Chery Malaysia Hits 30,000 Sales Driving EV Growth

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Chery Tiggo PHEV Travels 1200km on One Tank

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Estimated reading time: 8 minutes


Key Takeaways

  • The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 7 PHEV successfully completed a demanding 1,200km journey across Peninsular Malaysia on a single tank of fuel, demonstrating exceptional range and fuel efficiency.
  • Built on the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) platform, these PHEV SUVs offer a formidable combination of a 1.5L TGDi engine and an 18.3 kWh LFP battery, providing an EV mode range of ~90km.
  • Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) significantly enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, especially on long hauls and in varied road conditions.
  • The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV stands out with its premium, spacious 7-seater cabin, intuitive infotainment, and comfortable suspension, making it an ideal family SUV for extended journeys.
  • Practical fast-charging capabilities (30-80% in 19 mins via DC 40kW) and a seamless transition between electric and petrol power ensure real-world usability and convenience for Malaysian drivers.

Table of Contents


Beyond the Trend: A 1,200km PHEV Marathon Challenge

Could a single tank of fuel truly power an SUV across nearly half of Peninsular Malaysia? In an era where rising fuel costs and environmental concerns dominate our commutes, the allure of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) is undeniable. But are they truly practical for both daily drives and epic road trips? We put this to the ultimate test with Chery Malaysia's family-favorite PHEV SUVs, the Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV and Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV, on an astounding 1,200km journey. Prepare to Discover how Chery Tiggo 8 & 7 PHEVs achieve an incredible 1200km range on one full tank. Read our full test drive review for efficiency insights! This isn't just about reducing your carbon footprint; it's about practical, long-distance mobility without range anxiety. Our comprehensive review delves into how these impressive hybrid SUVs performed under diverse Malaysian driving conditions, from bustling city traffic to winding mountain roads and sprawling highways, showcasing their technology, comfort, and undeniable practicality.


Our Epic 1,200km Cross-Peninsula Test Drive Itinerary

To truly challenge the Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 7 PHEV, we devised an ambitious three-day route spanning nearly half of Peninsular Malaysia. This wasn't just a joyride; it was a rigorous examination of their capabilities across varied terrains and climates, pushing their hybrid systems, ADAS features, and cabin comfort to the limit.

The Grand Itinerary: Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth and Back

Our journey commenced from Kuala Lumpur, winding through:

  • Day One: Bamboo Hills (KL) → R&R Temerloh → Kemaman Kopitiam Kuantan → R&R Paka → Hotel Raia, Kuala Terengganu
  • Day Two: Hotel Raia → BHP → Belum Rainforest Resort (lunch) → Petron Kuala Ketil → Crowned Hotel, Butterworth
  • Day Three: Crowned Hotel Butterworth → Red Brick Cafe Ipoh → BHP Tapah → Bamboo Hills, Kuala Lumpur

This meticulously planned route included long stretches of highways, straight federal roads, challenging mountain passes with sharp turns, and congested urban traffic. It provided the perfect crucible to assess how the seamless integration of petrol engine and electric motor supports modern driving demands. The core challenge? To complete the entire 1,200km journey without refueling or recharging, with the fuel tank sealed – a true test of their advertised maximum range.


Unprecedented Range & Fuel Efficiency: The Power of Hybrid Synergy

The Chery Tiggo PHEV models are built upon the advanced Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) platform, a sophisticated architecture designed for optimal performance and efficiency. At its heart lies a potent 1.5L TGDi turbocharged direct-injection engine, paired with an efficient Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and an 18.3 kWh LFP battery. This formidable combination isn't just about raw power; it's about intelligent energy management.

