We care about nature

During a test drive through the Tazheran steppes near Lake Baikal, the team encountered a curious moment with a squirrel. An all-electric Tiggo 7 Pro approached silently, powered solely by its electric motors, and reached within ten meters without the rodent noticing. In electric-only mode, the Tiggo 7 Pro can travel up to 80 kilometers, a practical range for short commutes, kindergarten runs, or quick shopping trips without using fuel.

The key distinction of this new Tiggo model lies in its plug‑in hybrid technology. It blends the benefits of gasoline propulsion with electric drive, allowing the crossover to run entirely on gasoline, operate in a hybrid mix, or rely on electricity where available. The front axle is driven through a three‑speed gearbox paired with a robotic unit, creating a versatile drivetrain.

The hybrid system combines a 1.5‑liter turbocharged engine delivering 147 horsepower with two electric motors delivering a combined 88 horsepower and a strong battery pack. The system autonomously selects from nine operating modes to optimize efficiency in real time. In traffic, a single electric motor may be active, while highway overtakes may engage the gasoline engine and both electric motors in parallel. Overall, the powerplant outputs 235 horsepower and a maximum torque of 510 Newton meters.

The transition between gasoline and electric modes is so smooth that drivers rarely notice it. Improved sound insulation creates an impression of driving an electric car, and responsive throttle adds a second layer of refinement, especially on rough, stone-strewn dirt roads in open countryside.

Performance on pavement feels spirited: acceleration to 100 km/h happens in about 7.5 seconds, and at higher speeds the Tiggo 7 Pro shows agility with decisive overtaking and controlled lane changes, aided by its stability at speed.

Fuel economy remains competitive. The engine does not require premium fuel, with a recommendation to use AI-92. The combined cycle consumption is around 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers, which is roughly a liter better than a competing model on the market. The manufacturer claims a range of up to 1,000 kilometers on a full tank and a fully charged battery. The battery itself is a 19.3 kilowatt‑hour lithium‑ion pack mounted under the chassis and somewhat visible beneath the sill line.

When asked about dirt-road durability, Chery engineers emphasized battery protection within a robust casing. The Tiggo 7 Pro benefits from a stiff suspension that minimizes body roll, and the added weight of the battery helps with stability by shifting the center of gravity.

The charging port sits on the left front fender and follows the European Type 2 standard. An included adapter enables charging at home, with official claims that charging from a dedicated station can take about 2.5 hours and from a standard home outlet up to seven hours to reach full energy. Even after two hours of mixed driving, the battery was not depleted, thanks to the seamless interaction between the internal combustion engine and electric motors.

During deceleration, regenerative braking helps recharge the battery. The driver can select from three braking modes that influence deceleration strength when easing off the accelerator. In eco mode, the car can be driven with almost no brake pedal input, improving battery recharge efficiency and reducing brake wear over time.

What’s inside

Inside the Tiggo 7 Pro, the driver may notice a familiar layout with one notable difference: the digital dashboard displays a warning that perhaps needs further localization for certain markets. The interior remains close to the standard Tiggo 7, with an 8‑inch climate control display featuring touch controls alongside two temperature dials. Physical controls have not been completely discarded, which helps readability in bright sun, though glare on the screen can still be an issue in direct light.

The instrument cluster presents a curved dual‑screen setup offering a wide range of menus. The cabin design feels intuitive for first‑time users, with easy access to essential controls on the steering wheel and central console. The USB charging pad has been moved away from the wheel, located near the center armrest and laid out in a way that minimizes distraction during traffic jams.

The Tiggo 7 Pro is offered in a single configuration that includes LED headlights, a surround‑view camera system, hands‑free trunk opening, ventilated seats, and a panoramic roof. A spare wheel was not included in this configuration.

G8 updated

The pace of modernization among Chinese automakers continues to impress. The Tiggo 8 Pro joined the Russian market with a second‑generation update that arrived after testing in May. The redesigned model surfaced in November with notable changes for the front end and interior, while exterior tweaks remain subtle to those who closely follow Chery products.

Externally, fans will spot a new radiator grille with a bright badge, plus 19‑inch wheels and revised headlamps. Inside, the dual‑screen cockpit has a curved layout that makes it easier for the driver to read information from the display facing them. A head‑up display helps monitor speed without taking eyes off the road, and a 540° panoramic camera system adds enhanced visibility, including views under the car for rough road conditions. However, all‑wheel drive is not offered for the G8 in Russia, mirroring the G7 hybrid strategy and leaving a full off‑road modification out of the current plan.

Even with strong efficiency, hybrid crossovers are not typically inexpensive. The Tiggo 7 Pro Plug-in Hybrid starts at around 4 million rubles, and the Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid is priced about 1.2 million rubles higher. In the Russian market, the lineup remains narrow, with a few alternative hybrids such as the Skywell HT-i offering longer range estimates and a higher price tag. Additional hybrids and electric models from Chery are expected in 2024 under the planned Chery NEV brand, broadening the options for Canadian and U.S. customers who follow the brand closely.