Four wheel drive
In Russia, drivers have grown used to crossovers that do not always come with four‑wheel drive. That used to surprise only many Chinese brands. But the rise of budget pseudo-SUVs has removed the 4×4 badge from some segments entirely. Chery faces the opposite trend. As its reputation grows, so do its vehicles, and they now inhabit classes where four‑wheel drive is practically expected. The Tiggo 8 Pro Max sits squarely in this fold, offering a typical crossover layout. Among its driver aids, there is a single assist that climbs from the hills. Different drive modes exist for asphalt and off‑road, though the practical differences are hard to notice. The vehicle maintains a respectable ground clearance of 185 mm as claimed by the manufacturer. It omits factory security, meaning a protective underbody option must be added. A thin plastic guard beneath the front bumper conceals a low‑hanging oil filter that should be kept clear of damage. The Tiggo 8 Pro Max does not enjoy tilting diagonally in its pure form; after being swung and hooked to the third wheel, it can be persuaded to move. A strong gearbox odor is noticeable when it slips.
Powerful engine
The Tiggo 8 lineup presents a clear hierarchy. The base model is powered by a 1.5‑liter engine delivering 147 horsepower. The Pro version increases displacement to 1.6 liters, yielding 186 hp. The Pro Max version uses a 2.0‑liter turbocharged unit producing 197 hp. This is the Exeed VX engine, which develops 249 hp in its own model; for Chery it is tuned differently. Unofficial reports suggest the engine control module for the Tiggo may be reflashed to re‑enable the higher power output. The Pro Max delivers a composed drive. The engine feels lively, and the torque converter or automated transmission works smoothly, a reasonable expectation for a Chinese brand. Official acceleration figures indicate a claim of 8.5 seconds to 100 km/h, while testing shows the crossover achieving 8.4 seconds. Top speed is officially listed at 195 km/h, but GPS readings show it easily surpassing 200 km/h.
Comfortable seats
Designers of the all‑wheel‑drive Tiggo 8 model extended the seat cushions in the front, significantly improving comfort. Ventilation and heating are included, though both systems currently serve the seat cushions; the plan is to add functionality to the backs in a future update. The headrests in the front and on the outer seats of the second row feature adjustable lateral support, a small feature with a big impact on long drives. Those seats are among the best within the Chinese SUV segment and contribute to a more relaxed journey.
What else?
The Tiggo 8 Pro Max adds more than just propulsion. It offers low‑beam headlights with a dynamic rotation at highway speeds, a digital instrument cluster paired with dual screens similar to those found in higher‑end Exeed models, and a substantial warranty of seven years or 200,000 kilometers. Yet it remains the most expensive Chery in Russia, with a price range of 3.9–4.2 million rubles. The model’s premium status is acknowledged by its comfort, tech, and refinement, although some may question the higher price in the lineup.
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