Sehol X8

Model Overview

The Sehol X8 is a mid-size SUV launched in 2020 by the Sehol brand—a new-generation marque backed by the joint venture between JAC Group and Volkswagen Group. Originally introduced as the JAC Jiayue X8, the model was subsequently rebranded as the Sehol X8 following a corporate brand restructuring. Geared towards family buyers, the Sehol X8 highlights generous interior room and high value for money, offering three seating configurations: 5-seater, 6-seater, and 7-seater. In terms of pricing, the entry-level variant starts from RM88,800, while the range-topping flagship retails for around RM172,800. Its key segment rivals include same-class mid-size SUVs such as the Jetour X70 and Chery Tiggo 8.

Design Language

The Sehol X8 carries over the signature family design language of the Sehol brand. Up front, it features a prominent vertical waterfall-style 3D radiator grille flanked by split-type LED headlamps, delivering a commanding visual presence. The side profile is defined by clean, taut character lines and a full-length shoulder line complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels, accentuating its mid-size SUV stance. At the rear, the vehicle features full-width LED tail lamps and dual chrome exhaust garnish finishers. In terms of exterior dimensions, it measures 4,815 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,758 mm in height, with a 2,830 mm wheelbase, alongside an unladen ground clearance of 170 mm. Exterior lighting is offered in halogen or full LED setups, with higher-spec variants gaining automatic headlamps and cornering auxiliary lights. Inside, the cabin sports a two-tone red-and-black colour theme with soft-touch materials dominating the dashboard, elevated by silver chrome accents. Drivers are treated to a three-spoke or four-spoke multi-function steering wheel.

Powertrain and Performance

The entire Sehol X8 lineup is powered by a HFC4GC1.6E 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Equipped with DVVT (Dual Variable Valve Timing) and direct cylinder injection, the powerplant produces a maximum output of 135 kW (184 PS) and a peak torque of 300 Nm, with maximum pulling power accessible across 1,800 to 3,500 rpm. Power is routed to the front wheels (FWD) via a six-speed manual (6MT) or a six-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (6DCT). Top speed is rated at 160 km/h. Fuel consumption is officially rated at 8.5 L/100 km under the WLTC cycle and 8.1 L/100 km on the NEDC cycle. It runs on RON 92 petrol and has a fuel tank capacity of 58 litres. The vehicle is backed by a 3-year or 100,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Chassis and Handling

Under the skin, the Sehol X8 employs a front MacPherson strut independent suspension paired with a rear torsion beam semi-independent setup. Steering is assisted by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Braking hardware consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, paired with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). Tyre fitments range from 225/55 R18 on standard models to 235/50 R19 on higher-spec trims. Chassis tuning leans noticeably towards ride comfort, with well-judged damping that effectively irons out road imperfections. The steering feedback and brake pedal modulation are progressive and linear, ensuring an easy and intuitive drive.

Cabin and Equipment

On the tech front, the Sehol X8 comes equipped with a 10.25-inch full digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch floating infotainment display. The system supports satellite navigation, intelligent voice control, connected services, smartphone mirroring, and OTA software updates. A double-decker centre console design provides ample pass-through storage below. Comfort and convenience amenities include a leatherette multi-function steering wheel, keyless entry with push-start ignition, and remote engine start. Flagship variants add heated front seats. For practical load-lugging, boot capacity starts at 418 litres in standard configuration and expands to a cavernous 2,153 litres with the rear seats folded flat. The second-row seats also feature fore-and-aft sliding and backrest recline adjustments.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of safety, the Sehol X8 is engineered with a high-tensile safety cage. Passive safety comes standard with dual front airbags. Active safety hardware includes ABS, EBD, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). High-grade variants feature a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), encompassing Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Lane Change Assist. Selected trims also offer PSC automated parking assist and a child presence detection system. In addition, a 360-degree panoramic surround-view camera is available.

Market Performance and Verdict

The Sehol X8’s sales trajectory charted a rise followed by a prolonged decline. Full-year sales reached 27,656 units in 2021 (averaging approximately 2,305 units monthly), before dipping to 20,343 units in 2022. However, demand plummeted sharply thereafter—hovering around just 100 units per month across most of 2023 and 2024; retail registrations plunged to only 1 unit in October 2024 before a slight rebound to 362 units in December. Sales in 2025 hovered between 30 and 150 units monthly, with January and February 2026 recording 29 and 27 units, respectively.

In owner reviews, the Sehol X8 earns praise for its expansive cabin (2,830 mm wheelbase), strong value proposition (starting from RM88,800), and the robust output of its 1.5T engine. On the flip side, notable drawbacks include tight third-row legroom suited only for short emergency jaunts; minimal boot space when carrying a full passenger load; a rear torsion beam suspension that lacks the ride suppleness of a multi-link independent setup; and weak brand recognition that significantly held back its commercial appeal. In summary, armed with above-segment dimensions (over 4.8 metres in length with a 2,830 mm wheelbase), versatile seating choices (5/6/7-seater), a high-output 1.5T mill (184 PS / 300 Nm), and Level 2 ADAS, the Sehol X8 established a distinctive space-and-value edge in the RM80,000–RM170,000 mid-size SUV bracket; nevertheless, hamstrung by low brand equity, slower product updates, and cut-throat market rivalry, its later market run struggled to maintain traction.