Category: Chery Tiggo Cross
The Rise Of Intelligent Cars In South Africa
Posted by Group1 Chery on 10 Jul 2026
Why Smart Cars Are Changing The Way We Drive
There was a time when buying a new car came down to a familiar list of questions. How much power does it have? What’s the fuel consumption? How quickly does it get from 0 to 100km/h? For years, these were the numbers that shaped buying decisions.
Those things still matter, but they are no longer the full story.
Today, many South Africans shopping for a new vehicle are asking different questions. Does it have wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? What safety technology is included? Can the software be updated? Does it have adaptive cruise control or a 360-degree camera? How easy is the infotainment system to use every day?
That shift says a lot about where the market is heading. Modern vehicles are no longer defined only by what is under the bonnet. Software, connectivity and intelligent features are becoming a much bigger part of the ownership experience. In many cases, they are also becoming a major factor when choosing a vehicle.
For anyone researching smart cars in South Africa, this is one of the biggest changes shaping the market right now.
How Cars Became Computers On Wheels
Modern vehicles are packed with technology working in the background. Instead of relying only on mechanical systems, today’s cars use onboard computers and software to manage everything from infotainment and climate control to safety systems and fuel efficiency.
Most new vehicles have multiple electronic control units, often called ECUs. These small computers help control specific functions in the vehicle. One may manage engine performance, another braking systems and another the infotainment display. Together, they make it possible for the vehicle to monitor inputs, process data and respond more intelligently.
That is why modern cars can do far more than simply get you from A to B. They can alert you to hazards, help you stay in your lane, guide you into a parking bay and connect to your phone in seconds. In some cases, they can even receive software improvements after you have already bought the vehicle.
This is part of a broader move towards software-defined vehicles. In simple terms, that means the driving experience is increasingly shaped by technology and software, not just hardware and engineering.
What Buyers Mean By A Smart Car
When people talk about a smart car today, they are usually not referring to autonomous driving. Instead, they mean a vehicle with intelligent systems that improve convenience, safety and everyday usability.
These features can take many forms, but they usually fall into a few key areas.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, or ADAS, are some of the most important smart features in modern vehicles. These systems use cameras, sensors and software to help the driver stay aware of what is happening around the vehicle.
Depending on the model, ADAS features can include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keeping assistance
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Traffic sign recognition
- Forward collision warning
These systems are designed to assist the driver, not replace them. Their role is to make driving safer and less stressful by adding another layer of awareness.
That can make a real difference in everyday driving. Adaptive cruise control can be useful in stop-start traffic. Blind-spot monitoring can make lane changes easier on a busy motorway. Rear cross-traffic alert can help when reversing out of a parking bay at a shopping centre where visibility is limited.
Connected Infotainment
Infotainment has become one of the most visible signs of how much vehicles have changed. A modern cabin is often built around a touchscreen interface, digital displays and smartphone integration rather than a simple radio and a few buttons.
For buyers, that matters because they expect the same convenience from their car that they get from the rest of their tech. They want easy access to navigation, calls, music and apps without a complicated learning curve.
This is why features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become so important. They allow drivers to access maps, messages and playlists without plugging in a cable every time they get into the car. Voice control adds another layer of convenience by letting the driver adjust certain functions without taking their hands off the wheel for too long.
Why Smart Cars Are Changing The Way We Drive
Over-The-Air Updates
Another important development is the rise of over-the-air, or OTA, software updates.
Traditionally, if a vehicle needed a software fix or system improvement, the owner would need to visit a dealership. With OTA capability, certain updates can be delivered remotely, much like a smartphone update.
These updates may be used to improve system stability, fix bugs, improve security or refine existing features. In some cases, they can also enhance how a system works after the vehicle has already been sold.
Not every vehicle offers the same level of OTA support, and not every feature can be updated remotely. Even so, the principle is important because it changes how people think about car ownership. The vehicle is no longer a fixed product the day it leaves the showroom. It can continue to evolve.
Intelligent Safety Is Becoming More Important
Vehicle safety has always mattered, but modern technology is changing what safety looks like in practice.
Traditional safety equipment such as airbags, seatbelts and strong body structures remains essential. What has changed is the role of software in helping to prevent accidents before they happen.
A 360-degree camera can help you avoid clipping a curb or misjudging a tight parking space. Lane keeping assistance can help if you begin drifting out of your lane. Traffic sign recognition can help you stay aware of changing speed limits. Autonomous emergency braking may be able to reduce the severity of a collision if the driver does not react in time.
For many buyers, these features are no longer seen as nice extras. They are part of what makes a vehicle feel modern, safe and easier to live with.
