’t try to corner it like a low-slung, hard-sprung sports car. This SUV is definitely meant for family use, keeping everyone happy, and the rear-seat ride is very good too – certainly on par with some Euros, I’d say. Overall, there’s a decent sense of refinement in here, in terms of noise, vibration and harshness damping. Then, we get to the braking, which, once again is well-adjudged. You don’t have an overly harsh response like in some hybrids and EVs, but on the other hand, the pedal isn’t mushy either. I tried some hard braking applications and found that the vehicle responded well and tracked true, despite the wet surface.

Living With the Jaecoo J5 HEV

You’ve got only one choice of interior colour – black, with synthetic leather upholstery, but it’s not too dark, and the powered moon-roof can always light things up if you desire, or the multi-colour ambient lighting system can do this at night. The front seats are power adjustable – 6-way for driver, 4-way for passenger – as well as heated and ventilated. That’s pretty good for this price point. Dual-zone climate control is present with rear passenger air outlets, plus you can remotely activate the air conditioning to pre-cool the interior. During our test, we found the system offered impressive cooling for front and rear-seat occupants. Granted, the panoramic moonroof might let in some heat, so best keep the sunshade closed when it’s very sunny outside. There’s also a Pet Mode that keeps the vehicle locked with the climate control running in case you need to keep your kitty or pooch inside for some reason.

The now-obligatory Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, with wireless and wired tethering, controlled via a 13.2-inch touchscreen in the centre console. You’ve also got traditional FM radio (naturally) and Bluetooth. An 8-speaker sound system takes care of music. The system offers pretty decent sound quality ‘out of the box’, which is to say, with no equalizations applied. This is what we look for, as you shouldn’t need to fiddle with myriad settings to get the best fidelity. Of course, you’ve got to interact with the touchscreen a lot, and I’d have preferred some physical controls at least for climate control and media/volume functions. Thankfully, the headlamp and wiper controls are physical, unlike some other vehicles that relegate these to the touchscreen.

In terms of charging your power-hungry smart devices, there’s a 50-watt wireless charger up front, as well as USB-C and USB-A charging ports. Rear-seat occupants also get a USB-A port for them to use if needed. Plus, the vehicle has two 12-volt power sockets; one up front and one in the boot. And the rear seat is pretty decent for a vehicle of this size category (known as the subcompact class or B-segment in many other countries). Two average-sized adults will find it perfectly spacious, while a third may travel in the centre seat for shorter journeys. If it’s just double occupancy, the flip-down centre arm rest offers some extra comfort, as well as cup holders.

Meanwhile, up front, you’ve also got cup holders, a centre console box and illuminated vanity mirrors within the front sun visors. Seat-back pockets and door pockets are also present. The boot is rated at 480 litres with the rear seats in place, rising to 1,180 litres if you fold them down. You’ve also got an electric tailgate for easier access. Lifting up the boot floor reveals even more storage space in a suspiciously spare tyre-sized aperture, although the J5 HEV comes with a tyre repair kit instead. Since the 12-volt battery is sited here, you can’t really fit a tyre there, so consider it an additional luggage area – albeit for dry items since there’s a battery there.

Safety and ADAS Features

Despite being the smallest and cheapest ‘J’ we’ve tested so far, the J5 HEV doesn’t really give up much in terms of safety and Advanced Driving Assistance Systems. The brochure lists no less than fourteen systems, including a Driver Monitoring System, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Emergency Lane Keeping, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Multi Collision Braking and Integrated Cruise Control. In addition, you’ve also got six airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, a tire pressure monitor, hill start assist and even a 540-degree high-definition panoramic camera system. There’s also automatic headlamp and windshield wiper control, the latter of which we saw in action during our test on a rainy day. Another critical feature that the J5 HEV has, is automatic door locking.

Fuel Economy and Range

The Jaecoo J5 HEV is rated at a fuel consumption of approximately 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres – that translates to an impressive 18.87 kilometres per litre. With a 51-litre fuel tank, this grants you a potential range of around 950 kilometres! Of course these are manufacturer claims. Since the J5 is literally box-fresh, not just to us but to Sri Lanka as a whole, actual real-world consumption remains to be seen but drive it with a light foot and you might be surprised. Conversely, if you continually deploy all those 221 horses and 295 newton-metres, you’ll have to contend with more visits to the pump.

