It’s not that long ago that a Chinese car brand in the UK was as rare as hen’s teeth. Then established brands like MG and Volvo were taken over by Chinese manufacturers and the rush began.
A bit like waiting for a bus: nothing, and then they all turn up at once, with the likes of BYD, Great Wall, Omoda, JAECOO. and Xpeng.
The latest, Chery, is a name that will become very familiar in the UK. Forget about the puns regarding the cherry on the icing on the cake. The name is derived from the English word ‘cheery’ – apparently a mis-translation, but the company says it represents the philosophy of bringing cheer into its family cars.
This is not some start-up manufacturer, either; it is the second largest in China and it is already in the UK. It owns both Omoda and JAECOO, two brands that are having astonishing success in this country.
The JAECOO was the UK’s best-selling plug-in hybrid in August, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
So Chery, which sells millions worldwide, decided to get a slice of the action with the launch of two models: the oddly named Tiggo 7 and seven-seater Tiggo 8 SUVs, in petrol and plug-in hybrid form.
The brand sees the UK as an important and fertile market after the success of Omoda and JAECOO. It is committed to building an R&D centre here. The plan also includes establishing a large number of dealerships.
The firm says it understands the needs of drivers and that their cars are built with British roads, lifestyles and expectations in mind for years to come.
There are two variations: the entry-level but still well-equipped Aspire, and the Summit, which adds bells and whistles like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and massaging seats, and a premium Sony audio system.
Five are seated in relative comfort in both models, while the 8 actually accommodated a six-footer in one of the rearmost seats reasonably well.
The 7 petrol model starts at £24,995, while the plug-in Hybrid (Super Hybrid) model starts at £29,995. On the seven-seater, the petrol starts at £28,545 and the hybrid from £33,545.
In addition, Chery is offering seven-year warranties together with free RAC membership. ‘Not that you should need it,’ a Chery representative was anxious to point out.
Both offer a choice of turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engines and plug-in hybrid systems that combine a 1.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors driving the front wheels.
The ‘Super Hybrid’ version also offers a substantial range in EV mode, with af 56 miles claimed and a nominal range of 745 miles
Both are stylish-looking motors, featuring high waistlines, dynamic lines and eye-catching diamond-pattern grilles.
The smaller 7 has a sportier profile with dual-L-shaped daytime running lights. The bigger three-row, Tiggo 8, however, also has a striking design, with sharp LED headlamps and a distinctive rear LED light bar.
The interiors are high quality, with soft-touch finishes prevalent both on the dash and door areas, and a logical control layout.
The first thing to strike you is the comfort, something which Chery is keen to emphasise. Seats are comfortable, fully electrically adjustable and supportive.
The brains of the car are twin displays via the 15.6-inch LCD screens, which control high-level infotainment, navigation and smartphone connectivity and, depending on the model, wireless phone charging.
On the road, the tested Tiggo 7 proved itself a more than competent performer in both petrol and hybrid form.
On a challenging route around the twisting roads of south Worcestershire and into Herefordshire, it was put through its paces, demonstrating sharp handling for the type of vehicle and a decent turn of pace.
Both models are equipped with advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane assist systems, and 360-degree camera systems for comprehensive visibility.
Targeting the established brands in the UK, Chery is a big player with plenty still to come.
On the road 