The Jaecoo J8 AWD might not look like a traditional off-roader, but don’t let that sleek design fool you. While it doesn’t come with a low-range gearbox or solid axles like a ladder-frame 4x4, the J8 brings serious all-wheel drive (AWD) credentials, combining clever hardware and smart software to deliver impressive real-world off-road performance.

Its off-road DNA is no coincidence — Jaecoo is a product of Chery’s past collaboration with Land Rover under the CJLR (Chery Jaguar Land Rover) joint venture, where Chery assembled Range Rovers in China. Some of that terrain-conquering expertise has trickled down to Jaecoo, especially in areas like AWD logic and terrain response systems.



To showcase the J8’s true capability, Omoda Jaecoo Malaysia recently hosted an exclusive “J8 Adventures” off-road experience at Bay 13, Sepang, putting the vehicle through a series of obstacles that tested its performance beyond city roads.

Among the challenges was a simulated water-wading trench, where the J8 demonstrated its ability to handle up to 450 mm of water thanks to its 139 mm ground clearance. Though not an amphibious vehicle, it crawled through confidently — ideal for flash floods or rural kampung roads.



Next came a steep downhill slope, testing the Hill Descent Control (HDC). Without the driver needing to brake, the J8 managed its speed automatically, offering a controlled and confident descent even on loose gravel — a big plus for new or nervous drivers.

During the axle articulation test, where one or two wheels lift off the ground, the J8’s twin-clutch torque vectoring AWD system impressed. It can send up to 100% of torque to a single rear wheel, allowing it to continue forward even when traction is lost. The Off-Road, Mud, and Sand driving modes also optimise throttle and gearbox response to maintain grip.



One of the most impressive moments was the 30° side slope challenge. While the J8 is rated for up to 40°, even 30° felt extreme — but the SUV remained stable and composed, thanks to its low centre of gravity, torque vectoring, and intelligent AWD stability system.

Inside, the Jaecoo J8 doesn’t feel like a rugged SUV at all — it feels like a luxury lounge on wheels. Passengers are treated to plush Nappa leather upholstery, individual second-row seats, and even massage and ventilation features, making it one of the most comfortable cabins in its class — even off the beaten path.

And here's the game-changer: the Jaecoo J8 AWD is priced at just RM198,800. That’s less than half the price of some premium SUVs with similar off-road tech and luxury features, many of which cost RM400,000 and above.



Most vehicles with individual rear seats and high-end comfort features come in the form of vans or MPVs — but the J8 packages all of that in a rugged, stylish SUV body, ready to tackle Malaysian roads and trails.

In short, the Jaecoo J8 isn’t trying to be a jungle-bashing rock crawler — and it doesn’t need to be. It’s a tech-packed, confidence-inspiring urban SUV with real off-road ability and luxury-class comfort, ideal for Malaysia’s challenging road conditions.