Why Smart Cars Are Changing The Way We Drive
Why Technology Is Becoming A Bigger Buying Factor
For many South African buyers, the daily driving experience matters more than peak performance figures. Most family SUVs and crossovers spend their time on school runs, commutes, shopping trips and weekend travel rather than on a racetrack.
That is why buyers are placing more value on features such as:
- Easy smartphone integration
- User-friendly infotainment
- Parking cameras and sensors
- Driver assistance technology
- Voice controls
- Digital displays
- Future software support
These are the features that can make a vehicle easier to use every single day. A good infotainment system can make a commute less frustrating. A surround-view camera can take the stress out of parking. Adaptive cruise control can make long-distance travel more comfortable.
As a result, technology is becoming a much bigger part of how vehicles are evaluated. Buyers still care about fuel consumption, comfort and reliability, but they are also looking closely at how intelligent a vehicle feels once they are behind the wheel.
How Chery Fits Into This Shift
Chery is a good example of how this change is playing out in the real world. The brand’s newer SUV range places a strong emphasis on connected technology, digital displays and driver assistance features, showing just how important intelligent features have become in the modern buying journey.
Across the current Chery line-up, buyers can explore a range of SUVs that combine practicality with a more connected driving experience. Models such as the Chery Tiggo Cross, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro all reflect this broader shift towards smarter, more digitally focused vehicles.
Depending on the model and trim, Chery buyers may find features such as digital instrument displays, touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, voice control, camera systems and a growing suite of driver assistance technology.
These are the kinds of features that increasingly shape how buyers compare vehicles, especially in the family SUV space where convenience and safety matter just as much as performance.
Why Smart Cars Are Changing The Way We Drive
What Does The Future Look Like?
The move towards smarter vehicles is unlikely to slow down. Over the next few years, buyers can expect technology to become even more integrated into the ownership experience.
Voice assistants are likely to become more natural and useful. Navigation systems may become more predictive, using live traffic and driving habits to suggest better routes, and cars may get better at monitoring their own health and warning owners about maintenance issues before they become serious problems.
Personalisation is another area likely to grow. Future vehicles may do a better job of remembering individual driver preferences, from climate settings and seat position to favourite destinations and infotainment shortcuts.
Performance, comfort and reliability still matter. They always will. But they are no longer the only things worth comparing when shopping for a new vehicle. Software, connectivity and intelligent safety features are playing a much bigger role in how modern cars are designed and how buyers make decisions.
More Than What Is Under The Bonnet
So if you are comparing your next SUV, it is worth looking beyond horsepower figures and fuel claims. Pay attention to the technology too. Ask how the safety systems work, how intuitive the infotainment system is and whether the vehicle offers features that will genuinely make everyday driving easier.
Because in today’s market, the next big battle is not only happening under the bonnet. It is happening inside the software too.
The post The Rise Of Intelligent Cars In South Africa appeared first on Group1 Chery.
Chery Embraces SA Creativity With Bold New Collab
Posted by Group1 Chery on 14 Apr 2025
Chery Embraces SA Creativity With Bold New Collab
Something special is stirring in the world of Chery, and it’s got everything to do with homegrown talent, bold expression, and a fresh perspective on what it means to design for every kind of you.
The Chinese automaker, known for pushing boundaries and creating standout vehicles like the Tiggo range, has launched a brand-new initiative that’s got the whole team at Group1 Chery genuinely excited.
This isn’t just a design update. This is Chery stepping into a powerful space of artistic collaboration, beginning with a proudly South African artist who’s making waves far beyond the gallery walls.
Meet The Artist: Samurai Farai
Farai Engelbrecht, better known by his creative moniker Samurai Farai, is not your everyday artist. He’s a multi-hyphenate powerhouse: a painter, curator, gallerist and visual storyteller with a unique, Afrocentric approach that brings raw emotion and vibrant symbolism into everything he touches.
With Zimbabwean and Afrikaans roots, Farai’s work is layered, unapologetically expressive and deeply rooted in the idea of identity. His latest canvas? The all-new Chery Tiggo Cross.
The Tiggo Cross Gets A Bold New Look
At first glance, the Chery Tiggo Cross is a stand-out SUV, sporty, versatile, and designed for drivers who aren’t afraid to forge their own path. But now, it’s become something even more powerful: a literal moving artwork that celebrates individuality, diversity and South African identity.
