If you’ve stepped outside lately, you’ve probably noticed it’s “raining SUVs” in the Pakistani market. Every other day, a new model drops, and while I’m over here wondering where the money to buy them all comes from, our nation seems to have plenty! My inbox is flooded with people asking: “Suneel Bhai, which one should I buy?”
Since I can’t reply to everyone individually, I’ve lined up three heavy hitters for a face-off. If you have a budget of 10 to 11 million PKR and want an Urban Mobility SUV, specifically a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) or REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle), this is for you.
Meet the Contenders: Family Ties and New Faces
We are focusing on CKD (Locally Manifested) units today. While there are CBU (Completely Built Unit) options like the Fourthing Friday (Reev), we’re sticking to the local superstars:
The Family Tree: Interestingly, the Jaecoo J7 and the Tiggo 8 Pro are basically “sisters.” Both come from the Chery family and share the same core tech, including an 18.3 kWh battery pack and Chery’s Super Hybrid System. On the other hand, the Deepal S05 is from Changan’s electric division.
Tech Talk: PHEV vs. REEV
Before we dive into the specs, let’s clear up the jargon. All three have engines, batteries, and fuel tanks, but they use them differently:
- PHEV (Jaecoo & Chery): The engine is the primary source; the battery is secondary.
- REEV (Deepal S05): Think of this as an EV with a backup generator. The wheels are always driven by the battery/motor, and the engine’s only job is to charge the battery.
Price and Availability: The Reality Check
Prices in Pakistan move faster than the cars themselves! Here’s the current landscape:
| Feature | Jaecoo J7 | Deepal S05 | Chery Tiggo 8 Pro |
| Introductory Price | Rs. 99 Lakh | Rs. 99 Lakh | Rs. 1.05 Crore |
| Current Status | Prices hiked due to high demand: PKR 1.5 crore | Still at introductory price | Price has crossed Rs. 1.13 Crore |
| Delivery | Moving fast | Struggling with delays | Steady |
Size and Space: Looks Can Be Deceiving
If you look at them side by side, the Jaecoo J7 looks the biggest because of its height and boxy, “Range Rover-inspired” stance. However, facts tell a different story:
- The Big Sister: The Tiggo 8 Pro is the longest because it’s a 7-seater. If you have a big family, the choice ends here.
- The Wheelbase King: Surprisingly, the Deepal S05 has the longest wheelbase. While it looks like a “nimble crossover,” it offers the most legroom. You can fit a 6-foot person in the front and another 6-footer behind them comfortably.
- Ground Clearance: The J7 wins on clearance, whereas the Deepal sits lower, giving it a more “space-age” hatchback-plus vibe.
Range and Performance: Who Goes the Distance?
This is where Deepal S05 steals the show.
- Electric Range: The S05 claims 210km but gives a solid 170km in real-world driving. The Jaecoo and Chery claim 100km but deliver around 70km.
- Drive Train: Jaecoo J7: Front Wheel Drive.
- Deepal S05: Rear Wheel Drive.
- Tiggo 8 Pro: All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This gives it the best traction and control during 0-100 sprints.
- Fuel Economy: Based on my expert reviews, the Deepal S05 is more fuel-efficient than the Jaecoo J7.
Interior Luxury and Tech
All three are packed with Level 2 ADAS (20+ features), leather seats, and high-tech screens. But there are some “cool factors” to note:
- Seats: Chery and Deepal offer Zero Gravity seats. Chery adds a massage function, which the Jaecoo lacks.
- Sound: Jaecoo and Chery use Sony. Deepal uses its own system, which surprisingly sounds better! Plus, Deepal has a speaker in the driver’s headrest for private phone calls.
- The “Sunflower” Screen: The Deepal S05 features a screen that actually tilts toward the driver or passenger.
You can view the full comparison here:
Who Stands Behind the Car?
Buying a car in Pakistan is about the “Group.”
- Jaecoo (Next-gen autos, Nishat Group): Same people who brought Hyundai. Very strong.
- Chery and Deepal (Master Group): 40 years of history in Pakistan
- Service: Deepal currently leads with 23 dealerships, followed by Jaecoo (10) and Chery (9).
Final Verdict
If you need a 7-seater, go for the Tiggo 8 Pro. If you want a tough, boxy look with high ground clearance, the Jaecoo J7 is your ride. But if you want the best electric range, modern tech, and superior legroom, the Deepal S05 is my personal pick.
Pro Tip: Prices change daily. Before you head to the showroom, check the PakWheels On-Road Price Calculator to account for taxes and registration!
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