Omoda and Jaecoo unveils new hybrid “Baby Land Rover”
Imagine a Land Rover: All its iconic feel and design since its legendary inception in 1948–that upmarket and luxury sport utility vehicle vibe.
Now, instead of spending about P25 million, what if one can just get the same feel and vibe for a tad over P1M?
Omoda and Jaecoo makes that possible with a smaller and greener version–the 2026 Jaecoo J5 Hybrid (SHS HEV)–which the company has just introduced at the ongoing Manila International Auto Show happening at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Built for the budget-conscious buyer, this self-charging sub-compact SUV features a 1.5-L turbo engine, electric motor, and 1.83 kWh battery. Paired with a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), it can produce a total output of 221 hp and 250 N-m of torque.
The J5 prides its “super hybrid system” eyes on providing instant torque and addressing traditional turbo lag, resulting in a smooth driving experience.
The vehicle can even provide an estimated fuel efficiency of 18–19 km/L, 221 hp, a 0-100 km/h time of seven seconds, and a range exceeding 950 km.
Exterior-wise, it can be likened to a Land Rover, only smaller. Sleek, chic and premium-looking, the vehicle is a head-turner on the road.
Inside, it sports a 1.45-sqm panoramic sunroof and pet-friendly and antibacterial materials. Other features include a vertical touchscreen interface, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, and digital instrument cluster.
Safety-wise, it is equipped with ADAS (advanced driver assistance system), including blind-spot detection, forward collision warnings, and a 360-degree camera system.
It is available in two variants Comfort (P999,000) and Luxury (P1.109 million).
“The very affordable prices are our best advantages here. This model is designed and developed for the global market. So, this time is the best time to introduce this model to the Philippines market,” said Hu Chun, president of Omoda and Jaecoo East Asia-Pacific region during an interview after the launching ceremony at MIAS 2026.
According to him, this is the smaller version of the J7, the bigger sibling of the J5, and would sell more compared to the former.
“Comparing it to the competition, it has a lot more features and higher specifications,” he added.
UK’s bestselling car in March
To further reiterate the brand’s selling power, it was also revealed that the Jaecoo 7 ranked number one in Europe last March, selling more than 10,000 units in that month alone–a record milestone for the carmaker.
“It’s really the best time to buy this vehicle, especially with the high fuel prices,” said Marc Zhang, Omoda and Jaecoo Philippines country director, for his part.
“Here in the Philippines, meanwhile, we target to sell 1,000 units per month for both Omoda and Jaecoo,” he added.
