2018 JAC S3 Technology and Safety Review

With the increasing number of safety and high-technology features coming out every day, car brands have been trying to keep up with the pace. Chinese cars are among those that are in line with the current standards and these cars have been doing so without increasing their price tags.

As I’ve found out in my general review, the 2018 JAC S3 isn’t an exemption to these Chinese cars. At P940,000, the subcompact crossover is filled with features that should make it an attractive choice among car buyers who are into high-tech and convenient stuff inside their cars. Let’s take a closer look at the S3’s technology and safety features to see the quality of these features match its abundance.

You wouldn’t think that a sub-million-peso car would have cornering lights, do you? Well, the S3 has, and with it comes automatic headlights, speed-sensing door locks, auto up and down windows on all four doors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. I must say, however, that the latter could really freeze everyone inside the car even at high noon. You might want to bring your hoodie to keep yourself warm inside the S3.

The car is also equipped with rear parking cameras that employ a clear display via the head unit. The rear sensors, however, are a bit too sensitive. It will go off even just during bumper-to-bumper situations.

With all these features present, the S3 lacks an auto-dimming rearview mirror, keyless entry, and rain-sensing wipers, but that’s fine since you can't have them all. My only gripe, though, is the displays on the air-conditioning system and multi-information display between the gauges. The multi-information display could use a different font, while the A/C display is an unknowing victim of sun glare.

What I sincerely love and one that literally stands out inside the JAC S3 is its floating touchscreen infotainment system. It’s easy to familiarize with and easy to pair up with your smartphone via Bluetooth. It doesn’t have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though, but Apple users would be delighted with its iPod connectivity. Sourcing your music from your iPhone is possible in a snap and the sound the speakers produce get two thumbs up from audiophiles like me. Handsfree calls are also loud and clear.

The S3 didn’t skimp out too much on safety features even with the numerous high-tech equipment added to the car. Of course, the standard dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and ABS with EBD are there, while extra stuff like stability control and hydraulic brake assist also come standard with this trim.

As a bonus, the JAC S3 has tire-pressure monitor, as well, which is pretty handy especially on long drives. It can be accessed via the infotainment system within two taps.