JAECOO J5 Hybrid Set for Early Launch in Pakistan. First Markets Globally

Chery’s premium brands, Omoda and JAECOO, are moving stupidly fast in Pakistan.

In less than two years, they’ve brought the electric Omoda E5, the off-road focused JAECOO J6, started local assembly of the J7 PHEV, and now they’re getting ready to drop the JAECOO J5.

The J5 hybrid isn’t even out globally yet. South Africa only gets it in 2026. But Pakistan looks set to be one of the very first markets. That’s how serious they are about this country.

What We Know About the J5 So Far

It’s a compact crossover that sits right between the Omoda C5 and the bigger J7 in size.

Under the hood: 1.5-litre turbo petrol + electric motor hybrid setup. Same basic powertrain family as the J7 PHEV, but detuned for better fuel economy and lower price.

Real-world numbers from test markets show around 5 to 6 litres per 100 km in mixed driving. That’s a proper hybrid territory better than most locals get from their Corolla Cross or Sportage hybrids right now.

Design and Interior That Actually Look Expensive

The way JAECOO designs cars these days is honestly impressive.

Sharp lines, hidden door handles, a full-width LED light bar at the back, big wheels, it looks modern without trying too hard. From the spy shots and global teaser images, the J5 has proper road presence. Bigger than a Jolion, smaller than a Fortuner.

Inside is where it gets interesting.

Big vertical touchscreen (probably 14-15 inches), Sony speakers, wireless charging, panoramic sunroof, powered seats, soft-touch materials everywhere. Even the base model is expected to feel premium.

Safety kit is loaded, too. Level 2+ ADAS, 360 camera, adaptive cruise, lane keep, emergency braking, the works, stuff you still pay extra for on many Japanese SUVs.

Local Assembly = Aggressive Pricing (Again)

This is the JAECOO playbook and they’re sticking to it.

Every model they’ve launched here so far has been priced lower than people expected.

• Omoda E5 came in under PKR 9 million when everyone thought it would be 11–12

• J7 PHEV assembled locally is already cheaper than the imported Haval H6 PHEV

If they follow the same formula, the J5 hybrid should land somewhere between PKR 8.5–10.5 million when it launches. That puts it straight against the Haval Jolion HEV (currently around PKR 9.5–10.5 million) and the upcoming Seres 3 hybrid.

At that price, with a better kit, nicer interior, and proper hybrid system? Jolion is going to feel the heat.

Why This Matters Right Now

Pakistan’s hybrid market is finally waking up.

People are tired of spending PKR 30,000+ per month on fuel for their 1.6L turbo SUVs. Electricity is expensive for PHEVs, but mild hybrids like the Jolion and now the J5 give you real savings without needing to plug in.

Plus, with local assembly, parts and service will be easy. JAECOO already has dealerships in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and more coming.

They’re building the network fast.

Expected Launch Timeline

Dealers are saying test cars are already here. Official reveal could happen as early as January–February 2026, with deliveries starting by March–April.

Book early if you want one. Every single model they’ve launched so far has had waiting periods. The J7 PHEV still has a 4 to 6 months wait, even after local production started.

Conclusion

I’ve driven most of the new Chinese hybrids in Pakistan now. The JAECOO J7 PHEV is genuinely one of the best SUVs under PKR 15 million right now ride, build quality, features, everything.

If the J5 is 80% of that experience at potentially PKR 4 to 5 million less, it’s going to sell like crazy. Yes, some people still won’t touch “Chinese” cars. That’s fine. But for everyone else who just wants a modern, efficient, well-equipped SUV without spending Proton Saga money on fuel every month?

The J5 looks like the smart buy of 2026. Keep your eyes open. This one’s going to move fast.

For more updates, visit DrivePK.com