JAC JS8 PRO Review: How the Cheapest Seven-Passenger Chinese SUV on the Market Performs

We're seeing more and more Chinese cars on the road. It's undeniable. And the number will only increase with new rules for a more open market and tax breaks for affordable electric vehicles .

Currently, there are about 18 Chinese brands operating in Argentina. JAC is one of the many that arrived in 2018. It did so through the Socma group, and it's not as well-known because it was overshadowed by Chery, the brand that the same importing group marketed until a month ago.

Another factor that worked against it, as with the others, was that a few months after the landing, the dollar began to rise, and prices—attractive at first—became out of step with local supply.

Following a reorganization of its business units, JAC remained the sole representative (the group also imported DFSK utility vehicles), and the bet is strong.

Currently, its range is made up of the S2 compact crossover (one of the cheapest models on the market), the JS4 compact SUV (launched in late 2024), the JS8 medium-large SUV, the T8 medium-sized pickup, and the X200 utility vehicle, which recently began assembly at the Ralitor plant in La Plata.

For the second half of the year, however, the brand announced it will incorporate new versions and models, including electrified alternatives such as the JS6 midsize SUV, which will have a plug-in hybrid variant; the T9 midsize pickup, which will offer a fully electric version; and the E30X all-electric compact hatchback, which will inaugurate the Chinese automaker's presence in the B segment.

In addition, the company plans to expand its manufacturing process by adding its electric pickup to its production line, along with other electrified and combustion models that have not yet been revealed.

The JAC JS8 is a new option for families looking for a spacious vehicle with capacity for seven occupants.

It is offered in a single top-of-the-range version, which is also characterized by being the most economical option on the market, even compared to smaller vehicles.

The JS8 PRO has a value of $38,900 , which if converted to pesos at the exchange rate at the time of this edition ($1,275) does not reach $50 million.

It competes against vehicles over 4.80 meters long, such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer ($67,175,900), Toyota SW4 ($74,427,000), and Ford Everest ($80,598,000); models derived from pickups that, unlike the original, feature chassis with side members and 4x4 drive options.

At first glance, the JS8 is attractive and robust. It stands out thanks to its large grille with chrome details, its slanted headlights and LED taillights, and its 19-inch wheels.

Fighting at the top of the segment forces it to have everything, and it does: an electric panoramic roof, a rear tailgate with a hands-free system (it opens by sliding your foot under the bumper), courtesy lights that project from the rearview mirror housings, reflecting the brand logo on the ground.

Inside, the interior continues in the same vein, featuring a minimalist, digital layout composed of two screens (one for the instrument panel and one for the multimedia system) that are easy to read and operate, electric front seats, and climate control with outlets for all three rows.

We were surprised that the steering column does not have a depth adjustment, which would achieve an optimal driving position.

The space in all three seats is excellent, even in the rear. The middle seats can be moved longitudinally and their backrests can be folded down, offering greater comfort and facilitating entry and exit for passengers in the back row.

Mechanically, it's powered by a 182-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, responsive for a vehicle of its size. It's complemented by a well-functioning dual-clutch automatic transmission with seven gears with efficient, almost imperceptible shifting, providing a comfortable feel for passengers.

Its handling is poised on the road, aided by efficient electric steering (it turns very well) and generous 19-inch wheels that, despite its nearly 1.80 meters height, allow it to be driven firmly at all times. It also features multiple driver assistance systems that contribute to safer driving.

The soundproofing is good. The noise from rolling and crosswinds isn't bothersome, but it could be lessened with more precise treatment.

The city is also a comfortable fit. Maneuvering isn't difficult, as it has a very good turning radius. It is difficult (due to its size) to find parking, although parking isn't so difficult thanks to the multiple cameras and views it offers the driver.

Ultimately, the JS8 is a very good vehicle. All that's left for the brand is to do its part and continue growing to gain greater visibility.

The first Chinese brand to arrive in Argentina has changed its representative after 17 years under the control of the Socma Group.

Since last month, its operations have been under the control of the Corven Group, which also represents other Chinese brands such as Foton and DFSK (also formerly Socma) in its automotive business.

So far, there has been no official announcement regarding the network's management or Corven's plans for the company, which at the time of the transfer had only one model for sale: the Tiggo 4 PRO.

Since its arrival, Chery has offered different types of vehicles: city cars (QQ), compact cars (Face and Fulwin sedan and 5-door), medium-sized cars (Arrizo 5) and a varied range of SUVs (Tiggo).