What can UK drivers expect from Chery’s arrival?
Chery, a major Chinese automaker, is making a bold entrance into the UK market with two new SUVs: the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. If you’ve been watching the steady influx of Chinese brands like BYD and Jaecoo, you’ll know this isn’t just another launch—it’s a sign of how quickly the automotive landscape is shifting. Chery’s move follows hot on the heels of Geely’s UK debut and comes at a time when Chinese brands are outpacing some long-established names in registrations. For example, Jaecoo has already sold over 8,000 cars in the UK this year, surpassing Fiat and Jeep, and closing in on Suzuki. BYD, another recent arrival, has registered nearly 20,000 vehicles, outstripping Mazda, Honda, and Seat. The message is clear: Chinese brands are no longer fringe players—they’re shaking up the mainstream.
How do the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 stack up against competitors?
Let’s break down what these two SUVs bring to the table. The Tiggo 7 is a mid-sized crossover, positioned to take on the likes of the Dacia Bigster, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan. With dimensions of 4.51 meters in length, 1.86 meters in width, and 1.69 meters in height, it fits squarely into the family SUV segment. In Australia, the Tiggo 7 is available with both pure-petrol and plug-in hybrid options, delivering 184bhp and 201bhp, respectively. Pricing starts at $29,990 AUD (about £14,390), though UK buyers should expect a higher sticker price due to shipping and taxes. Even so, it’s likely to undercut many rivals, potentially making it one of the most affordable choices in its class—especially compared to the £25,515 Dacia Bigster.
The Tiggo 8, meanwhile, is a larger, seven-seat SUV stretching to 4.72 meters, putting it up against European heavyweights like the Volkswagen Tayron and Peugeot 5008. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (241bhp, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox) or a 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid. While the hybrid’s total output hasn’t been officially disclosed, the petrol variant’s numbers suggest it won’t be lacking in power. Australian pricing starts at $45,990 AUD (about £22,000), but again, expect a UK premium. For context, the Omoda 9—a sibling model with a more powerful dual-motor PHEV setup—starts at £44,990 in the UK.
Why are Chinese car brands gaining so much ground in the UK?
It’s not just about price, though affordability is a big draw. Chinese brands are leveraging rapid product development, modern design, and a willingness to offer tech features that rival or even surpass what’s available from European and Japanese competitors. Take Jaecoo’s success: in less than a year, it’s outsold several legacy brands. BYD’s electric vehicles have found a strong following among buyers seeking value and innovation. The UK’s openness to new brands, coupled with a growing appetite for electrified vehicles, has created fertile ground for these newcomers.
Chery’s strategy is to cover all the bases. With Omoda and Jaecoo already on sale, and value-focused Lepas and off-road-oriented iCaur (iCar in China) on the way, the company is building a multi-brand portfolio to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Chery is also collaborating with JLR to revive the Freelander name, using its T1X platform as the foundation for the reborn model. This kind of partnership signals that Chinese manufacturers aren’t just exporting cars—they’re embedding themselves in the fabric of the UK industry.
What should buyers look out for when considering a Chery SUV?
If you’re in the market for a new SUV, Chery’s upcoming models are worth a close look. The Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 promise competitive pricing, strong equipment levels, and the flexibility of both petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains. For families, the seven-seat Tiggo 8 could be a game-changer, especially if it undercuts established rivals on price without skimping on features. However, it’s wise to keep an eye on official UK specs and pricing, as these can shift once local taxes, shipping, and market adjustments are factored in.
It’s also worth noting that Chery hasn’t officially confirmed which model will launch first, but the unveiling is set for the Goodwood Festival of Speed—an event that’s become a key stage for new car debuts in the UK. Early adopters may benefit from introductory offers, but as with any new brand, it pays to research warranty coverage, dealer support, and long-term reliability. Recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that new entrants are often quick to adapt to local demands, but aftersales service can vary as networks are established.
How might Chery’s launch affect the UK car market?
Chery’s arrival isn’t happening in a vacuum. The UK market is more competitive than ever, with buyers demanding better value, lower running costs, and more advanced technology. Established brands are being forced to respond, either by sharpening their own offerings or risk losing ground to these agile newcomers. The influx of Chinese brands is also accelerating the shift toward electrification and hybridization, as these companies often prioritize plug-in and electric models in their lineups.
For consumers, this means more choice and, potentially, better deals. For the industry, it’s a wake-up call. Legacy brands can’t afford to rest on their laurels, and the pace of innovation is only going to increase. The real winners? UK drivers who are open to exploring new options and willing to look beyond the badge.
The big takeaway? Navigating the changing car market isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—maybe test drive a brand you hadn’t considered—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.