New Jaecoo J7 vs Haval H6 vs Ford Territory: Spec Check
We compare the specifications of the new Jaecoo J7 and the upcoming Ford Territory to see how well they stack up against those of the popular Haval H6.
If you’re in the market for a new family car, there are many candidates to consider in mid-2024! New products, such as the new Jaecoo J7 are arriving to give established products, such as the Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Subaru Forester and the Haval H6 a run for their money!
Chery’s new Jaecoo sub-brand is now in South Africa and the J7 is the first family-car model in its line-up. Mzansi is also the first right-hand-drive market in which the Chinese brand has been introduced.
After discontinuing several models such as the Figo, Fiesta and EcoSport, Ford is now making a passenger-car comeback of sorts, given the recent launch of its Puma compact crossover and the arrival of the Ford Territory family SUV, which will be formally launched at the end of April 2024.
Since both the Jaecoo J7 and Ford Territory are produced in China, we think it’s appropriate to pit them against a hugely successful Chinese-made family car in SA — yes, you guessed it, the Haval H6!
Haval, Great Wall Motor’s luxury SUV division, has been on a tear since the (now prominent) brand arrived on local soil in 2017. Steady sales of its Jolion compact SUV and H6 family SUV have propelled the brand up the sales chart to become one of the country’s best-selling SUV marques.
Now, with the Jaecoo J7 in the family car mix and the Ford Territory joining the fray, how do their spec sheets and prices compare with those of the Haval H6? Which car has the strongest buying proposition?
This article aims to help you, the consumer, make an informed buying decision (or at least finalise your shortlist of contenders). To help you do this, we will provide you with the need-to-know information and insight based on available vehicle information and our experience with the cars in question.
This article will cover key aspects including Exterior Styling, Performance & Efficiency, Interior Features & Safety, Dimensions & Practicality, as well as Pricing & Warranty details. Note that we have spent limited time with the Jaecoo J7 (at its media launch only) and have yet to drive the Ford Territory (but soon will). Our feedback regarding performance will be updated once we have thoroughly tested these cars.
If, at the end of this article, you are still undecided about what to buy, you are more than welcome to reach out to us for advice via X, Facebook or Instagram. Our experienced test team will gladly assist you.
New Jaecoo J7 vs Haval H6 vs Ford Territory
Exterior Styling
Jaecoo J7
The Jaecoo J7 comes to market with a suave design. Its upright slatted grille and slim headlights make a strong style statement, while its hidden door handles and sleek haunches enhance the modernised look.
The J7 range comprises 3 derivatives: the front-wheel-drive 1.6T Vortex and 1.6T Glacier (riding on 18-inch alloy wheels), as well as the range-topping 1.6T Inferno AWD, which gains larger (19-inch) rims.
Haval H6
The Haval H6 has been on the local market for 3 years, but its exterior design is wearing well, especially the front end, with its meshed grille with a chrome-like finish, flanked by elongated LED headlamps.
The H6 range comprises both front- and all-wheel-drive derivatives with Premium, Luxury, Super Luxury trim lines on offer. In addition, the H6 HEV (Hybrid) is offered in Ultra Luxury guise and, for those looking for a sportier H6 experience, the H6 GT is also available.
Ford Territory
The Ford Territory boasts an attractive front-end design characterised by a distinctive grille design and daytime-running-light signature. Chrome finishes add a dash of class to the package and a tapering silhouette provides a sense of athleticism.
There are 3 Territory trim options on offer: the base Ambiente, mid-spec Trend (both with 18-inch alloy wheels) and a range-topping Titanium (with 19-inch alloy wheels).
Performance & Efficiency
| Jaecoo J7 | Haval H6 | Ford Territory | |
| Powertrain | 1.6-litre turbopetrol | 2.0-litre turbopetrol 1.5-litre turbopetrol Hybrid | 1.8-litre turbopetrol |
| Power Output | 145 kW | 150 kW (Standard)155 kW (H6 GT) 179 kW (H6 HEV) | 138 kW |
| Torque Output | 290 Nm | 320 Nm (Standard) 325 Nm (H6 GT)530 Nm (H6 HEV) | 318 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (Standard, H6 GT) CVT (H6 HEV) | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Fuel Consumption (Claimed) | 7.0 L/100km (FWD) 7.8 L/100km (AWD) | 7.4 L/100km (Standard) 8.4 L/100km (H6 GT) 5.2 L/100km (H6 HEV) | 7.0 L/100km |
Jaecoo J7
We recently drove the Jaecoo J7 at its local launch in Johannesburg and while it doesn’t perform poorly, it does lack some urgency in terms of acceleration. This is a result of its tardy transmission calibration, which while smooth in operation, is sluggish to respond to throttle inputs. Admittedly, even though this might irk a few buyers, it’s unlikely to unsettle those who will be happy with the Jaecoo’s workmanlike performance and high feature value proposition, especially in 1.6T Glacier guise.