Price & Warranty

Hayleys Mobility is retailing the Jaecoo J5 HEV at Rs. 17.9 million at the time of testing. It’s covered by a vehicle warranty of 7 years or 150,000 kilometres. The traction battery is covered by an 8-year / 160,000-kilometre warranty. We’re told that they’ve got a fully-equipped service centre in Colombo, and are expanding their presence island-wide.

Final Words

A sensible family SUV for those who don’t want to (or can’t) go down the EV and PHEV route, that’s what the Jaecoo J5 HEV is. Its got a pretty spacious cabin in a relatively compact footprint, enough luggage space for the average Sri Lankan family, and some neat features that you wouldn’t expect in the sub-18 million price bracket. If that floats your boat, go check it out at the Hayleys Mobility showroom.

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Designed to meet the needs of modern drivers, the JAECOO J5 HEV combines intelligent hybrid performance, advanced safety features, and premium comfort to deliver a versatile driving experience across both urban environments and longer-distance travel.

Powered by a 1.5L Turbo GDI engine paired with an electric motor and Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), the JAECOO J5 HEV delivers a combined output of 221 hp and 295 Nm of torque. This enables responsive performance, with 0–100 km/h acceleration achieved in 7.9 seconds, while maintaining smooth performance across varying driving conditions.

Complementing its performance capabilities, the hybrid system delivers fuel efficiency of 18.9 km per liter (5.3 L/100 km) and a combined driving range exceeding 950 km on a full tank, helping drivers reduce fuel stops while supporting lower day-to-day operating costs.

The J5 HEV carries a bold, purposeful exterior, with a wide stance and a sharp LED lighting signature that reinforces its premium character. Inside, the vehicle offers a refined cabin experience characterised by comfort, intuitive technology, and thoughtful design. With a focus on convenience and modern connectivity, the JAECOO J5 HEV is tailored to meet the evolving needs of today’s drivers and families. Complementing its powertrain is a suite of advanced safety features and intelligent driving technologies, enhancing confidence and control across diverse driving conditions.

Speaking on the launch, Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director, Hayleys Fentons Limited stated:

“The introduction of the JAECOO J5 HEV reflects our continued commitment to bringing innovative, future-oriented mobility solutions to Sri Lanka. As demand grows for vehicles that deliver both performance and efficiency, the JAECOO J5 HEV stands out as a compelling option for customers seeking a smarter, and a more refined driving experience.”

Expressing her thoughts Roshani Dharmaratne, Executive Director, Hayleys Mobility Limited stated:

“The JAECOO J5 HEV has been carefully positioned to meet the expectations of today’s Sri Lankan driver, offering a well-rounded combination of performance, efficiency, and everyday practicality. Backed by the strength of the after-sales network and service expertise of Hayleys Mobility, customers can be assured of a seamless ownership experience that extends well beyond the point of purchase.”

Adding further perspective, Rajieve Fernando, Chief Executive Officer, Hayleys Mobility, stated:

“Beyond delivering exceptional hybrid performance and efficiency, the JAECOO J5 HEV reflects our commitment to providing customers with complete peace of mind. Supported by a comprehensive 7-year vehicle warranty, an 8-year battery warranty, the J5 HEV offers a dependable ownership experience backed by one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted corporate institutions.”

Priced at LKR 19.9 million, the JAECOO J5 HEV is now available for purchase through Hayleys Mobility’s showrooms, including the OMODA & JAECOO flagship Store in Colombo.

To commemorate the launch, Hayleys Mobility is extending an exclusive introductory offer, with the first 100 customers eligible to receive a special discount of LKR 1 million, providing exceptional value for those seeking to experience next-generation hybrid mobility.

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Hayleys Mobility has brought forward the OMODA C5 Petrol SUV as a notable addition to its new energy vehicle portfolio, further expanding the presence of the premium OJ (OMODA & JAECOO) range in Sri Lanka.

The OMODA C5 emerges as a dynamic SUV crafted for modern drivers who seek fuel confidence alongside contemporary design and intelligent technology. Delivering impressive fuel efficiency of just 6.9 L/100 km, the C5 offers reassurance against rising fuel concerns while maintaining the familiarity of a petrol-powered driving experience.

Its bold aerodynamic styling and distinctive design language set it apart from conventional SUVs commonly seen on the road, appealing to those who prefer a more contemporary and unique presence.

