Jaecoo Crowned Carwow Brand of the Year 2026: A New Star on the UK Automotive Scene

In a remarkable rise to prominence, Jaecoo has been named Brand of the Year in Carwow’s 2026 “Car of the Year” Awards, a tribute to just how much this young marque has shaken up the UK market.

A Meteoric First Year

Jaecoo only launched in the UK in January 2025, but in that short time it has already sold over 21,000 cars. That level of demand, paired with a series of bold design choices and strong value, has earned the brand serious recognition, not least from Carwow’s own expert panel.

Why Carwow Loves Jaecoo

Mat Watson, Carwow’s Chief Content Officer, said it best:

“Jaecoo feels like it’s been selling cars in the UK for no more than five minutes, yet it’s taken the market by storm … Jaecoo cars look cool, pack loads of standard equipment and yet cost far less than alternatives from European, Japanese or Korean brands.”

The judges highlighted three main reasons for picking Jaecoo:

Distinctive Design Language — Jaecoo’s look is fresh and confident, combining rugged SUV sensibilities with a premium feel.
Advanced Technology & Equipment — Even entry-level models come with more kit than many rivals, making the brand very compelling.
Exceptional Value — Jaecoo offers a weirdly compelling mix: high-quality design, modern powertrains, and pricing that undercuts many established brands.

Sales Success & Market Impact

The Jaecoo 7 SHS, the plug-in hybrid version, was the UK’s best-selling PHEV in August.
In September, the 7 even ranked as the 4th best-selling car overall in the UK.
By October, the Jaecoo 7 was also the best-selling Chinese car in the UK, according to SMMT data.

These numbers underline just how deeply Jaecoo has penetrated the UK market, and in record time.

Looking Forward: More Models, More Ambition

Jaecoo isn’t stopping with the 7. The brand is already expanding its line-up with the Jaecoo 5, a compact model, and the E5, its first fully electric car. With these additions, Jaecoo is signalling that it’s not just a one-hit wonder but a long-term contender in the UK.

To support its growth, the brand also offers a 7-year / 100,000-mile warranty and RAC Home Start cover, showing that it’s serious about reliability and customer confidence.

Why This Matters

Jaecoo’s win is symbolic of a broader shift: Chinese automotive brands are gaining real credibility in Europe. Once considered budget alternatives, these new marques are now competing on design, technology, and brand value.

For UK drivers, Jaecoo’s success could mean more choice. Instead of having to choose only between traditional European or Japanese brands, buyers now have a competitive, design-forward brand that doesn’t compromise on features or value.

Final Thoughts

Being crowned Carwow Brand of the Year 2026 is a major milestone, especially for a brand that's only just landed in the UK. Jaecoo has shown that with the right mix of innovation, style, and affordability, a new automaker can make a big splash very quickly.

If you’ve been keeping an eye on Chinese brands breaking into the UK, Jaecoo’s win is a signal: this is not hype. It’s a serious, growing contender, one that’s already turning heads and winning hearts.

If you are interested in the Jaecoo range you can explore more here or give us a call on 01205 725700.