Exciting new Chery models destined for local soil

A recent trip to the Chery head office in Wuhu, China, allowed us to get up close and personal with a few of the new Chery models we can expect to see in the coming months. This brief encounter with some of the models gives us insight into what the local Chery portfolio will look like next year, with the promise to cater to nearly all tastes and preferences.

Related: Chery's new double cab - what you need to know

The Chery brand has cemented a position in the local market and sells nearly 1000 units of the Tiggo 4 Pro each month. In September 2024, they sold 1614 units in total, which appears to increase each month. It would not be amiss to say they're on an upward trajectory locally.

This success has earned favour with Chery International, and the local arm of Chery has more sway in speculating vehicles developed for our local market. This bodes well for local consumers, as you can expect more of what you want and less of what you don't from the Chery brand, with your initial concerns being addressed simultaneously.

New Chery Models for 2025

South Africa can expect to see no fewer than 4 new versions of current lines, one facelift, and one completely new model in the next 12 months. You can expect various powertrain variations and new hybrid options of your favourite models. Here's what lies in store for us:

Tiggo 4 Cross

Launching locally at the end of the week, the Chery Tiggo 4 Cross is the new Tiggo 4 in all other markets. Chery South Africa is continuing the existing Tiggo 4 Pro alongside the new Tiggo 4 and naming the new one the Cross. This allows them to offer more value for customers looking to get into a new crossover.

The Tiggo 4 Cross was first seen at the recent Festival of Motoring and launched with a 1.5-litre engine paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variant will join us in the second quarter of 2025. This compact crossover is bound to be just as popular as the current model.

Tiggo 7 Pro

The current middle child of the local Chery lineup is the Tiggo 7, and while this one hasn't been on sale locally for too long now, we can expect to see the new version early next year. Expect it to launch with the turbocharged 1.6-litre engine at first, with the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle arriving before the middle of the year. The PHEV will most likely be the first PHEV from Chery in South Africa.

A 1.5-litre, turbocharged variant is also in the making, and we should see this extension to the lineup before 2025 is done. The sporty and tech-laden interior combined with the sleek, new exterior styling promises to win favour with the local audience. 

Tiggo 8 Pro

A lot is happening with the Tiggo 8 Pro. Before the year is out, we can expect a facelifted version to launch locally, with the striking and luxurious new Tiggo 8 Pro following in quarter 2 of 2025. The range will start with the 1.6-litre turbocharged front-wheel drive derivative and be joined by the 2.0-litre turbocharged all-wheel drive variant (most likely the Tiggo 8 Pro Max) and the PHEV version shortly thereafter.

With its large grille and unique front bumper design, this SUV features retractable door handles and an interior with a premium quality feel. Dual wireless charging docks and various complementary materials and textures complement the large central infotainment screen.

Tiggo 9 Pro

A brand new model for the local Chery lineup is the new flagship Tiggo 9 Pro. This large, premium SUV focuses on tech and comfort, and while our test drive of this variant was brief, the power delivery was impressive, even if the controls lacked a little feel. Some of our colleagues also enjoyed the karaoke function inside the Tiggo 9! With three rows, the Tiggo 9 will comfortably seat 7 adults and is instantly recognisable with its dominant diamond-motif front grille.

We anticipate the powertrains to consist of a 2.0-litre engine with an 8-speed torque-convertor auto and a 1.5-litre turbocharged hybrid unit.