Category: Chery Tiggo 9 Pro

Chery International unveiled its new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV, the Tiggo 9 PHEV, at the 18th Beijing Auto Show. The question on everyone’s lips since then has been – will the Chery Tiggo 9 become the new flagship model?

The Tiggo 9 certainly represents a significant step forward for the Chinese manufacturer, showcasing their commitment to delivering more intelligent, safer and eco-friendly vehicles. We take a look at the features of the new Tiggo 9 as well as where the new Chery will sit in the lineup.

Understanding PHEVs

A PHEV, or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, combines an electric motor with a conventional petrol engine. This dual-power system offers the flexibility of using electric power for short distances and petrol for longer trips, providing an efficient and versatile driving experience.

The Tiggo 9 PHEV exemplifies this technology, aiming to deliver performance and efficiency.

The Chery Tiggo 9 – A Step Above

In Chery’s lineup, the Tiggo 9 is positioned above the Tiggo 8 Pro and Pro Max. It’s significantly larger, measuring 90mm longer, 65mm wider, and 36mm higher than the Tiggo 8, with a wheelbase extended by 60mm to 2,770mm. This increase in size allows for a more spacious interior and a more commanding presence on the road.

The Tiggo 9 PHEV stands out with its sleek and modern design. It features narrow headlights and slimmer tail lights, giving it a sophisticated appearance. The 20-inch wheels add to its presence, while flush door handles contribute to a smooth, aerodynamic profile. Electrified variants sport a closed grille design, distinguishing them from their conventional counterparts.

The Tiggo 9 PHEV boasts an impressive powertrain. It has a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 175kW. Combined with the electric motor, the total system output reaches 230kW. This is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

Despite its size and power, the Tiggo 9 PHEV claims impressive efficiency. Chery reports a fuel consumption figure of 5.2L/100km. The plug-in hybrid system is reportedly capable of 100km of pure electric range. When fully charged and with its 70-litre fuel tank filled, Chery suggests a total range of up to 1,400km, addressing range anxiety concerns for long-distance travellers.

The Tiggo 9 PHEV’s interior showcases a premium feel with a minimalist dashboard and 15.6-inch HD infotainment screen. The cabin features blue and white leather upholstery and diamond-quilted seats with heating and cooling functions. The front passenger seat even includes a legrest for additional comfort on long journeys.

While specific details for the South African market are yet to be confirmed, it’s expected that the Tiggo 9 will come with a comprehensive array of semi-autonomous safety features, befitting its flagship status.

On-Road Performance

Hybrid System Refinement

Reports from the Chery test facility indicate that the Tiggo 9 PHEV demonstrates a highly refined driving experience. The transition from electric mode to petrol power is said to be smooth. The powertrain’s responsiveness has been praised, with the Tiggo 9 described as displaying no hesitation in its power delivery.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The steering of the Tiggo 9 is described as notably light, facilitating easy manoeuvring in urban environments. A tight turning circle is mentioned as a strong point, enhancing the SUV’s agility despite its size. During testing, the Tiggo 9 reportedly handled small obstacles competently, with the suspension absorbing imperfections without difficulty. No squeaks or rattles were reported from the cabin, suggesting good build quality.

Launch And Availability

The Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of 2024 or early 2025. Upon its arrival, it will take the top spot in Chery’s local lineup, representing the brand’s most premium offering in the market.

While exact pricing is yet to be confirmed, it will be interesting to see how Chery positions the Tiggo 9 in the South African market. With the current top-end Tiggo 8 Pro Max AWD priced at around R732,000, there’s speculation about whether Chery SA can position the entire Tiggo 9 range under the R1-million mark.

Based on initial reports, the Tiggo 9 PHEV appears to be a promising entry in the large SUV market, offering a blend of refinement, power, and potential efficiency. However, more comprehensive evaluations on various road types and over extended periods would be necessary to fully assess the vehicle’s capabilities and real-world performance. As Chery’s new flagship, the Tiggo 9 PHEV represents an important step for the brand in the premium SUV segment.

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