Inside, the C5 features ventilated front seats, a sunroof with an integrated sunblind, and a Driver Monitoring System, ensuring a driving experience that blends everyday practicality with elevated comfort and advanced technology.

The OMODA C5 is available at a price of Rs. 15.9 million.

As the exclusive authorised distributor in Sri Lanka for OJ (OMODA & JAECOO), Hayleys Mobility brings to market vehicles developed by Chery Group – China’s No. 1 passenger vehicle exporter for 23 years, trusted by over 22.5 million customers across more than 120 global markets.

Backed by the engineering expertise and island-wide service network of Hayleys Fentons, customers are supported with reliable after-sales service, skilled maintenance teams, and easy access to genuine spare parts, ensuring complete confidence throughout the ownership journey. To further enhance accessibility, Hayleys Mobility has partnered with leading financial institutions to offer tailored financing solutions, enabling more Sri Lankans to experience these premium vehicles with ease.

With the launch of the OMODA C5 SUV, Hayleys Mobility reaffirms its commitment to innovation, performance, and sophistication, setting a new standard for automotive excellence in Sri Lanka.

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The JAECOO J7 PHEV integrates advanced structural engineering with intelligent driver-assistance technologies to deliver comprehensive protection for occupants and road users alike. From enhanced frontal and side-impact protection to features such as autonomous emergency braking, cyclist detection, and blind-spot monitoring that responds faster than human reflexes, the vehicle is engineered to support safer, more confident driving in real-world conditions.

Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is the independent vehicle safety authority for Europe, covering the European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Norway. Its five-star rating system is widely regarded as the global benchmark for automotive safety, evaluating vehicles across frontal, side, and pole-impact crash tests, as well as pedestrian protection and a suite of driver assistance technologies.

Australasian NCAP (ANCAP) is the independent safety authority for the Asia-Pacific region, conducting assessments applicable to Australia, New Zealand, and other participating countries across South-East Asia, including Sri Lanka. Operating in alignment with Euro NCAP protocols, ANCAP assesses vehicles under the same rigorous criteria, ensuring that safety ratings earned in the Asia-Pacific market reflect the highest international standards.

“At Hayleys Mobility, we have always believed that the trust Sri Lankan families place in us carries a profound responsibility,” said Roshani Dharmaratne, Executive Director of Hayleys Mobility Limited. “This five-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP rating for the JAECOO J7 PHEV, alongside our broader OMODA range, affirms that we are bringing world-class protection to every driver on our roads.”

Complementing this achievement, the OMODA E5, C9, and C5 have also earned five-star Euro NCAP safety ratings, further strengthening Hayleys Mobility’s portfolio of globally recognised, safety-first vehicles.

“Achieving five stars in Euro NCAP and ANCAP is the validation of every engineering decision built into this vehicle,” said Suraj Chularathne, Assistant General Manager of Hayleys Mobility. “For us, safety is a non-negotiable standard. These vehicles prove that you do not have to compromise on elegance or performance to drive something genuinely safe, and we are proud to be the company delivering that to Sri Lanka.”

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Hayleys Mobility Limited, the mobility arm of Hayleys Fentons Limited, hosted an exclusive cocktail evening featuring former All Blacks captain Kieran Read on 28^th April 2026 at its OJ Flagship Store at Altair Towers, Colombo.

The event brought together clients, stakeholders, and partners to mark the company’s growing role in international rugby, combining sport leadership, and premium mobility experiences.

The key highlight was an intimate podcast recording with Kieran Read, who shared reflections on leadership, discipline, and the demands of international rugby in conversation with Shanaka Amarasinghe. The podcast recording has since been made available through the YouTube channel of Hayleys Mobility.

Hayleys Mobility served as the Official Automobile Partner for the New Zealand Under-85kg rugby team’s two-Test series against the Sri Lanka Tuskers, a tour taking place across April and May 2026, played for the prestigious Sir Graham Henry Trophy.

As part of this partnership, Hayleys Mobility will also serve as Kieran Read’s personal automobile partner throughout his tour. He will travel to official engagements in the refined OMODA & JAECOO vehicle range, offering comfort, safety, and a seamless opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes.

This partnership builds on Hayleys Mobility’s ongoing support for rugby in Sri Lanka, moving from schools-level initiatives to national-level engagements.

