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The “Temu Range Rover” From China Is the Best-Selling Vehicle in the UK Right Now Olivia Richman

Well, the real reason is the price. The hybrid Jaecoo 7 is about $38,800, which is much cheaper than its competition. The Kia Sportage Hybrid is $46,300. The plug-in hybrid Jaecoo 7 is $46,700, still beating its competitors by over $10,000.

As the average price of a new car in the United States exceeds $50,000, hearing about a hybrid SUV at such a low price is enough to make even the most patriotic families jealous. While Chinese EVs have a reputation for being unreliable, cheaply made, and spying on customers (largely spread by politicians and competitors), Americans have said they’d still be willing to try one out at such a low cost. I mean, go ahead and spy on me if I can save over $10,000 on an SUV, am I right?

But buyers wouldn’t pay for a Jaecoo 7 if it was completely awful. Right?

The compact crossover can be gasoline, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid. It has a boxy, modern styling reminiscent of the Range Rover, including a shiny, aggressive grille. However, this isn’t really a luxurious, super-capable Range Rover. It’s the Jaecoo 7.

Top Gear called it a “tame suburban SUV.” The review continues: “Jaecoo promises the AWD 7 will have genuine off-road ability. Claims of 600mm wading depth bode well. It’s very roomy, seems well put-together and about as memorable as the contents of your fridge when you’re peckish. And for plenty of Brits, despite the soggy ride, haphazard hybrid behavior and unhelpful interior, a low price and big space are enough.”

Evo UK said: “Quality in the interior is a mixed bag. Everything looks nice enough, the synthetic leather seats featuring chunky piping and a soft, waxy feel. But it’s skin deep, with tinny plastics and flimsy materials a short hunt away. There’s a good amount of wind noise and tire roar at speed too, the Jaecoo appearing flimsier and less substantial than some rivals when it comes to NVH.”

But hey, it’s under $40,000. And that has proven enough for UK residents to choose the Jaecoo 7 over its competitors. You can’t really blame them. I think Americans would do it as well. If we could.

Autonotion is the English-language automotive editorial by Autonocion.com — car news, reviews, and industry analysis for American readers.

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