Chery has extended its local offering to include the J3 hatchback. Chery claims that this new B-segment contender is an attractive package that offers generous amounts of space and practicality.
Under the bonnet is a 1,6-litre petrol engine that pushes out 87 kW and 147 N.m of torque. This unit is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The J3’s rear suspension comprises an independent, multi-link setup with an anti-roll bar.
Penned by designers from the famed Pininfarina design house, the J3 features a neatly styled front end and a distinctive rounded rear section. Chery has made only one model, the TXE, available locally and claims that the specification and safety levels are both highly competitive within the segment.
The J3 comes equipped with black leather seats and trim, climate control, automatic headlamps, an audio system that can handle MP3s and a USB device, audio controls on the steering wheel, alloy wheels, rear park distance control, electric windows and mirrors, alarm/immobiliser, remote central locking, adjustable headlamp height, individual rear reading lights, Isofix, six airbags, ABS and EBD.
The Chery J3 is priced at R179 900 and is covered by a a 3-year/100 000km warranty, 3-year/75 000km service plan and three year road side assistance.
“The J3 has been benchmarked against the popular B-segment models in South Africa and it fares well, particularly in terms of the standard equipment offering and retail price. We are confident the sporty-looking Chery J3 is going to find a ready market, particularly among the younger set and those young at heart,” said Brett Soso, managing director of Chery SA.
“We believe that the built-in quality of this new addition to the range which comes from the ultra-modern manufacturing facilities in China will find favour with local buyers of this very well-equipped value-for-money car.”