Hayleys Mobility’s vehicle portfolio, including the OMODA & JAECOO, embodies the very spirit of rugby, dynamic energy, resilience, and the capability to perform across diverse terrains. This natural alignment positions Hayleys Mobility as a strong advocate for the sport, both on and off the field.

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Since its UK debut in January 2025, JAECOO has recorded 28,232 new vehicle registrations within its first year, validated by the SMMT, making it the fastest-growing mainstream automotive brand Britain has seen in over a decade. Its flagship model, the JAECOO J7 PHEV, ranked among the most popular retail cars in the UK within its first year and emerged as the best-selling new car in Britain in March 2026.

These results have been further reinforced by a series of prestigious industry accolades:

• Carwow Brand of the Year 2026
• Leasing.com Overall Car of the Year
• Recognised by Google as the most searched Chinese automotive brand in the UK in its Year in Search 2025

Supporting this growth is JAECOO’s parent company, Chery Group, ranked 233^rd in the Fortune Global 500 (2025) and China’s No. 1 passenger vehicle exporter for 23 consecutive years.

This global momentum is beginning to translate into local demand, with growing interest in the JAECOO J7 PHEV across Sri Lanka. Designed to combine premium styling with advanced technology and everyday practicality, the model is well suited to both urban driving and more challenging terrain. It offers a combined range of up to 1,200 km, fast-charging capability (30% to 80% in 20 minutes), and acceleration from 0–100 km/h in under 8.5 seconds. Safety and reliability are reinforced through advanced driver-assistance features, a five-star Euro NCAP rating, and  a seven-year warranty offered by Hayleys Mobility.

The full JAECOO range, comprising the J6, J7 PHEV, and J8 models, is available exclusively through Hayleys Mobility. With additional models, including the J8 PHEV and the J5 HEV, scheduled to join the portfolio, Hayleys Mobility is well positioned to offer Sri Lankan drivers an ever-expanding selection of world-class vehicles.

The JAECOO J7 PHEV, the UK’s best-selling car in March 2026.

The post JAECOO Shakes Up UK Auto Market with Record-Breaking Growth appeared first on Omoda Jaecoo.

On Sri Lankan roads, given that it’s already available in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Russia and a host of Southeast Asian countries too.

Exterior

The Jaecoo J7 PHEV sits in the compact class of crossover/SUV. In terms of overall numbers, it measures long, 167 metres tall and 1.85 metres wide, meaning that parking will be pretty hassle-free. It’s also got a smart set of 19-inch aero-optimised alloy wheels and offers around 200 millimetres of ground clearance. This is useful if you tend to traverse some of our less-than-stellar roads that have ample craters and humps to offer.

You can have your J7 PHEV in a choice of Forest Green, Ocean Blue, Lunar Silver, Carbon Black and Arctic White. Our tester comes in Lunar Silver which has a beautifully multi-layered hue. As sunlight (or artificial light) hits it from various angles and intensities, the overall shade shifts between light blue to grey to even white in certain areas. Yes, it’s a bit chameleon-esque. We also had a chance to check out a Carbon Black variant at the showroom, and it looks smart as well, albeit without any colour-shifting abilities!

Regardless of colour, the J7 PHEV looks smart with its split LED headlamp with LED daytime running lamps and large grille that prominently proclaims JAECOO right at the centre. Along the sides, you’ve got those famous electric hidden door handles and a rising window line as you move from front to rear. Yes, the overall silhouette of the Jaecoo J7 looks like a popular British luxury off-roader’s product, especially the way the roofline and window lines converge, albeit not a carbon copy. The vehicle also has largely cosmetic roof rails. The rear contains LED tail lamps and a hands-free power tailgate.

Mech & Tech

Our test J7 is the PHEV or Plug-In Hybrid variant. So, it’s got a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, plus an electric motor. The engine is rated at 148 horsepower and 215 newton-metres of torque. The electric motor can provide up to 204 horsepower and 310 newton-metres of torque. If you add these together, you might think that your J7 PHEV makes 342 horsepower and 525 newton-metres of torque. However, that’s not the way such power-split hybrids work. Since the electric motor and petrol engine make their maximum power and torque figures at different RPM ranges, simple addition doesn’t work here. The agents tell me that around 276 horsepower and 380 newton-metres of torque are rather more realistic figures for combined output maximums.