For this first-ever Art Car Collaboration, Samurai Farai was given the creative freedom to hand-paint a Tiggo Cross. The result is nothing short of remarkable. Drenched in bold colours, layered with his signature symbolic language, and echoing the hues of our rainbow nation, the vehicle becomes a rolling celebration of Ubuntu. This is based on the notion that we are all connected through community, experience, and self-expression.
Built For Every Kind Of You
This collaboration isn’t just about cool visuals. It’s about storytelling. Chery’s goal with this project was to create a platform where the values of design, innovation and identity could meet in a tangible, impactful way. And in Farai, they found the perfect creative partner.His art speaks to the complexity of the human experience, the parts we show and the parts we hide. His invented symbolic language, which originated during his time at Michaelis, serves as a coded expression of emotion and thought, creating space for introspection and connection beyond words.
By bringing this into the automotive world, Chery is saying something bold: Our vehicles are not just tools for getting from A to B. They are extensions of who we are. And in the case of the Tiggo Cross, it’s a celebration of every version of you–past, present and still emerging.
Why This Collab Matters
There’s something deeply affirming about seeing a global brand champion South African art in this way. Without being loud or boastful, Chery is putting the spotlight on local creators who are reshaping culture from the inside out. It’s a move that feels thoughtful, authentic and incredibly timely.
At Group1 Chery, we’re thrilled to see the brand take such a creative leap – not just because the results look phenomenal (and trust us, they do) but because it signals a broader vision. One that values expression, community and innovation in equal measure.
Just The Beginning…
The most exciting part? This is only the first of many collaborations to come. Chery has hinted at more partnerships with South African artists, and if this debut is anything to go by, we’re in for something truly extraordinary.
Whether you’re an art lover, a proud supporter of local talent, or someone who just enjoys seeing the unexpected in everyday spaces, this initiative offers a powerful reminder of what’s possible when creativity meets the open road. Keep an eye on this space. There’s a new kind of journey taking shape, and it starts right here in Mzansi.
Stay In The Loop With Group1 Chery
We’ll be keeping you posted on upcoming Chery collaborations, local stories worth telling, and everything exciting happening in the world of Group1 Chery. Check back soon or sign up for more updates, and in the meantime, feel free to stop by one of our showrooms to see what individuality on four wheels really looks like.
The post Chery Embraces SA Creativity With Bold New Collab appeared first on Group1 Chery.
Chery Sets It Sights On SA With New Plug-In Hybrids
Posted by Group1 Chery on 13 Jan 2025
Tiggo-range-2025
2025 is set to be a massive year for new cars. South African motorists will be spoiled for choice, with exciting releases from long-standing favourites and the debut of promising new brands. Chery is no stranger to delivering value-packed vehicles, and its sustained local onslaught shows no signs of letting up. Building on its momentum, the Wuhu-based automaker is gearing up for an ambitious rollout of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), spanning its entire lineup (almost) from the very first quarter of the year.
Let’s look closer at what’s on the horizon for Chery in 2025.
Chery’s NEV Strategy for 2025
Chery’s strategy for 2025 centres around expanding its lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles, reflecting a broader industry trend towards cleaner, more efficient transportation that doesn’t compromise on luxury or performance. This move is part of Chery’s global push to become a leader in the NEV market, building on its success in China where it has seen substantial growth in hybrid and electric vehicle sales.
Key Models For The South African Market
Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV
The Tiggo 7 Pro will receive its second and most extensive facelift to date, including a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. This model combines a 1.5 T-GDI engine with dual electric motors and a 19.27-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, producing 265 kW and offering an all-electric range of around 80 km.
Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV
The facelifted Tiggo 8 Pro will also introduce a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, featuring the same dual electric motors and battery pack as the Tiggo 7 Pro but with a reduced power output of 240 kW.
Tiggo Cross Hybrid
Building on the success of the Tiggo 4 Pro, Chery will introduce a hybrid version of the Tiggo Cross in the 2nd quarter of 2025, further expanding its compact SUV offerings in the local market.
Chery Tiggo 9 Pro
Although initially expected earlier, the Tiggo 9 Pro will now launch in the third quarter of 2025. The Tiggo 9 will be Chery’s flagship model in South Africa, offering both petrol and plug-in hybrid options. The hybrid version will feature a sophisticated powertrain combining a 2.0 T-GDI engine with plug-in hybrid technology, providing a reported 265 kW.
Beyond the Tiggo range, Chery is set to launch other notable models under the auspices of its OMODA and JAECOO (O&J) sub-brands. The OMODA C9, a plug-in hybrid version is set to join the line-up. Presently, the C9 PHEV combines a 1.5l four-cylinder petrol engine with up to three electric motors. A plug-in hybrid version of the popular JAECOO J7 is in the works as well. The Jaecoo J6, an all-electric crossover with light off-roading capabilities, is also set to tap into South Africa’s growing EV market.
