Chery Tiggo 7 & 8 : In a significant expansion of its eco-friendly vehicle lineup, Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery is preparing to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of its popular Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 SUVs to the Australian market this July.
The refreshed models will showcase not only updated styling but also Chery’s innovative hybrid technology, marking a pivotal moment in the brand’s growth strategy for the Australian market.
Revolutionary Hybrid Technology Comes to Australia
The mid-size Tiggo 7 and the larger Tiggo 8 will feature Chery’s advanced Super Hybrid system, officially known as the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH).
This sophisticated powertrain represents the culmination of years of research and development, positioned to compete with established hybrid offerings from Japanese and European manufacturers.
At the heart of this system lies a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, meticulously engineered to deliver both performance and efficiency.
This conventional powerplant works in harmony with a stepless dedicated hybrid transmission and an 18.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery – a chemistry known for its enhanced safety profile and longevity compared to traditional lithium-ion configurations.
The integration of these components results in impressive performance figures. While specific outputs for the Australian-spec Tiggo models haven’t been confirmed, we can look to Chery’s Jaecoo J7 – which utilizes the same system – for reference.
In that application, the petrol engine generates 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, complemented by an electric motor producing 150kW and 310Nm, yielding combined system outputs of 255kW and 525Nm – figures that position these vehicles competitively in the performance-hybrid segment.
Exceptional Range and Charging Capabilities
Perhaps most remarkable about these upcoming models is their electric-only range, which exceeds 90km on a single charge – significantly higher than many competing PHEVs in the Australian market.
This practical electric range means many drivers could potentially complete their daily commutes without engaging the petrol engine at all, substantially reducing both fuel consumption and emissions.
When both power sources work in concert, the total driving range extends beyond an impressive 1,200km, alleviating any range anxiety for drivers planning longer journeys. This makes the Tiggo PHEVs uniquely positioned as both urban commuters and long-distance tourers.
Unlike many plug-in hybrids currently available, Chery has equipped these vehicles with DC fast-charging capability – a feature typically reserved for fully electric vehicles.
This innovative approach allows the battery to recharge from 30 to 80 percent capacity in just 19 minutes when connected to a suitable fast charger, dramatically reducing downtime and enhancing convenience for owners.
The petrol engine itself boasts a claimed thermal efficiency of 44.5 percent – an exceptional figure that places it among the most efficient internal combustion engines in production.
Similarly, the transmission achieves 98.5 percent efficiency, minimizing power losses throughout the drivetrain.
Sophisticated Design Evolution
The refreshed Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 models represent an evolution of Chery’s design language, with a more sophisticated and premium aesthetic that aligns with the brand’s upmarket aspirations.
The exterior styling showcases a bold stance with clear European influences, featuring clean lines and thoughtful proportions.
The Tiggo 7, positioned in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, sports a dynamic silhouette with distinctive character lines along its profile. The front fascia presents a modern interpretation of Chery’s signature grille design, flanked by sleek LED headlights that incorporate daytime running lights.
The rear features a tailgate spoiler and wraparound LED taillights connected by a light bar – a design element becoming increasingly common in contemporary SUVs.
The larger Tiggo 8, which accommodates three rows of seating, adopts a more substantial presence on the road with increased dimensions. Its wheelbase of 2,710mm provides generous interior space, while the overall length of 4,720mm positions it squarely in the large SUV category.
The design maintains family resemblance to its smaller sibling but introduces unique elements that emphasize its flagship status, including more prominent chrome accents and a more upright stance.
Both models will be available in a range of distinctive colors, allowing customers to personalize their vehicles according to their preferences.
Cutting-Edge Interior and Technology
Stepping inside either Tiggo model reveals Chery’s commitment to contemporary technology and comfort. The Tiggo 7 features an integrated dual-screen arrangement spanning an impressive 24.6 inches from corner to corner, creating an immersive digital cockpit experience.
This setup incorporates both the driver’s instrument cluster and the central infotainment system in a visually seamless configuration.
The interior materials have been carefully selected to create an upscale ambiance, with soft-touch surfaces in key contact areas and contrast stitching adding visual interest.
The ergonomic layout prioritizes driver comfort and intuitive control access, with physical buttons retained for frequently used functions while relegating less common adjustments to the touchscreen interface.
Convenience features abound, including wireless smartphone charging, a powered tailgate, and ambient lighting that can be customized to suit the driver’s mood.
The climate control system offers multi-zone functionality, allowing different temperature settings for various areas of the cabin.
The larger Tiggo 8 builds upon this foundation with additional luxury touches befitting its position as the range-topper. Its three-row configuration can accommodate seven passengers, with the ability to reconfigure the space for various passenger and cargo needs.
The seats themselves feature enhanced padding and support compared to previous generations, with the front seats offering heating, ventilation, and memory functions in higher trim levels.
Advanced Driver Assistance and Safety
Safety remains a paramount concern for Chery, and both Tiggo PHEVs come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems.
These include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
The structural integrity of the vehicles has been enhanced through the use of high-strength steel in critical areas, creating a rigid safety cage around the occupants.
Multiple airbags are strategically positioned throughout the cabin, including front, side, curtain, and in some configurations, knee airbags for the driver.
Parking assistance features make maneuvering these SUVs in tight spaces considerably easier, with a 360-degree camera system providing a birds-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Ultrasonic sensors detect obstacles that might be outside the driver’s line of sight, while automatic parking functionality can identify suitable spaces and control steering during parking maneuvers.