Both power sources send their drive to the road via a DHT or Dedicated Hybrid Transmission that handles the task of combining the power in a smooth and efficient fashion. The vehicle is front-wheel drive in case you’re wondering. All-wheel drive is available in other markets and could possibly be ordered here as well, albeit at a higher price point. The J7 PHEV has got MacPherson Strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. Four-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes are standard, as is regenerative braking – a key feature in any hybrid or EV.

Driving Experience

As you open the door with the key in hand or on your person, the J7 PHEV is already prepared to set off. The vehicle automatically switches on and the driver seat has motored into the Comfort Access position. Once you close the door, it returns to your set position, or you can adjust it via the power adjustment function. Press the brake pedal and READY is displayed on the gauge cluster. Select D (or R) via the column-mounted gear shifter and away you go. I must point out that if you want to shift from D into R (or vice-versa), you’ve got to actually click the shifter twice in the necessary direction, as the first click takes you into Neutral. Hayleys tells me that the latest J7s have sorted this out.

Three driving modes are present, selected via a centre console-mounted rocker. Eco gives you maximum regeneration and subdued throttle response, encouraging very conservative driving. Normal is, well, pretty regular and there’s the more enthusiastic Sport mode. That’s because the J7 PHEV still gives you full beans if you floor it. Selecting Sport dials up throttle response and dials down traction control too. I feel, judging by how the front tyres willingly chirp and the steering wheel displays some torque steer, that you’re being lead-footed while cornering.

The J7 isn’t slow, and I feel that Hayleys is being coy by saying that the 0–100 km/h sprint time is 8.5 seconds. It’s definitely quicker than that, with my rough seat-of-the-pants experience hinting at maybe a high 7-second figure. There’s always enough urge to pull off those quick cut-and-thrust manoeuvres that you sometimes need to make on our roads. Fellow RevMatch presenter Mahen and I never felt ourselves yearning for more power, even when we took the J7 PHEV out on the open road and stretched its legs into triple-figure speeds.

You can also choose to drive your J7 PHEV in purely electric drive mode. As long as the battery has enough charge, simply press the EV button in the centre console and you can drive without consuming petrol. This, paired with the plug-in hybrid nature of the vehicle and its charging capabilities, means that you could ostensibly perform your daily office, school and shopping commutes without consuming any petrol. Then, when the weekend rocks around and that trip to the hills or down south beckons, simply select Hybrid mode and the petrol engine can do its thing. Speaking of which, I must note that the petrol engine is very well damped, and I never noticed its soundtrack invading into the cabin at any point unless I was very quiet and paid particular attention to listen for it.

The J7 PHEV’s ride is comfort-oriented, and you’ll be very pleased with how it rides over potholes, uneven roads and speed bumps. Ditto its brakes which blend friction (disc) and regenerative braking in a very intuitive fashion. So, the J7 PHEV is basically a get-in-and-go machine. Thanks to its manageable dimensions, parking is also a breeze. Plus, you can use that neat surround-view camera system to select and focus on areas of interest. So, if you’re parking near a high kerb, just pinch and zoom in there to help you position the vehicle with precision. If you want to see how much front or rear space you have, you can also click dedicated area to zoom in on these areas.

With a J7 PHEV, if you still can’t park properly after having all these features at your disposal, you should go back to driving school!

Living With The Jaecoo J7 PHEV

Hayleys Mobility brings down the J7 PHEV in one spec, with a rather comprehensive list of kit. You’ve got leather seats and a standard twin power adjustment for driver as well as front passenger seats. That’s not all. Both front seats are ventilated, and the vehicle also has dual-zone climate control.

The overall design of the dashboard and centre console is one of minimalism, with few buttons, and most major control activities are done via the 14.8-inch touchscreen. During testing, we found the screen to be quite responsive, and the menus to be intuitive as well. You don’t need to venture too deep into sub-menus to adjust settings – it’s a very well laid-out interface.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included, while a premium Sony 8-speaker sound system takes care of music. The system sounds quite nice, with a good amount of low-end punch, mid-range clarity and defined, but not tiny highs. You’ve also got a heads-up display to augment the 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. During our drive, fellow tester Mahen noticed that the heads-up display may not be visible if you wear polarized sunglasses, so be aware of that. Meanwhile, there’s 64-colour ambient lighting for the front and rear of the interior, including a rhythmic pattern that syncs with your music. A 50-watt wireless phone charger is present too, as well as two USB charging ports for those who don’t have a wireless charging-compatible phone.

