Chery has that cheery sort of ring to it that appeals to the imagination. Cherry is another word that is similar in tone. Certainly, the new Chery J3 provides fun, low cost running and plenty of appeal in its cleverly designed package.

Enter the Chery J3 cabin, and all the niceties are there to greet you for the journey ahead. It’s amazing to think that this car is actually selling for under $15k. What you have is an exceptionally well crafted interior that boasts leather seats and a design that is simple and elegant. Some cars in the higher price brackets would find it hard to offer the same level of trim and luxury as one finds in the pleasant Chery J3.

Switch on the audio system and a lovely balanced sound comes from the six quality speakers. MP3 compatibility means that you can play all your favourite tunes, too. All the Chery J3 passenger-door windows are operated electronically, while the remote keyless entry and audio controls on the steering wheel show that life is a relaxed affair when it comes to living with a J3. Climate control air-conditioning, auto sensing headlights and auto sensing wipers are some of the higher-end features you find in cars much more expensive than the Chery J3 happens to be.

A five-speed gearbox is linked to an 87 kW engine that feels ready to pull you along swiftly at a smooth, capable rate. The peak power is found at around 6000 rpm, while hearty torque is met in the mid-range. A good car always has its torque where it’s most wanted, and that is on the open road where you need to pull out and pass slower traffic. An average fuel consumption figure of 8.9 litres/100 km is reasonable, and is hardly going to break the bank.

On the open road the Chery J3 ride is well muted and comfy. There is plenty of predictable grip when corners are met at speed. Power steering is standard, and it feels nice and light at low speeds, while remaining solid and accurate at higher speeds.

If you are wondering about safety, the Chery J3 comes with six airbags, ABS and EBD. The high rear mounted stoplight signals boldly to traffic following behind to slow down if you meet an emergency situation that causes you to have to brake severely. Reversing sensors are standard, and these are a welcome addition if you need to park your Chery J3 in tight spaces around town.

The Chery J3 is a decent looking hatchback that has aerodynamic, smooth lines. Fog lights at the front and 16-inch alloys complete the tidy little package. Competitors like the Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20, Kia Rio and Nissan Tiida better watch there backs, as Chery will only improve.

The current Chery J3 models include the:

• Chery J3

For any more information on the Chery J3 or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Chery dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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