The Jaecoo J7 does have a comfortable ride quality (it’s not firmly sprung), which family car buyers will appreciate. According to our correspondent, the J7’s steering feel is light, which makes it a breeze to execute parking manoeuvres, but it does lack a sense of directness with a vague steering response.
Note that the above assessment is based only on our initial first drive of the Jaecoo J7 and we will hopefully have it on test for a more thorough evaluation soon.
Read our Jaecoo J7 Launch Review
Haval H6
Compared with the J7’s 1.6-litre turbopetrol powertrain, the H6’s 2.0-litre 4-pot turbopetrol is punchier and quite well-calibrated with the transmission to deliver a pleasing driving experience. There’s sufficient oomph for overtaking (when required) and the H6 pips its countryman with good overall performance.
As far as ride quality is concerned, the H6 doesn’t disappoint. While the Haval’s suspension is relatively firmly sprung, it doesn’t sacrifice overall ride comfort. As it turns out, it contributes to a more engaging drive, in combination with a more direct and communicative steering feel.
The performance of the H6 HEV is even more impressive, boasting the full-fat 179 kW and 530 Nm of torque, which is plenty for a family car. The H6 HEV is also the most frugal in the range (5.2 L/100 km versus standard derivatives’ 7.4 L/100 km), which is important considering the rising cost of fuel.
As for the sportier H6 GT, it does offer 5 more kW than its standard stablemate and its drive modes facilitate noticeably livelier performance, but the H6 GT is more of a design enhancement on the H6 family car rather than a performance upgrade; it should appeal to style-conscious family car buyers.
Ford Territory
Will the Ford Territory outperform its rivals? We will know soon enough! Like its rivals, it utilises a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but in this case, it’s mated with a 138 kW/318 Nm 1.8-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine. For now, we’ll have to reserve judgment about the Ford’s performance abilities, as we’ll only get to drive the newcomer at the end of April 2024 (at the local media launch).
However, its on-paper stats suggest average performance, but it is claimed to match the front-wheel-drive Jaecoo J7’s claimed consumption of 7.0 L/100 km. We will update this article as soon as we can.
Interior Execution and Features
For the purpose of this feature comparison, we will compare the specifications offered in the range-topping derivatives of each model range.
You can study the feature comparison here or you can use our handy New Car Comparison Tool to compare any car models you like!
| Jaecoo J7 Inferno AWD | Haval H6 HEV Ultra Luxury | Ford Territory Titanium | |
| Infotainment system | 14.8-inch portrait-style touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes, 10.25-inch digital display with Head-UP Display | Yes, 10.25-inch digital display, with Head-Up display | Yes, 12.3-inch digital display is integrated into a single panoramic display |
| Android Auto / Apple CarPlay | Yes, both | Yes, both | Yes, both |
| Bluetooth, Voice Control, USB, Wireless Charging | Yes to all. 2 front USB, 2 rear USB | Yes, but no voice control, 1 front USB 1 rear USB | Yes to all. 3 front USB, 1 rear USB |
| Rear View Camera | Yes, with panoramic view (360 degrees) | Yes, with panoramic view (360 degrees) | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment: Rake / Reach | Yes, both | Yes, both | Yes, both |
| Cruise Control | Yes, adaptive | Yes, adaptive | Yes, adaptive |
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Climate Control | Dual Zone Climate Control | Dual Zone Climate Control |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Yes, sliding | Yes | Yes, dual-sliding |
| Upholstery / electric seats | Artificial leather, front electric seats with heating/ventilation | Artificial leather, front electric seats with heating/ventilation | Leather, manual adjustment |
| Front / Rear Park Distance Control | Both | Both | Both |
| Safety Features | 8 airbags, ABS with EBS, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control , Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Hill Descent Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring | 8 airbags, ABS with EBS, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control , Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Hill Descent Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring | 6 airbags, ABS with EBS, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control , Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Hill Descent Control, Forward Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring |
Jaecoo J7
The Jaecoo J7 features a minimalist interior design execution, replete with one of the largest, if not the largest, central touchscreens in the family-car segment. The J7’s standard specification is generous, even in the base 1.6T Vortex offering, with the mid-spec Glacier arguably being the pick of the range.
Compared with the Haval H6 and Ford Territory, the Jaecoo has the most airbags (8) and its standard safety specification is indeed very good. Some safety features seem overly sensitive, however; they tend to trigger multiple (intrusive) audible warnings, which you can only deactivate via the touchscreen menu.
Haval H6
Haval’s fully loaded standard specification strategy has paid off – it’s one of the reasons why the H6 has proven such a hit in the South African new-vehicle market. Beyond the Haval’s neat and modern cabin execution, buyers are availed of a wide range of comfort and convenience features.
Oddly, voice control is omitted from the spec sheet and the user-friendliness of the H6’s infotainment screen could be improved. Other than that, buyers are getting high feature value in this model.
