What makes the Chery Tiggo 7 stand out among affordable SUVs?
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the SUV market, you’ve probably noticed the Chery Tiggo 7 popping up in conversations about value-packed crossovers. Priced from £24,995, the Tiggo 7 is Chery’s answer to the likes of the Dacia Bigster, but with a few tricks up its sleeve. For starters, buyers can choose between a traditional turbocharged petrol engine and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version—a rare offering at this price point.
The petrol model features a 1.6-litre turbo engine delivering 145bhp and 203lb ft of torque, which translates to a 0-62mph sprint in 9.4 seconds. Not bad for a family SUV that won’t break the bank. But it’s the PHEV that really grabs attention: a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with two electric motors (one on each axle), producing a combined 201bhp and 269lb ft. That means not only a quicker 0-62mph time of 8.5 seconds, but also the ability to drive up to 56 miles on electric power alone. For many commuters, that’s enough to handle the daily grind without burning a drop of petrol.
How does the plug-in hybrid Tiggo 7 compare for company car drivers?
Company car drivers are always on the lookout for models that keep tax bills in check. The Tiggo 7 PHEV’s 23g/km CO2 emissions put it firmly in the 9% benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax band for 2025-2026. That’s a big deal—especially when you consider the average BIK rate for SUVs in this segment is often double or even triple that figure. The 18.3kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, supplied by industry heavyweight CATL, underpins the PHEV’s impressive electric-only range. For context, most rivals in this price bracket struggle to offer more than 30-40 miles of EV range, if they offer a plug-in option at all.
What features and tech can buyers expect from the Tiggo 7?
Chery hasn’t skimped on equipment, even at the entry-level Aspire trim. Synthetic-leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and a six-speaker Sony sound system come as standard. Step up to the Summit trim, and you’ll find ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, hands-free boot opening, and an upgraded eight-speaker audio system.
Both trims feature twin 12.3-inch displays—one for the driver’s instruments and another for infotainment. This dual-screen setup is a hallmark of more premium brands, so seeing it here is a pleasant surprise. It’s clear Chery is aiming to punch above its weight in terms of perceived quality and tech.
How does the Tiggo 7 stack up against rivals in terms of warranty and aftersales?
Peace of mind matters, especially when trying a new brand. Chery backs the Tiggo 7 with a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty—matching or exceeding what’s offered by established players like Kia and Hyundai. This long warranty is a strong signal that Chery is confident in its engineering, and it gives buyers extra reassurance as the brand establishes itself in the UK.
What about the Tiggo 8 and Chery’s broader UK ambitions?
The Tiggo 8, a seven-seat sibling to the Tiggo 7, will also land in the UK with the same powertrain options. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but expect it to follow the same value-driven approach. Chery’s UK strategy is ambitious: the brand is rolling out five different marques, including Omoda, Jaecoo, Lepas (focused on value), and iCaur (off-road oriented, known as iCar in China). Chery is also collaborating with JLR to revive the Freelander nameplate, signaling a serious long-term commitment to the UK market.
How does Chery’s approach reflect changing trends in the UK car market?
Chery’s rapid expansion taps into a growing appetite for affordable electrified vehicles and tech-rich interiors. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), plug-in hybrid sales in the UK grew by over 50% year-on-year in 2023, and buyers are increasingly prioritizing value and warranty coverage. Chery’s move to offer both petrol and PHEV options at accessible prices, along with a robust warranty, directly addresses these trends.
The big takeaway? Choosing a new SUV like the Chery Tiggo 7 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether it’s switching to a plug-in hybrid for lower running costs or opting for a tech-packed trim, the Tiggo 7 makes it easier to get more from your next car without stretching your budget.