Rear seat space is pretty decent, and you’ve got two more charging ports here. Rear passengers can also adjust and storage spaces are also present. In terms of rear seat space, it’s very generous, and even the driver seat motors all the way backwards in its Comfort Access feature, the right-hand side rear passenger’s legs won’t get trapped. Plus, there’s a nice “Boss Mode” feature for the left-hand-side rear passenger, courtesy of side-mounted controls that allow the front seat to be remotely moved forwards, for maximum leg space. Behind the rear seats is a pretty accommodating 500-litre boot that will easily handle most family transport duties, even during those extended trips out of town when things get piled up, and ad-hoc purchases tend to be made from time to time.

Safety and ADAS Features

Today’s crop of Chinese cars pack pretty comprehensive safety and Active Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features. The J7 PHEV is no different. It comes with seventeen items in the ADAS section of the brochure alone! I won’t list them all, but key systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Braking, Lane Change Assist and Driver Monitoring System.

Then, you’ve got a suite of no less than eight airbags, a 540-degree high-definition surround-view camera system, tyre pressure monitor, hill descent control, hill start assist and of course, rear parking sensors to name some of the highlights.

Range & Fuel Economy

The J7 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid, which means that it sips petrol as well as electrons. Charge up the vehicle’s 18.3-kilowatt-hour battery and you can see up to 90 kilometres of electric-only driving (WLTP cycle). However, you’ve also got that turbo petrol motor that only drives the wheels but can also charge the battery. So, the J7 PHEV’s total stated range (WLTP cycle) is over 1,200 kilometres! That’s pretty decent, and ample for the average family. Fuel queues suddenly become much less of a hassle, as with a 6.6-kilowatt home charger, the battery can be charged from 25% to 100% in just 2.5 hours. And if you use a 40-kilowatt DC charger, a 30% to 80% charge can be accomplished in a mere 20 minutes.

Price & Warranty

At the time of testing, Hayleys Mobility is selling the Jaecoo J7 PHEV for Rs. 21.9 million. They are providing a 7-year / 150,000-kilometre vehicle warranty. The battery warranty is 8 years / 160,000 kilometres.

Final Words

With its compact size, punchy powertrain and impressive 1,200-kilometre potential range, the Jaecoo J7 is indeed a compelling value proposition for a family to consider. It’s particularly good for those who want to sample electric mobility but aren’t willing to go full EV, especially if rooftop solar isn’t an option (and it actually isn’t any more for many in the Western Province, thanks to an antiquated grid and lack of energy storage). I came away pretty impressed with the J7, not just its feature set, but by how grown-up and complete it feels. With the Jaecoo J7 PHEV, the Chinese have indeed raised the bar… and keep raising it!

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Hayleys Mobility has introduced the OMODA C9 PHEV as an exciting extension to its new energy vehicle portfolio, the premium OJ (OMODA & JAECOO) range in Sri Lanka.

Leading the launch is the OMODA C9 PHEV, a vehicle that exemplifies the perfect fusion of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. Its advanced tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, featuring permanent magnet synchronous motors, delivers exceptional control and exhilarating acceleration. This powertrain produces a combined output of 395 kW and 650 Nm of torque from its 1.5L DGI Turbo petrol engine and three electric motors, achieving a best-in-class 0–100 km/h acceleration in just 4.9 seconds, positioning it among the fastest in its segment.

Powered by a 34 kWh NCM battery, the C9 PHEV offers an impressive combined driving range of 1,100 km and a pure electric range of up to 169 km (NEDC). Equipped with 70 kW DC fast-charging capability, the battery can charge from 30% to 80% in just 25 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime and making it ideal for modern lifestyles.

Intelligent features such as Automatic Parking Assist (APA) and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) enhance safety and convenience. The refined interior further elevates the driving experience with front and rear heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, three-driver memory seating with easy entry and exit, a Boss button for enhanced rear passenger comfort, and an in-built fragrance system that enhances the cabin ambience.

Complemented by advanced Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension, the C9 PHEV delivers a smooth, adaptive, and truly premium driving experience. The OMODA C9 PHEV is available in Sri Lanka at a price of Rs. 29.9 million.

With the launch of the OMODA C9 PHEV, Hayleys Mobility reaffirms its commitment to innovation, performance, and sophistication, setting a new standard for automotive excellence in Sri Lanka.

