Jaecoo J5 shows premium quality doesn’t have to break the bank

The flagship Jaecoo J5 Inferno costs less than R500 000. Picture: Supplied Cars have become very expensive, but looking premium doesn’t have to come at a massive price. Some new cars deliver the sort of style, tech and cabin appeal you’d expect from more expensive vehicles, without venturing into luxury-brand territory.

Ranging from stylish city cars to sharply drawn crossovers and compact SUVs loaded with features,The Citizen Motoringhas picked five cars that offer a taste of the upmarket life at mainstream prices. The Jaecoo J5 marks the Chery-owned marque’s first foray into the compact SUV class. Visually, it leans toward more premium offerings, with Range Rover-like proportions and several upmarket design touches.

All model derivatives are equipped with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine mated to a CVT. Priced at R479 900, the Inferno flagship model includes features that are often reserved for more expensive vehicles. These include a 540-degree surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, a power-operated tailgate, and leather-trimmed seats with power adjustment for the driver and heating for the front row.

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There are few cars priced south of the R500 000-mark that offer the same sense of fit, finish, and perceived build quality as the Jaecoo J5. Safety comes in the form of seven airbags and electronic stability control, while LED headlights also form part of the package. 16-inch alloys and also a selection of delightful colours like Rugiada Green and Passione Red add to its appeal.

The Fiat 500is hard to beat for those looking for a stylish city car. The Omoda C5’s coupe-esque lines put one in mind of high-end machinery like the BMW X6 and Audi Q8, albeit at a fraction of the price. This distinctive aesthetic and the impressive standard equipment list have made it an excellent seller for the Chery-owned brand.

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