Tiggo 8 Pro |
One bite of the Chery-pie, and you are assured to be teleported to a first-class travel experience, where affordable luxury is guaranteed to satiate your every desire.
Premium SUVs are generally associated with Japanese, Korean, American, or European manufacturers. However, the world is changing, and strong contenders in the market are vying for a piece of the pie. Noteworthy are the recent entrants from China, none more so than Chery Automobile Company. Last month, **Driven** had the pleasure of attending the launch of the highly anticipated Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, and we came away pleasantly surprised, realising that this SUV may very well revolutionise the local SUV market.
Sultry Asian Persuasion
“Elegant”, “Attractive”, “Poised”. These are the words that came to mind when I first set eyes on the Tiggo 8. With sharp, assertive lines that emphasise the contours of its substantial body, the exterior styling gives it a proud and dominant appearance. A large 3D grille dominates the front end with a star-studded effect that demands prolonged stares from onlookers. The grille is flanked by fully automatic matrix LED lights with dual daytime running signatures. A shoulder line links the headlights with the taillights, where the rear LED lights with dual fog lamps flank the tail, and a high mounted central brake light and bold CHERY lettering accentuate the liftgate. Chrome roof rails and a panoramic sunroof for the flagship Executive model are included as standard, as are dual-tone 18” alloys.
Fixated on Luxury and Refinement
“In planning for the South African introduction of the Tiggo 8 Pro, we used the analogy of first-class travel,” says Tony Liu, Executive Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa. “Once in first class, your every need is satisfied. There are no hidden costs, no surprise bills, and luxury is a given.”
On entering the cabin, you will find merit to this claim. The dash is a tech-fest, housing no less than three high-resolution screens. The first is a configurable 12.3” digital instrument cluster displaying infotainment and mobile phone information. The second screen stands proud, centred on the dash and serves as the car’s detailed infotainment unit. The 10.25” screen includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while also doubling as output for the reverse view and 360-degree camera array. A third 8” screen is mounted lower on the dash and serves as the climate control hub. The fully automatic climate control system houses an N95-grade air purification system. The Tiggo 8 also offers wireless phone charging, intelligent voice control, and a crisp eight-speaker Sony surround sound system.
The premium feel extends throughout the cabin, which is laid out with leather upholstery, elevated with black and brown trim and diamond quilting for the Executive model. A six-way adjustable driver seat comes standard on all trims, with the Executive adding four-way electric adjustment and lumbar support for the front passenger seat. The second-row seats also feature adjustability, a 60/40 split and a drop-down armrest. Together with a 12V charging port in the front, three USB ports affirm that Chery understands the needs of the “always-connected” generation. Ambient lighting is also standard, softly illuminating the cabin. A welcome addition is a third row, likely to be comfortable mostly for children. True to their word, Chery did not skimp on the amenities, making the Tiggo an aggressively compelling alternative to the otherwise popular household brands.
Both Tiggo 8 Pro models are equipped with a 1.6T GDI engine that delivers maximum power of 145 kW and 290 Nm of torque and is partnered with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Uncompromising Safety
Safety is imperative, and Chery undoubtedly understands that luxury alone is not enough to convince and convert new customers. The Tiggo 8 Pro comes with what Chery calls the “Guard Ring”, which comprises six airbags designed to be omnidirectional, offering optimal passenger occupancy protection. In addition, the car comes with Traction Control, Roll Stability Control, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
But, wait, there is more!
The Executive model includes additional noteworthy features, including an array of complex sensors that offer Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent High-beam Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Front Collision Warning, an emergency Brake Override System, and a Door Open Warning and Prevention system as standard.
The Tiggo 8 Pro also features auto-locking on drive, remote car locking, automated window closing, tyre pressure monitoring, hill assist and downhill descent control, and an anti-theft alarm keyless entry with a push-button start, as standard.
Last Word
The Tiggo 8 Pro speaks for itself. More than just a pretty face, the premium interior belies a host of standard safety features, which tick all the right boxes. Add a comprehensive ten-year/1,000,000 km engine warranty, a five-year/150,000 km general warranty and a five-year comprehensive roadside assistance plan, and the concept of luxury on wheels gains new meaning. With a starting price of R496,000, coupled with reliable after-sales service, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro represents exceptional value for money. This is a bite of the Chery-pie you do not want to miss out on!
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © Chery South Africa
