There aren't many seven-seater SUVs with a starting price of R496 900 that can offer what the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro can. In our reviews of the Tiggo Pro 1.6TGDI 290T Executive, and the Tiggo 8 Pro 290T Distinction, as well as our more recent review of the Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0TGDI 390T Executive, this is evident. Also read our launch report on the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro
We've also compared the Tiggo 8 Pro to the VW Tiguan and Haval H6 here. But let's get to the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro's suitability for long drives.
Is the Chery Tiggo 8 comfortable?
Yes, very! All the variants of the Chery Tiggo have upmarket faux leather interiors with comfortable seating. All models have electric seat adjustment with seat memory while Executive and Distinction models have lumbar adjustment too. These two models also offer electric seat adjustment for the front passenger. There is a variety of comfort and convenience features on board - check out our quick video review here.
Here is the current lineup of Chery Tiggo 8 Pro models:
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro 1.6TGDI 290T Distinction: R496 900
Chery Tiggo 9 Pro 1.6TGDI 290T Executive: R574 900
Chery Tiggo 9 Pro 2.0TGDI 390T Executive: R629 900
Is there enough space on board?
The Tiggo 8 is a seven seater, but what sets it apart is that the two rearmost seats offer enough space even for adults, thanks to the central pews that can slide forwards and backwards. The individual backrests can recline and the rearmost passengers benefit from a separate airconditioning system (Executive trim). There are an abundance of storage cubbies on board.
Does the Tiggo 8 Pro offer enough space for luggage?
Yes, the boot is huge (892 litres) when the rearmost row is stowed, ie. in five-seater mode. If all seats are upright, there are only 193 litres left, so if all seven seats are in use on long journeys, you may have to consider a trailer, but if you're a family of four or five maximum, there is room in the boot for camping equipment!
What's fuel economy like?
Pretty good for a car as large and powerful as the Tiggo 8 Pro. Around 10 litres per 100 km is the average rate for mixed driving in the 1.6TGDI, but this may decrease if you drive it on the open road and if your right foot is not too heavy. Expect slightly higher usage in the 2.0TGDI.
Is there enough power available to overtake slow-moving trucks?
Yes. The more powerful 2.0TGDI will obviously be quicker than the 1.6TGDI (145 kW/290 Nm) models, but the smaller engine is no slouch. 0-100 km/h is reached in 8.9 seconds while the 2.0TGDI (187 kW and 390 Nm) model does the same sprint in 7.3 seconds.
Is the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro safe?
Yes. Standard safety kit in all models comprise 6 airbags, a 360-degree camera system, rear parking sensors, stability control, emergency brake assist, rear ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a 5-star C-NCAP crash test rating.
Executive trim adds a host of extra safety features. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, front collision warning, rear collision alert (which flashes the hazard lights when a vehicle approaches too quickly from behind), traffic sign recognition, and intelligent high-beam control are among the premium safety features for which you won’t pay extra in the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Executive. - Martin Pretorius
Is there roadside assistance if something should go wrong?
Yes, roadside assistance is part of the deal, according to the Chery website, and the AA will take care of the problem, but it's important to read all the fine print:
This Roadside Assist service is for the warranty period of the Chery vehicle, from date of first vehicle registration. Chery International have entered into an agreement with AA Roadside Assist, to offer the following benefits that will be paid for by Chery International unless otherwise stated. This service is nationwide and is available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week / 365 days a year.
Services offered include,
- Flat batteries – jumpstart or replacement of batteries.
- Flat tyre assistance.
- Vehicles running out of fuel (maximum of 10 Liters) excluding instances where this occurs as a result of faulty fuel gauge, will not be covered under this agreement. The cost thereof will be for the customer’s account.
- Locksmith Assistance will be covered on all Chery vehicles.
- In the event of a breakdown of the covered Chery vehicle, the AA will arrange for the towing of the Chery vehicle to the nearest approved Chery dealer.
Should you, request that the Chery vehicle is towed to another destination than the closest approved Chery dealer, the difference or total cost will be for your account.
No provision is made for the repatriation of a Chery vehicle in the event of a breakdown.AA - 24 Hour Service Tel: 086 150 5555
View specs and the latest pricing for all 3 models on the Chery SA website here
Verdict
The Tiggo 8 Pro is a great car for road-trips, so if you're keen to buy one, why don't you get rid of your old car easily with our Instant Offer tool here, before searching AutoTrader for used Chery Tiggo 8 Pro models here, and for new Tiggo 8 Pro models here?