Ford Territory
While we can’t comment on the build quality of the Territory’s interior (yet), it certainly looks appealing! The highlight feature is the expansive screen that houses the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen, which reminds of the infotainment screens seen in the latest Mercedes-Benz models.
That’s a good thing, because the panoramic screen gives the cabin a decidedly premium ambience, which might partly justify the Territory’s higher-than-average asking price. Other interior highlights include a dual-panel panoramic “Moonroof”, but the Territory does lack a few nice-to-haves such as electric seat adjustment and ventilated seats.
Dimensions and Practicality
| Jaecoo J7 | Haval H6 | Ford Territory | |
| Length | 4 500 mm | 4 653 mm | 4 630 mm |
| Width | 1 865 mm | 1 886 mm | 1 935 mm |
| Height | 1 680 mm | 1 730 mm | 1 706 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 672 mm | 2 738 mm | 2 726 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1 709 kg | 1 720 kg | 1 630 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm | 170 mm | 190 mm |
| Load Capacity | 412 litres | 600 litres | 435 litres |
Jaecoo J7
The J7 has a smaller footprint than the H6 and Territory, but has the highest clearance advantage of the 3 models (200 mm), which is useful if you intend to venture off tar. Moreover, if you opt for the range-topping 1.6T Inferno AWD, which is equipped with Jaecoo’s All Road Drive Intelligent System (ARDIS) that has 7 drive modes (including Sand and Mud), you’ll have some added confidence in the dirt.
Note that the Jaecoo’s wheelbase is also shorter, which will, inevitably, translate into less cabin space for passengers and luggage. The J7 is fitted with a full-size spare, which results in a shallow load bay with a claimed capacity of 412 litres, which contrasts starkly with the generous 600 litres offered by the H6.
Haval H6
The numbers suggest the Haval H6 is the most practical offering compared with the J7 and Territory. It has a generously-sized load bay for hauling luggage and the boot-floor height can be easily adjusted.
While its ground clearance (170 mm) is the lowest in this trio of family cars, the AWD-equipped H6 has an off-road driving mode to maximise traction should you decide to drive on an unsealed surface.
Ford Territory
Equipped with a “Mountain” mode and a ground clearance of 190 mm, the Ford Territory is expected to be a comfortable gravel cruiser, but like its rivals, it’s not an off-roader; consider it more suitable for “soft roading”. We’ll reserve judgment on the Territory’s practicality until we’ve seen and driven it ourselves.
Price and Warranty
Be sure to check out our New Car Specials to get a good deal on your next car!
Buy a used Jaecoo J7 on Cars.co.za
Buy a used Haval H6 on Cars.co.za
Buy a used Ford Territory on Cars.co.za
| Jaecoo J7 | Price | Haval H6 | Price | Ford Territory | Price | |
| Entry | J7 1.6T Vortex (FWD) | R549 900 | H6 2.0GDIT Premium (FWD) | R492 050 | Territory 1.8 Ambiente | R576 000 |
| Mid | J7 1.6 T Glacier (FWD | R599 900 | H6 2.0GDIT Luxury (FWD) | R537 050 | Territory 1.8T Trend | R632 600 |
| H6 2.0GDITLuxury (AWD) | R569 350 | |||||
| Top | J7 1.6T Inferno (AWD) | R679 900 | H6 2.0GDIT Super Luxury | R610 750 | Territory 1.8T Titanium | R707 000 |
| H6 2.0GDIT GT | R652 250 | |||||
| H6 1.6T HEV Ultra Luxury | R679 950 | |||||
| Warranty | 5-year / 150 000 km vehicle warranty and 10-year / 1 000 000 km engine warranty for 1st owner | 5-year / 100 000 km warranty | 4-year / 120 000 km warranty | |||
| Service Plan | 5-year / 70 000 km | 5-year / 60 000 km | Service plan is optional |
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Final Thoughts
While the new Jaecoo J7 presents a compelling value proposition, especially in 1.6T Glacier guise, we don’t think its pricing and value offering (in top-spec guise) is stronger than that of the Haval H6. With middling performance and compromised practicality, the J7 has its drawbacks. Nonetheless, we’d like to spend more time with the J7 to give it a fair assessment before judging it too harshly.
The Haval H6, in the company of the J7, is a more well-rounded offering, while the added performance and efficiency of the H6 HEV is hard to ignore, given that the J7 Inferno AWD and H6 HEV are so closely priced. A facelifted H6 reveal is imminent with a local introduction in 2025 likely.
As for the Ford Territory, it’s a pricier proposition and we suspect the mid-spec 1.8T Trend will be the sweet spot in the range. Also note that a service plan is optional on the Territory, while the Jaecoo J7 boasts a superior warranty. Again, we will reserve full judgment on the Ford Territory, for now…
Stay tuned for further updates on this article in the near future!
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