The European SUV market is about to welcome a bold new competitor. The Chery Tiggo 7, a compact family SUV from China’s leading vehicle exporter, is preparing for its debut on the continent — and it’s coming in hot. With a sharp focus on value, technology, and electrified efficiency, the Tiggo 7 aims to challenge both mainstream favorites like the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai, as well as budget-oriented rivals such as the MG HS and the upcoming Dacia Bigster.
A Strategic Price Point
With a projected starting price of around €29,500 on the British market, the Tiggo 7 positions itself as a value-packed alternative to established names. This aggressive pricing could extend to EU markets, potentially shaking up the status quo in the highly competitive C-SUV segment.
Though Chery might not be a household name in Europe just yet, it’s no stranger to the global stage. The brand has been China’s top vehicle exporter for 22 consecutive years and has already gained traction across Europe through its sub-brands Omoda and Jaecoo. Now, the parent brand steps into the spotlight under its own name.
Dimensions and Drivetrains
Measuring 4.5 meters in length, the Tiggo 7 comfortably slots into the compact SUV category. Two powertrain options will be available:
- A 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 145 hp.
- A plug-in hybrid dubbed the “Super Hybrid”, which looks set to be the star of the lineup.
The PHEV system pairs a 1.5-liter turbo engine, electric motor, and an 18.3 kWh battery, delivering an electric-only range of up to 90 km and a combined range of 1,200 km. Acceleration from 0–100 km/h is achieved in 8.5 seconds, and CO₂ emissions are a mere 23 g/km — figures that should prove especially attractive to fleet and business buyers.
Charging is practical and quick: the battery can be replenished from 30 to 80% in just 20 minutes via fast charging, or even recharged on the go by the petrol engine. The driver can select from Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes to suit different conditions.
Trim Levels and Features
European buyers will have a choice between two trim levels: Aspire and Summit.
The entry-level Aspire trim already boasts a generous array of standard features, including:
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays for infotainment and instrumentation
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- LED headlights
- 540-degree camera system with underbody view
- Sony six-speaker audio
- Dual-zone climate control
- Adaptive cruise control
- Cooled wireless smartphone charging
Stepping up to the Summit trim enhances the premium feel with extras like:
- An eight-speaker Sony system
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Hands-free electric tailgate
- Ground lighting from door mirrors
Warranty and Future Plans
The Tiggo 7 comes with a seven-year/160,000 km warranty, with unlimited mileage for the first three years, and includes roadside assistance. The hybrid battery is separately covered for eight years, ensuring peace of mind for early adopters.
Looking ahead, Chery has confirmed plans to bring a larger, seven-seat SUV — the Tiggo 8 — to Europe as well. It will share the same plug-in hybrid system as the Tiggo 7 and target rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq and Kia Sorento. Pricing for the Tiggo 8 is yet to be announced.
Source: Chery International