Versatile Performance Across Various Terrains
The Tiggo PHEVs aren’t merely designed for urban environments – they offer genuine capability across various driving conditions. The hybrid system incorporates multiple driving modes, allowing drivers to select the appropriate setting for their current needs.
In pure electric mode, the vehicles operate silently and with zero emissions, ideal for urban environments and short commutes.
Hybrid mode intelligently manages the interplay between electric and petrol power to optimize efficiency, while a power mode harnesses the full output of both power sources for maximum performance when needed.
For more challenging conditions, the on-demand all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction. Though primarily operating in front-wheel-drive configuration to maximize efficiency under normal conditions, the system can instantly direct torque to the rear wheels when slippage is detected.
This capability has been demonstrated on specially constructed courses featuring ramps, moguls, and other obstacles, showcasing the vehicles’ abilities in adverse conditions.
The abundant torque from the electric motors proves particularly beneficial for low-speed maneuvers and off-road scenarios, providing immediate response without the need to build engine revs.
Additionally, the regenerative braking system not only recovers energy during deceleration but also offers enhanced control during descents on loose or slippery surfaces.
Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape
The introduction of these plug-in hybrid models represents a strategic move for Chery in the Australian market.
While the brand initially entered with the Omoda 5 small SUV, these more substantial offerings with advanced electrification technology demonstrate Chery’s ambition to compete across multiple segments and price points.
The timing of this launch coincides with growing consumer interest in electrified vehicles, spurred by increasing fuel prices and environmental consciousness.
By offering plug-in hybrids rather than pure electric vehicles, Chery addresses the concerns of customers who appreciate the benefits of electrification but remain hesitant about the limitations of battery-only propulsion.
In terms of pricing, official figures remain undisclosed, but industry analysts expect the Tiggo 7 PHEV to start in the mid-$40,000 range, with the larger Tiggo 8 PHEV commanding a premium of approximately $5,000-7,000.
This positioning would place them competitively against established hybrid models while offering greater electric range and fast-charging capability as key differentiators.
Expanding the Electrified Portfolio
While the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 will be the first models from the Chery brand to offer PHEV power in Australia, they won’t be the first from Chery as an automaker.
The company’s premium Jaecoo sub-brand is launching its J7 model this month, which features the same Super Hybrid System technology.
This strategic approach of introducing electrified vehicles across different brands and segments allows Chery to target diverse customer bases while leveraging shared technology to achieve economies of scale.
Future plans include additional PHEV models and potentially fully electric variants as the Australian market continues to embrace electrification.
The company has also indicated that its “J Series” – a more rugged, off-road-focused lineup – is in development, suggesting that the hybrid technology may eventually find its way into vehicles designed specifically for adventure-oriented customers.
Warranty and Ownership Experience
To further strengthen its position in the Australian market, Chery is expected to offer a comprehensive warranty package with these new models.
While specific terms haven’t been announced for the PHEVs, the company’s existing models feature a 7-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty on the vehicle overall, with additional coverage for the battery and hybrid components likely to be included.
The company is also expanding its dealer network across Australia to ensure convenient access to sales and service facilities.
Technicians are undergoing specialized training on the maintenance and repair of the hybrid systems, addressing potential concerns about the complexity of servicing these advanced powertrains.
Digital connectivity will enhance the ownership experience, with a smartphone app allowing remote monitoring and control of various vehicle functions.
Owners can check battery status, pre-condition the cabin temperature, and locate their vehicle from their mobile devices. Over-the-air updates will ensure that both vehicle systems and infotainment features remain current throughout the ownership period.
Environmental Credentials and Efficiency
Beyond the immediate benefits to drivers, the introduction of these PHEV models aligns with broader environmental goals. By enabling substantial electric-only driving, the vehicles can significantly reduce carbon emissions, particularly when charged using renewable energy sources.
The claimed fuel economy of approximately 1.0L/100km (based on the similar Jaecoo J7) represents a dramatic improvement over conventional internal combustion alternatives.
However, as with all plug-in hybrids, real-world efficiency depends greatly on charging frequency and driving patterns – drivers who regularly charge and primarily undertake shorter journeys will realize the greatest benefits.
The adoption of lithium iron phosphate battery chemistry also offers environmental advantages. These batteries typically require less cobalt than conventional lithium-ion cells, reducing reliance on this problematic material.
Additionally, LFP batteries generally demonstrate superior longevity and thermal stability, potentially reducing the environmental impact associated with battery replacement over the vehicle’s lifetime.
A Watershed Moment for Chery in Australia
The July 2025 arrival of the Chery Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Plug-In Hybrids represents far more than just the addition of two new models to the Australian market.
It signals Chery’s transformation from a budget-oriented newcomer to a serious contender across multiple market segments, capable of delivering sophisticated electrified vehicles with competitive specifications.
These models demonstrate the rapid advancement of Chinese automotive technology, particularly in electrification – an area where manufacturers like Chery have invested heavily.
The combination of substantial electric range, fast-charging capability, and refined design could potentially reset consumer expectations of what plug-in hybrid vehicles can offer at their respective price points.
For Australian consumers, the arrival of these vehicles translates to greater choice in the increasingly important electrified SUV segment.
Whether they’re seeking a family-friendly vehicle with reduced operating costs or a more environmentally conscious option that doesn’t compromise on practicality, the Tiggo PHEVs present a compelling proposition.
As July approaches, anticipation builds for these distinctive additions to Australia’s automotive landscape – vehicles that may well challenge established perceptions and contribute to the accelerating transition toward electrified mobility.