Chinese cars have long been criticised, often unfairly so. The latest models from China are a far cry from the admittedly inferior products that reached South African shores more than a decade ago. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and stylish exterior design, the new crop offers a luxurious experience at an appealing price tag.

Unsurprisingly, an increasing number of South Africans are making the switch, trading in their vehicles from well-known premium brands for the latest Chinese models. Adele, a first-time Chinese car owner, is one such example. After owning three German luxury cars from the same brand, she recently purchased a JAECOO J7 Vortex. 

Adele and her husband had done their research, reading several reviews before they decided to check the J7 out in person. They were immediately impressed by the styling and the quality of the interior. But the advanced safety features and technology sealed the deal. “We went for a test drive and were hooked immediately. My five-year-old son even commented that it drives better than my previous car,” she laughed.

“It’s a very different experience with the technology. At first, it takes some getting used to—there aren’t many buttons to press inside—but now we’re really enjoying it,” Adele adds, referring to the central touchscreen that operates most of the vehicle controls.

While Chinese cars have often been associated with poor quality, Adele was surprised by the materials and overall feel of the J7. “I’ve always believed that you can feel the quality of a car when you close the door. The sound it makes says a lot about the build. I always look at it when we’re purchasing a new car,” she added, commenting on the solid feel of the J7’s doors.

Another key factor in her decision was the price. Adele had contemplated replacing her German luxury car with a new model but was put off by the increasingly high costs. “The prices keep rising. They base the price on the quality of the product. Sure, it’s a German car, but technology-wise, it doesn’t feel like they’re improving much,” she says. The J7, on the other hand, offered an appealing combination of advanced features at a competitive price.

Initially, Adele was sceptical about the quality of Chinese vehicles. “I thought they looked good, but I wasn’t sure about the quality. I knew a few people who drove Chinese cars, like Cherys, and they said they were happy with them.” She noticed an increasing number of these vehicles on the road and figured these automakers must be doing something right. “When you hear ‘made in China,’ you automatically think of certain things, but look at how many things in our lives come from China.”

As a mother to a young boy, Adele’s main concern was safety. Unsure about the safety standards of Chinese vehicles, her worries were quickly alleviated when she learned more about the J7’s safety features. “The J7 has all the airbags and driver assistance features you could ask for. The safety features are incredible; it warns me of vehicles in my blind spots and other drivers following too closely. It’s so advanced.”

What really surprised Adele, though, was the amount of attention she’s received since purchasing the J7. “I’ve never gotten so many compliments about a car. Everywhere I stop—whether it’s at the shops or in a parking lot—people comment on it. You can see people staring everywhere you stop, and I’ve had countless people telling me how amazing the car looks or wanting to look at the interior. This has never happened with my previous cars. It’s definitely turning heads.”

Switching from a German luxury vehicle to a Chinese car might seem like a downgrade to some, but for Adele, her JAECOO J7 has proven to be a pleasant surprise.