The JAECOO 7 has topped Carwow’s model configuration rankings for the first five weeks of Q2 2025, becoming the platform’s most-configured vehicle over that period and surpassing established rivals including the Hyundai Tucson and BYD Seal U.

Despite only launching in the UK in November 2024, the JAECOO 7 is already Carwow’s third most-configured vehicle year-to-date. Since 1st April, it has generated 101% more configurations than the Hyundai Tucson, with the BYD Seal U rounding out the top three for Q2.

Carwow attributes JAECOO’s success to a strong UK launch strategy, underpinned by high-profile media partnerships and a focus on building brand awareness and consumer engagement.

Sepi Arani, managing director of media and commercial at Carwow, said: “Carwow has welcomed the opportunity to support JAECOO’s ambitious UK launch strategy, helping to build consumer awareness and engagement with a highly tailored media partnership. The rapid rise of the JAECOO 7 — now the most-configured model on Carwow in Q2 — is a clear sign of how quickly consumer perceptions are shifting. It’s a standout example of how well-executed market entries, backed by real value and smart branding, can shake up the status quo in record time.”

The JAECOO 7 also placed eighth in Carwow’s most-viewed reviews in April, joining BYD and OMODA as new entrants to the top ten. In the same period, BYD’s Seal, Sealion 7 and Seal U occupied the first, second and fifth positions respectively, while the OMODA 5 came sixth.

A recent Carwow survey found that 39% of users would consider a Chinese brand for their next car, with 38% stating they view Chinese-made vehicles as better value for money – up from 21% in 2023.

Arani added: “As we saw at the Auto Shanghai show, Chinese manufacturers have huge international growth ambitions and are now entering Europe with a more strategic approach, openly announcing they’ve learned from their early market entry mistakes.

“The biggest challenge for Chinese OEMs remains differentiation. With so many brands offering similar designs and comparable quality, the key to success in Europe is building a strong, distinctive brand identity. Instead of focusing solely on speed of entry, many new entrants are now choosing to build reputable after-sales and service networks, invest in market research, brand-building and marketing strategies, before launching for sales.

“These developments are fascinating to watch and will certainly shape how we think about car-changing and ownership for years to come, underlining just how dynamic and competitive the next few years will be. The race is on — and it’s about much more than just electrification.”