The Tiggo 7 Pro and the Move Toward All‑Wheel Drive in Russia
Chery’s best selling crossover continues to dominate the brand’s lineup and was the top Chinese vehicle in 2021. Now it is gearing up for four‑wheel drive, signaling an expansion of the model range in response to demand from Russian buyers. The first all‑wheel drive SUV in Chery’s Russian portfolio is seen as the elder sibling of the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, with industry sources noting plans to extend the 4×4 lineup beyond the 7 Pro family. While discussions are still in early stages, the move is fueled by interest from customers who want more capability from a compact crossover. (Source: Chinese Automobiles)
The possibility exists that a new variant could carry the Max designation, though official confirmation has not yet been issued. The timing for Russia remains uncertain, and it is known that certification processes in the country have not begun for this potential version.
In China, the model is marketed as the Tiggo 7 Plus, while in Russia it is generally referred to as the 7 Pro. This naming difference suggests that a four‑wheel drive option would arrive as part of a refreshed variant, with a rollout potentially pushed to 2023. The updated Tiggo 7 Pro, even in a front‑wheel drive configuration, is expected to appear sooner in Russia and form the basis for broader equipment options once certification and market alignment proceed.
On the Chinese market, the Tiggo 7 Plus already shares its powertrain family with the existing 7 Pro and 8 Pro models. The range includes turbocharged engines around 156 horsepower and a higher‑performing option near 197 horsepower. Transmission choices include a six‑speed manual or a CVT for the younger variants, while the newer engines generally pair with CVT transmissions. In China, front‑wheel drive is standard for the new model, but the vehicle rides on a platform shared with the Tiggo 8, which already offers a 4×4 version. This shared architecture makes a 4×4 version a logical and timely addition once market conditions and certification align in Russia.
- In Russia, sources indicate that a brand new crossover named Omoda 5 will be introduced by the end of next summer, according to reports from Behind the Wheel.
- Readers can find Behind the Wheel coverage on Odnoklassniki for more details.