We can only assume that more details of the SUVs will be announced closer to their expected launch dates throughout the year.
To stay updated on the latest developments from Chery and explore the exciting world of new energy vehicles, follow Group 1 Chery’s pages on Facebook or check out our blog for the latest news and insights.
The post Chery Sets It Sights On SA With New Plug-In Hybrids appeared first on Group1 Chery.
New Contender In The Chery Line-Up – Where Does The Tiggo Cross Fit In?
Posted by Group1 Chery on 08 Jan 2025
Where Does The Tiggo Cross Fit Into Chery’s SUV Line-Up?
Chery’s latest crossover, the Chery Tiggo Cross, has recently made its debut in South Africa, slotting in between the Tiggo 4 Pro and the larger Tiggo 7 Pro. Some would say the Chery Tiggo Cross is a range-topping version of the Tiggo 4. What’s interesting right off the bat is that the Tiggo Cross is breaking away from the usual naming convention that Chery has used for its Tiggo lineup. In this blog, we explore where the Tiggo Cross fits within Chery’s SUV lineup, highlighting its features and how it compares to its siblings..
Where Does The Tiggo Cross Fit?
Chery has had a winner with the Tiggo 4, so the Tiggo Cross, a more technically advanced and stylish model, is sure to capture attention as well. The Tiggo Cross is designed to appeal to style-conscious young professionals and urban drivers but also offers enough space for family adventures. At 4,350mm, it’s an attractive option for consumers who want a bit more space without committing to a full-sized SUV.
Performance and Features
The Tiggo Cross, Tiggo 4 Pro, and the base Tiggo 7 Pro share the same engine specifications, featuring a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that produces 108 kW of power and 210 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
The Tiggo Cross stands out with its modern design elements and enhanced interior features compared to its older sibling. It is easily distinguishable from the rest by its prominent gloss black grille featuring a diamond-pattern mesh, complemented by triple-element LED headlamps. Black wing-like elements extend from the grille towards the bumper, framed by vertical daytime running light clusters on each side.
Similar to the larger Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, the new Tiggo Cross boasts a spacious cabin with advanced technology, such as dual 10.25-inch screens (standard) and various driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, and lane departure warning, available on the higher-spec Elite trim. Only two trims are available.
Indeed, the Tiggo Cross’s competitive pricing, combined with its robust tech, safety specifications, and stylish design elements, positions it well within Chery’s expanding portfolio in South Africa.
Like its siblings, the Tiggo Cross comes with Chery’s industry-leading 10-year/1-million-kilometre engine warranty, a comprehensive 5-year/150,000-kilometre vehicle warranty, and roadside assistance for a full five years.
Comparative Overview Of Chery SUVs
To better understand the Tiggo Cross’s position, let’s compare it with other Tiggo models based on key specifications and features*.
| Feature/Model | Tiggo 4 Pro | Tiggo Cross | Tiggo 7 Pro | Tiggo 7 Pro Max | Tiggo 8 Pro | Tiggo 8 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol | 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol | 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol | 1.6-litre TGDI turbocharged | 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol | 2.0-litre TGDI turbocharged |
| Transmission | MT, CVT, 6-speed DCT | 6-speed DCT | 9-speed CVT | 7-speed DCT | 7-speed DCT | 7-speed DCT |
| Power | 83 kW, 103 kW | 108 kW | 108 kW | 145 kW | 145 kW | 187 kW |
| Torque | 138 Nm, 210 Nm | 210 Nm | 210 Nm | 290 Nm | 290 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5L/100km, 9.3L/100km, 6.8L/100km | 7.0L/100km | 6.8L/100km | 7.0L/100km | 7.8L/100km | 7.6L/100km |
| Price | R 269,900 | R 399,900 | R 399,900 | R 469,900 | R 469,900 | R 637,900 |
For those considering a value-for-money compact SUV that offers a balance of size, performance, and modern features, the Chery Tiggo Cross is certainly worth exploring. For the latest news and insights on Chery vehicles, follow our Group1 Chery blog or connect with us on Facebook.
*Pricing and specs correct at the time of writing.
The post New Contender In The Chery Line-Up – Where Does The Tiggo Cross Fit In? appeared first on Group1 Chery.
It’s True! The NEW Chery Tiggo Cross Is Bound For SA Shores
Posted by Group1 Chery on 26 Sep 2024
New Chery Tiggo Cross Set To Arrive In RSA By Late 2024!
