The Chery J1 is a modern styled vehicle from the Chinese car maker Chery Automobile and Avtotor. It has all the flair and style you will expect from any modern vehicle on the market today. It is one of the economic small cars that are designed specifically for the small cars segment and takes on the 1.3 L engine. South Africa is served with two models by Chery Automobile. The 1.3 L engine does justice to the need for economic solutions and still does not falter when it comes to performance.

The 1.3 L engine uses 4 cylinders and the engine adopts a front wheel drive format. The engine is capable of generating a maximum power of 61kW at 6000 rpm. The maximum torque delivered is estimated at 114Nm at 3800 rpm. It has a kerb mass of 1040kg, while its Gross Vehicle Mass is 1415kg. It measures 3700mm in length and 1578mm in width, while the height is 1527mm. A ground clearance of 124mm and the 14 inch tyre ensures that the J1 remains solid on the road and stuck on the tar and gravel when on the go. With a wheelbase of 2390mm and a front track of 1370mm, and rear track of 1355mm, the J1 is very good family option for those long trips, as it allows you free hands by easily tucking away the entire necessary luggage when on a family outing or trip. As a family, you can be assured to tuck in five people very comfortably.

The 1.3 L engine on the two models uses petrol, and the fuel consumption is estimated at 6.7L per 100km and with a tank of 43L, this means that the driver can have peace of mind on the highway when going any distance below 630km, which is the maximum distance that can e travelled before a refill. Solid driving and safety is courtesy of the MacPherson struts on the front suspension, while the rear suspension takes on trailing arms with coils. On long trips the driver does not have to be fatigued on the steering wheel, as the power steering will make maneuvering easy; and even with your fingers, you can control the vehicle. In support of the MacPherson struts and the trailing arms for the front and rear suspension, the J1 comes with safety features that include ABS, the Electronic Brake-force Distribution and the front disks and rear drums.

The passengers and driver has access to entertainment in the car, provided by the AM/FM radio & the CD player, supported by four speakers on both models. Additional safety and security is also provided by side impact protection bars, front row dual airbags, central locking with remote function, transponder and the engine immobilizer. With the engine immobilizer and the transponder, the J1 is no longer on the list of the most targeted vehicles for hi-jacking. The safety and security of children is safeguarded by the child locks on rear doors. The driver is also made happy with the adjustable steering column which allows for the best control position and the best driving position; this also reduces the risk when on the road, as most highway accidents are caused by fatigue and stress on the long drives.

Both models feature the 14 inch aluminium alloy wheels rims, while the interior features the fabric fine work. The front and rear seats also allow for manual adjustment for the best seating position, thereby enhancing comfort and luxury in the car. Further comfort and convenience is provided courtesy of features such as the aircon, the electric windows and reverse park distance control on the top model. A trip computer also features on the Chery J1 and the exterior of the J1 is defined by the High mounted brake light on both models, while the electric mirrors feature on the top model. The vehicle has done exceptionally well on the market, taking on such famous brands such as the Daihatsu’s portfolio of small cars, and remaining as a recognizable force and offering in the small car segment.