JAC X8 PLUS

The JAC X8 PLUS is a D-segment SUV under JAC Motors. Originally marketed under the Sehol sub-brand, the model was officially rebranded under the core JAC marque in 2023, marking a crucial step in JAC Passenger Cars' strategic transition towards a unified single-brand identity. Offering generous cabin space, accessible pricing, and a dual-powertrain portfolio comprising both internal combustion engine (ICE) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options, the X8 PLUS primarily caters to family buyers across lower-tier domestic cities as well as global emerging markets.

Model Overview

Positioned as a mid-size SUV, the JAC X8 PLUS measures approximately 4,825 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,758 mm in height, riding on a 2,830 mm wheelbase with versatile 5-seater, 6-seater, and 7-seater configurations available. Its primary market positioning centres on being a "spacious family SUV" and a "value-for-money multi-purpose vehicle". Key selling points include segment-exceeding legroom courtesy of its generous wheelbase, a standard 1.5-litre turbocharged engine across the range, clean industrial styling, and the extended range and low fuel consumption delivered by the PHEV variant (X8 E-Family). It serves as JAC’s core contender in the RM100,000 to RM150,000 bracket, catering to the mobility needs of larger households.

Development History

Inception and Rebranding (2022–2023): The vehicle originally debuted in July 2022 as the "Sehol X8 PLUS", developed as a more premium and commodious alternative to the standard X8. In October 2023, in line with JAC Motors' consolidated brand strategy, the model was officially redesignated as the "JAC X8 PLUS" and fitted with the updated JAC corporate badge.

Electrification Milestone (2024–Present): In September 2024, JAC expanded the lineup with the launch of the plug-in hybrid JAC X8 E-Family, marking the model line's official foray into the new energy vehicle (NEV) segment.

Current Status (2026): Moving into 2026, continuous lifecycle refinements have enhanced the X8 PLUS’s everyday family utility—including upgraded infotainment stability and improved seating ergonomics—allowing it to remain a key volume driver within JAC’s passenger car portfolio.

Market Performance

The JAC X8 PLUS has established a reputation for stellar practicality in its home market. In an intensively contested mid-size SUV segment, the X8 PLUS has secured consistent sales volume across regional markets through an aggressive value proposition that delivers upper-segment space at a highly accessible price point. By 2026, the wider rollout of the PHEV (E-Family) variant has further broadened its appeal among running-cost-conscious family buyers, providing JAC with a potent contender in the RM100,000 to RM150,000 range against entry-level offerings from joint-venture marques.

Key Specifications and Engineering

Powertrains:

Petrol Variant: Driven by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), delivering competitive outputs within its class.

PHEV Variant (X8 E-Family): Employs a dedicated 1.5T hybrid engine paired with a single-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). It delivers an all-electric range of up to 110 km under CLTC testing and an overall cruising range exceeding 1,100 km, returning a low state-of-charge (SOC) fuel economy of just 5.49 L/100 km to drastically lower long-distance travel expenses.

Chassis and Dynamics: Equipped with front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam suspension. The chassis calibration is tuned for composure, prioritizing payload capability and cruising stability.

Infotainment and Equipment: The cabin is appointed with a large touchscreen infotainment head unit featuring voice command, smartphone mirroring, and telematics-based remote controls. Standard safety kit across all trims includes an electronic parking brake (EPB), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to ensure dependable active safety.

Practicality and Boot Space: Thanks to versatile split-folding rear seats and underfloor storage compartments, maximum boot capacity can be expanded up to 2,153 litres, accommodating a wide spectrum of family cargo needs.

Future Outlook

Moving forward, the JAC X8 PLUS roadmap centres on expanding its multi-energy architecture. JAC plans to further optimise the energy density and efficiency of its hybrid systems in forthcoming updates to extend overall range. Simultaneously, drawing on its proven commercial vehicle durability credentials, JAC will enhance the vehicle's versatility for long-haul travel and outdoor lifestyle applications. Through targeted spec enhancements, the carmaker aims to steadily elevate the model's digital cockpit and connected ecosystem while safeguarding the X8 PLUS's signature price competitiveness.