Exciting news for South African drivers! The all-new Chery Tiggo Cross is set to land on our shores by late 2024, to make waves in the highly competitive compact SUV market. After a thrilling debut at the 2024 Festival of Motoring held in Gauteng, this bold and stylish newcomer has certainly captured attention. As a Group1 Chery dealer, we’re not just excited – we’re thrilled to see this innovative machine hit the road.
Why The Chery Tiggo Cross Matters
The Chery Tiggo Cross isn’t just another SUV. It’s a bold statement of what the future of compact SUVs could be. Slotting in between the already beloved Tiggo 4 Pro and the standout Tiggo 7 Pro, the Tiggo Cross promises to deliver something fresh, innovative, and ready to take on the likes of the Haval Jolion. For the South African market, where we value a good combination of style, performance, and practicality, the Tiggo Cross seems poised to be a major contender.
What’s particularly impressive is the way Chery is positioning itself in the market. With a sales record that speaks for itself (over 1,500 units sold monthly), this brand knows what it takes to capture attention. Now, with the Tiggo Cross, they’re doubling down on that winning formula.
A Design That Stands Out
First impressions are everything, and the Chery Tiggo Cross knows how to make an entrance. Its design is sleek and modern, with a diamond-patterned grille that gives the front end an assertive stance. The slim LED headlights add a sharp, confident look that makes the Tiggo Cross instantly recognizable on the road. And let’s not forget the striking rear design. The tail lamp stretches across the tailgate, offering a visually striking light signature — especially at night.
New Chery Tiggo Cross Set To Arrive In RSA By Late 2024!
When you’re driving through the bustling streets of Johannesburg, the Tiggo Cross will undoubtedly turn heads. It’s the kind of SUV that makes an impression whether you’re cruising down the N1 or exploring the winding roads of Cape Town’s scenic coastlines.
Inside The Tiggo Cross
Stepping inside, you’re greeted with a cabin that blends modern aesthetics with user-friendly functionality. It’s clear that Chery has paid close attention to what today’s drivers want: comfort, convenience, and cutting-edge technology. The 10.5-inch infotainment system is just the start, providing access to a wealth of features. The newly designed dashboard and seats give the interior a sophisticated feel, while the 50-watt wireless smartphone charger ensures you’re always powered up.
Safety is also a priority. With seven airbags and an improved voice recognition system (Hello Chery!), this SUV is as smart as it is safe. The spacious layout ensures that whether you’re heading to the Drakensberg for a weekend getaway or simply running errands in Durban, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the ride.
Performance That Impresses
Chery’s innovative approach extends under the hood. Powered by a 1.5 T-GDI engine, the Tiggo Cross delivers 108 kW of power and a strong 230 Nm of torque. But that’s not all — the vehicle is equipped with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering smoother, more efficient shifts. This is a marked improvement over the outgoing CVT and seven-speed DCT options, ensuring that the Tiggo Cross isn’t just about style — it’s built for performance too.
New Chery Tiggo Cross Set To Arrive In RSA By Late 2024!
For South African drivers who appreciate a responsive ride, this SUV won’t disappoint. Whether you’re navigating the stop-and-go traffic of Pretoria or taking a scenic drive through the Blyde River Canyon, the Tiggo Cross offers a balanced and dynamic driving experience.
What We Know So Far — And What’s To Come
While full details on specs and pricing will only be revealed closer to the official launch in November 2024, we’re confident that the Tiggo Cross will offer incredible value. Backed by Chery’s industry-leading warranties (a 10-year/1-million-kilometre engine warranty, a 5-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, and 5 years of roadside assistance), it’s clear that this SUV is built to go the distance.
New Chery Tiggo Cross Set To Arrive In RSA By Late 2024!
Chery’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from the innovative technology packed into the Tiggo Cross to its striking design. It’s no wonder we’re so excited for this model to hit South African roads.
Get Ready For The Future With Group1 Chery
The countdown to the Tiggo Cross launch is officially on, and here at Group1 Chery, we can’t wait to share this incredible vehicle with our customers. Whether you’re a longtime Chery fan or new to the brand, the Tiggo Cross is sure to impress with its blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
Be sure to stay tuned for more updates, including detailed specifications and pricing. Follow Group1 Chery’s Facebook page to get the latest news, sneak peeks, and insights as we gear up for the arrival of the all-new Chery Tiggo Cross. You won’t want to miss out!
The post It’s True! The NEW Chery Tiggo Cross Is Bound For SA Shores appeared first on Group1 Chery.