Natasha Dury

JAECOO has taken a bold step into the spotlight with its all-new JAECOO J5, recently showcased at an exclusive regional test drive event in the serene natural enclave of Al Barari, Dubai. Under the theme Go Discover, the event offered more than just a look at the SUV’s capabilities — it was an immersive celebration of design, lifestyle, and innovation that drew over 60 leading journalists and influencers from across the Middle East.

The carefully curated experience invited guests to discover the J5’s character on a 20 km city-style route entirely within Al Barari. Winding through lush green avenues and tranquil residential streets, the drive highlighted the SUV’s smooth handling and refined ride. With front-wheel drive and three versatile modes — Normal, Eco, and Sport — the J5 easily adapted to varied driving styles and urban scenarios. Its independent suspension system absorbed every bump in the road, ensuring a confident, composed performance on city streets.

Among the standout features was the 540° panoramic imaging system, which delivered exceptional visibility around tight corners and narrow lanes. For those navigating the complexities of city parking, the technology offered the kind of peace of mind that modern drivers expect.

Step inside, and the J5 quickly reveals its mission to turn every journey into an experience. The cabin transforms into a private music lounge with an advanced SONY sound system featuring eight speakers. A noise-cancelling microphone and karaoke mode made for an unforgettable highlight — during a break in the drive, guests joined in an impromptu sing-along as laughter and music carried across the palm-lined paths.

Practicality was another strong theme of the event. Guests explored the J5’s spacious trunk and its thoughtful utility touches, including a hands-free electric tailgate that opens with a simple foot gesture under the bumper. Whether carrying shopping bags or camping gear, the feature added a welcome layer of elegance and convenience.

In a stylish outdoor showcase, the J5’s camping-ready ecosystem took centre stage. Detachable magnetic LED lights, clever gear storage solutions, and strong rooftop load capacity demonstrated how effortlessly the SUV supports an active, adventurous lifestyle. From weekend escapes to family road trips, the J5 proved it is ready to be both a daily driver and a gateway to discovery.

Throughout the day, the vehicle’s confident presence, musical ambiance, and thoughtful design left a lasting impression. More than just an SUV, the JAECOO J5 is a reflection of modern aspirations — blending technology, comfort, and versatility into a single dynamic package.

As the J5 prepares to officially launch in the UAE this August, this immersive test drive experience firmly positioned it as a lifestyle-driven SUV crafted for those who see driving not merely as a routine, but as an expression of freedom, self-expression, and joy. For the new generation of urban explorers, the message was clear: it’s time to go discover.