Jaecoo J8 vs KGM Rexton
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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.
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Price Breakdown
The Jaecoo J8 starts from $49,990 before on-road costs, while the KGM Rexton opens at $50,000. That makes the Jaecoo J8 the more affordable entry point by $10.
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 $54,989 and $55,000 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
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
The Jaecoo J8 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the KGM Rexton gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Jaecoo J8 stands out with head-up display, wireless charging and Sony audio that you will not find on the KGM Rexton. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Jaecoo J8 uses a Petrol producing 183kW and 385Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The KGM Rexton responds with a Turbo DDi Diesel making 149kW and 441Nm, paired to a 8-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.5 seconds.
The Jaecoo J8 has the clear power advantage at 183kW vs 149kW. In the real-world sprint, the Jaecoo J8 is 3.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Jaecoo J8 measures 4,820mm long on a 2,820mm wheelbase, 30mm shorter than the KGM Rexton at 4,850mm (2,865mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Rexton generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the Jaecoo J8 and 236L in the KGM Rexton, giving the Jaecoo J8 a 284L advantage. The KGM Rexton seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m to 11.8m
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,366/year for the Jaecoo J8 and $2,480/year for the KGM Rexton. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Jaecoo J8.
Estimated annual total: $2,366 (Jaecoo J8) vs $2,480 (KGM Rexton). The Jaecoo J8 saves you roughly $114 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 8 years / 999,999km (Jaecoo J8) vs 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Rexton). The Jaecoo J8 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Jaecoo J8 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Jaecoo's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Rexton if: You or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Jaecoo J8 takes 6 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Jaecoo J8 will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Jaecoo J8 has a clear edge. The Jaecoo J8 adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Jaecoo J8 and KGM Rexton?
The Jaecoo J8 is the cheapest at $49,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the KGM Rexton by $10.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Jaecoo J8 uses the least fuel at 8.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Jaecoo J8 and KGM Rexton carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which has the most boot space?
The Jaecoo J8 has the largest boot at 520L.
Which can tow the most?
The KGM Rexton has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Jaecoo J8 has the longest warranty at 8 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Jaecoo J8 makes the most power at 183kW. The Jaecoo J8 is quickest to 100km/h in 8.5s.
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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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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