Despite its small size, the JAC S1 is capable. The S1 is the smallest subcompact crossover. It is fashionable and has a cool exterior style. What gives the S1 its trademark and what makes it unique among other subcompact crossovers is its hanging roof and two-toned body. The headlights use a double-light lens LED lamp. This also comes with daytime driving lights. When viewed from one side, the S1 showcases a hydrodynamic body as what JAC refers to it. On the interior, one can see a digital combination instrument cluster, it uses a cold light source with a three-dimensional effect. For your audio and visual needs, the S1 comes with a 7-inch LCD touchscreen. Your Bluetooth smartphone can be controlled through the steering wheel. For an enjoyable and a trouble-free driving experience, the S1 offers an intelligent voice system. Present in the JAC S1 is a 1.3-liter gasoline that provides power of 99 hp and 126 Nm of torque. It comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and max speed is 160 km/h. The model is also Euro 5-compliant. The JAC S1 Chinese, mini subcompact crossover comes in white, red and blue.
Launch
The Rein or the JAC S1 which is built by JAC in Hefei, Anhui is a replica of the Hyundai Santa Fe which was launched in July 2006 during the Guangzhou motor show. It was later replaced by the JAC S5 (Refine S5 or Rein II) in 2013. In 2004, JAC stated that it was talks about the joint building of the Santa Fe in China. Later, in the same year Hyundai chose Hawtai as partner on the SUV project. JAC chose to reproduce the Santa Fe and release it, having the JAC trademark.
The JAC S1 is compact, youthful-looking car that's great for tight city roads (Chilean-spec model shown)
Exterior
One of the first reactions upon seeing the JAC S1 is it looks cute. It has a ground clearance of 180 mm. It has a crossover mood and this is because of the low outlook angles plus a tall appearance ride height. What makes it unique looking is its rear where the spare tire is attached. The spare tire is attached to the back door which is something rare on a regular vehicle. On the front portion of the car, the S1 has halogen headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Compared to the S1s competitors, halogen reflectors are used instead. Front and rear fog lights are added in case of low visibility. For cargo, there are roof rails available.
Interior
When it comes to the interior of the JAC S1, you are welcomed with a black and red theme. The dash comes in red plastic that runs over up to the door sidings and the seats as well. When it comes to the seats, it comes in fabric that also adapts to the black and red theme. The seating position is high enough for you to see the road, however the seating adjustment is limited. The large windows and short hood gives the interior a large look. Its large looks is also credited to the high seating position. It gives one the feeling of driving a big vehicle.
Technology & Safety Features
The JAC S1 is different from other vehicles in the market since it features a digital RPM gauge. Though it is a good idea, its performance needs a little push since there is a lag when the accelerator is hit and the rev counter increases. Also included is a 7-inch touch screen with redundant buttons. The Bluetooth works well with your phones. The buttons for navigation and operation of the head unit are laid out in an easy and simple pattern which is also easy to understand and use. It also has a reverse camera and backup sensors. The sensors are activated when near an object. Another important feature of the S1 is the tire pressure monitor. The S1 has two airbags: one for the driver and another one for the front passenger. A three-point seatbelt is available. ISOFIX tethers are available for younger passengers. An ABS and EBD system comes with the vehicle as a standard. A central door locking system and speed sensing door locks are available for additional convenience.
Platform & Chassis
The JAC S1 has a crossover body type with an A segment. It is constructed as a unibody with 5 doors. It can seat 2+3 passengers. It is 3,775 mm long, 1,685 mm wide and 1,570 mm tall. Its wheelbase is 2,390 mm with curb weight of 1,060 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 35 L.
Under the JAC S1 is the JAC S1 VVT MT 2020. It has a manual transmission and a crossover body type.
Engine & Drivetrain
The JAC S1 has an engine size of 1.3L with 4 cylinders and 16 valves. It uses aluminum gasoline that offers VVT. It has a front-wheel drive drivetrain with max output of 99 hp at 6,000 rpm, its max torque is 126 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Its top speed is 160 km/h. The power is directed to the front wheels coming from a 5-speed manual transmission.