By Malusi Msomi

Plug-in hybrids are picking up momentum in South Africa, and we recently attended the local launch of two fresh contenders: the Jaecoo J7 SHS and the Omoda C9 PHEV. Both models bring a unique flavour to the PHEV space, with subtle design tweaks, modern cabin tech, and most importantly some serious performance underfoot.

Jaecoo J7 SHS: First impressions

We kicked things off with a drive in the Jaecoo J7 SHS, heading out from Muldersdrift to the Gerotek Test Facility. On tar, it proved to be a comfortable cruiser with a surprisingly refined ride. The power delivery is smooth and linear thanks to a 1.5L turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor and Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Combined outputs sit at a respectable 255 kW and 525 Nm, and you can really feel it when overtaking or pulling away.

With an electric-only range of 90 km and a claimed total driving range of 1,200 km, the J7 SHS offers proper plug-in flexibility for those looking to cut down on fuel stops without sacrificing performance.

Inside, Jaecoo has leaned into the minimalist trend. The materials feel upmarket and the design is clean, but accessing certain functions through the large touchscreen can be fiddly at times, especially if you’re used to more traditional buttons.

Omoda C9 PHEV: First impressions

We then sampled the Omoda C9 PHEV, and let’s just say, this thing is a bit of a sleeper. The exterior keeps it subtle: apart from some blue C9 badging and twin fuel flaps, there’s not much to give away its plug-in nature. A quiet flex, perhaps?

Underneath the conservative styling lies a monster powertrain: 440 kW and 915 Nm. Yes, you read that right. That kind of output in a family SUV borders on ludicrous, and it makes itself known with effortless acceleration. Yet the C9 isn’t just brawn, it claims an electric-only range of 150 km and a total range of 1,100 km.

The cabin remains familiar and comfortable. Think dual 12.3-inch displays, a panoramic sunroof, and a punchy Sony sound system. There’s plenty of tech to go around, and it all feels thoughtfully integrated.

Handling? Surprisingly sharp. We threw it into a moose test at 60 km/h and braked from over 160 km/h with no drama. It remained composed and gave off serious premium SUV vibes.

Warranty and pricing

Omoda has gone full send on warranties with both the C9 PHEV and J7 SHS:

• 7-year/100,000 km service plan
• 7-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty
• 10-year/1 million km engine warranty
• 10-year/unlimited km battery warranty for first owner

Pricing:

• Jaecoo J7 SHS – R689,900
• Omoda C9 PHEV – R999,000

Both plug-in hybrids bring impressive spec sheets, standout design, and strong value to the table.

And if you’re keen to see these electrified SUVs in action, don’t forget to watch our full Jaecoo J7 SHS review on our YouTube channel.