Jaecoo's UK range has just expanded by around five metres with the arrival of its new flagship model, the seven-seater plug-in hybrid 8 SHS-P. 

We know about Jaecoo’s ‘super hybrid system’, but the 8 adds a new letter to denote its plug-in hybrid status. Exciting times. 

Propulsion comes courtesy of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and e-motor with a three-speed automatic transmission. In a first for Jaecoo, the 8 is not just four-wheel drive but features a lockable differential to provide a bit of extra off-road capability. 

Inside, it’s just as practical with two seating layouts featuring six seats (with heated and ventilated captain’s chairs in the back plus folding seats in the boot) or seven seats (a middle row bench and folding seats in the boot). 

There are just the two trims available, depending on which seating layout you want to go for – the Luxury is the seven-seat model, which will set you back £45,500, and the Executive is the six-seat model and costs £47,500. That price puts it squarely in Skoda Kodiaq territory, so it's up against a strong rival.

All cars get wireless Apple/Android connectivity as standard, panoramic sunroof, 12.3in infotainment display up front and a fancy Sony sound system plus headrest speakers up front. The Executive model adds Nappa leather inside to go with the executive seating. We’re assured a fancy specification across the range, and Jaecoo says that the only optional extra to pay for is the paint. 

In the boot you’ve got 738 litres of space (up to the roof, where others usually quote to the window line) and 2,021 litres with the seats down. 

The plug-in hybrid system is fed by a 34.5kWh battery that is good for 83 miles of WLTP range – the battery can be fast charged at 40kW for a 30%–80% fill in 20 minutes and offers a perky 6.6kW V2L capability, which means you can run electrics off the car’s battery. If you want a full electric Jaecoo you'll still have to make do with the smaller E5 model, of course. 

All 8s will benefit from Jaecoo’s standard issue 7-year/100,000-mile warranty, with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery. The company says that the order books are open now for the new 8, with deliveries expected to start around May. 

Still trying to decide between going for a plug-in or a full electric vehicle? Check out our explainer here. Or maybe you're considering a seven-seat EV. We've listed our favourites here. 

Room for two children in the boot here, though they'd be more comfortable if you folded the seats out first