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The landmark facility marks a major milestone in transforming how Sri Lankans discover, experience and transition to premium, sustainable mobility solutions, reflecting Sri Lanka’s significant advancement in the region’s automotive landscape.

As the exclusive authorised distributor of OJ in Sri Lanka, Hayleys Mobility continues to accelerate the country’s transition towards a smarter, cleaner, and future-ready transportation ecosystem. Backed by a strategic partnership with the Chery Group, the company caters to diverse mobility needs and delivers next-generation vehicles complemented by robust charging infrastructure, aligned with its brand promise, “One Brand for Every Journey”.

Dedicated exclusively to the OJ portfolio, the flagship OJ showroom presents a curated portfolio of premium electric, plug-in hybrid and ICE vehicles. Customers can view and explore models such as the JAECOO J8, J7 PHEV, J6 and J5, alongside the OMODA C9 PHEV, C5 and E5.

The showroom experience is complemented by professionally guided test drives and a dedicated delivery centre at No. 75, Arnold Ratnayake Mawatha, Colombo 10, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience from initial enquiry to final handover.

Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, said “Our flagship OJ showroom reflects the level of sophistication, innovation, and premium quality that today’s discerning customers expect. This showroom brings global new-energy mobility into a refined, luxury environment that mirrors the future vision of Hayleys Mobility.”

Roshani Dharmaratne, Executive Director of Hayleys Mobility, noted “Altair development in Colombo offers an unmatched combination of exclusivity, accessibility and comfort, making it the ideal setting for our largest OJ showroom in South Asia. Every element of the space has been designed around the customer, creating a relaxed, personalised and premium experience where exploration is effortless and every interaction reflects the luxury standards of the brands we represent.”

The flagship OJ showroom is now open to the public, with vehicle displays and test drives available for customers ready to embrace premium, sustainable mobility.

For further information, please contact the Hayleys Mobility expert team on 0112 222 222, or visit www.hayleysmobility.com or www.omodajaecoo.com.lk.

South Asia’s largest OMODA & JAECOO flagship showroom at No. 127/1, Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Colombo 2, officially unveiled by Hayleys Mobility.

The Hayleys Mobility team pictured after the successful unveiling of the OMODA & JAECOO flagship showroom.

About Hayleys Mobility

Hayleys Mobility, the mobility arm of Hayleys Fentons Limited, delivers new-energy vehicle solutions, redefining Sri Lanka’s transportation landscape. Through exclusive partnerships with world-renowned, fast-growing brands in electric, hybrid and other advanced automotive technologies, the segment offers cutting-edge transportation and charging infrastructure for both commercial and passenger requirements, driving the nation’s transition towards a smarter, cleaner, and future-ready mobility ecosystem.

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As the exclusive authorised distributor, Hayleys Mobility introduces OJ to address growing demands from urban and corporate customers seeking premium vehicles with reduced environmental impact and advanced connectivity.

OMODA & JAECOO are premium brands under the Chery Group, China’s No. 01 passenger vehicle exporter for 23 years and ranked 233^rd on the 2025 Fortune Global 500. Through this partnership, customers in Sri Lanka will benefit from manufacturer-backed warranties, a nationwide after-sales service network, and the trust associated with the Hayleys Group’s 148-year legacy.

The initial OJ portfolio features a versatile mix of Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), and advanced Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models. The JAECOO range includes the flagship J8, J7 PHEV, J6, J5 combining off-road capability with refined luxury, while the OMODA range comprises the C9 PHEV, the stylish C5, and the fully electric E5, designed for future-focused, tech-savvy drivers.

Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, commented,
“OJ strengthens our long-term capability to support cleaner mobility while introducing globally benchmarked vehicles recognised across key markets, including the United Kingdom, Australia, the Middle East, Europe and South America.”

Roshani Dharmaratne, Executive Director of Hayleys Mobility, said,
“Our focus has been on building the right foundation before introducing these brands. From trained technical teams to after-sales infrastructure, we are confident in our ability to support customers well beyond the point of purchase.”

Rajieve Fernando, CEO of Hayleys Mobility, added,
“Customer confidence is critical in the shift to new technologies. That is why we have prioritised manufacturer-backed assurance, genuine parts availability, and roadside assistance via our hotline, 0112 222 222, so ownership remains simple and dependable.”

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