Jaecoo J7 SHS vs MG MGS5
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Jaecoo J7 SHS starts from $43,990 before on-road costs, while the MG MGS5 opens at $44,990. That makes the Jaecoo J7 SHS the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $48,389 and $49,489 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Jaecoo J7 SHS by roughly $3,070 in electricity alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Jaecoo J7 SHS stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging that you will not find on the MG MGS5. The MG MGS5 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Jaecoo J7 SHS uses a Plug-in Hybrid producing 145kW and 325Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds.
The MG MGS5 responds with a Electric Motor making 125kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds.
The Jaecoo J7 SHS has the clear power advantage at 145kW vs 125kW. In the real-world sprint, the MG MGS5 is 1.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 18.3kWh (Jaecoo J7 SHS) vs 64kWh (MG MGS5).
Space & Comfort
The Jaecoo J7 SHS measures 4,500mm long on a 2,672mm wheelbase, 24mm longer than the MG MGS5 at 4,476mm (2,730mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG MGS5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 431L in the Jaecoo J7 SHS and 453L in the MG MGS5, giving the MG MGS5 a 22L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, electricity costs roughly $58/year for the Jaecoo J7 SHS and $672/year for the MG MGS5. That is a $614 annual difference in favour of the Jaecoo J7 SHS.
Estimated annual total: $58 (Jaecoo J7 SHS) vs $672 (MG MGS5). The Jaecoo J7 SHS saves you roughly $614 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 8 years / 999,999km (Jaecoo J7 SHS) vs 10 years / 999,999km (MG MGS5). The MG MGS5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Jaecoo J7 SHS if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Jaecoo's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG MGS5 if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG MGS5 takes 5 of 8 key spec categories. The Jaecoo J7 SHS will save you roughly $614 a year in electricity. The MG MGS5 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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