Hybrid Performance in Action

  • Exceptional Overall Range: The integrated system delivers an impressive total driving range of up to 1,200km on a full tank and charge, under effective driving control.
  • Pure EV Mode: With an EV mode capability of approximately 90km, the Tiggo PHEVs shine in urban environments, allowing for emission-free, silent commutes and significant fuel savings in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Real-World Fuel Economy: Throughout our test drive, we observed remarkable fuel efficiency. In city driving and slow traffic, the EV mode was highly effective, minimizing petrol consumption. On long highway stretches and challenging inclines, the petrol engine seamlessly took over, providing consistent power without any noticeable interruptions. This smooth transition underscores the practicality of the hybrid system for long-distance travel, offering peace of mind that you'll never be short on power.

Practical Charging Solutions

Charging the 18.3 kWh battery is flexible and convenient:

  • DC Fast Charging: A 40kW DC charger can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 19 minutes – perfect for a quick top-up during a rest stop.
  • Standard AC Charging: Using a standard AC charger, a full charge takes around 3 to 8 hours, ideal for overnight charging at home or the office.

The ultimate challenge of completing 1,200km without external charging or refueling, with sealed tanks, truly put the Tiggo PHEVs' efficiency claims to the test. We confirmed its capability, though it certainly required a relaxed and strategic driving style, proving that the incredible 1,200km range is indeed achievable for those who optimize their hybrid driving.


Advanced Safety Features: Confidence on Every Mile with ADAS

Safety is paramount, especially when embarking on long family journeys. Both the Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 7 PHEV come equipped with a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), providing an extra layer of protection and confidence for every driver.

Key ADAS Features We Relied On:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, providing gentle steering corrections and warnings if unintentional lane departure is detected.
  • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) & Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Alerts the driver to potential front-end collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if necessary to mitigate or avoid an impact.
  • Blind Spot Detection (BSD): Warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spots, crucial for safe lane changes.
  • Traffic Jam Assist (TJA): Provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities in heavy traffic, managing acceleration, braking, and steering.

During our extensive drive across highways and winding hilly roads, features like ACC and LKA were invaluable. They provided consistent stability and crucial support, significantly reducing the strain of hours behind the wheel. What's more, one of our test drivers had only recently obtained their 'P' license, highlighting how these systems truly act as a 'co-pilot', especially in challenging conditions like heavy traffic or unpredictable weather. This robust ADAS package ensures a safer, more relaxed driving experience for everyone in the vehicle.


Unrivaled Comfort: A Premium Family SUV Experience

The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV truly excels in delivering a premium cabin experience, making it an outstanding choice for families and long-distance travelers. As a 7-seater SUV, it prioritizes spaciousness, ensuring ample room for all occupants to relax and enjoy the journey.

Elevated Comfort Features:

  • Spacious & Quiet Cabin: The Tiggo 8 PHEV offers generous interior space, complemented by excellent Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) control, resulting in a serene and hushed cabin environment even at highway speeds.
  • Immersive Infotainment: A large 15.6-inch infotainment unit, paired with a high-fidelity Sony audio system featuring 10 speakers, delivers an engaging and immersive entertainment experience.
  • Balanced Suspension: The suspension system strikes a perfect balance between softness for comfort and stability for confident handling, absorbing road imperfections gracefully while maintaining composure around bends.
  • Efficient Climate Control: The ventilation and air conditioning systems are highly efficient, ensuring optimal cabin temperature and comfort regardless of external weather conditions.
  • Premium Materials & Ergonomics: High-quality cabin materials and ergonomically designed seats provide superior support, essential for minimizing fatigue during extended drives.
  • Modern Dashboard Layout: The dashboard boasts a modern, user-friendly layout, placing controls intuitively within reach for a seamless driving experience.

These features collectively contribute to the Tiggo 8 PHEV's appeal as a truly comfortable and premium family SUV, transforming every journey into a pleasurable experience.


What We Loved & What Could Be Improved: An Honest Assessment

Based on our real-world experience, here's an objective summary of the Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV's strengths and areas for refinement:

5 Things We Loved:

  1. Extraordinary Combined Range: The hybrid system's ability to deliver over 1,000km on a full tank and charge, even pushing to the proven 1,200km under careful driving, is truly impressive and banishes range anxiety.
  2. Effective ADAS Suite: The driver-assistance systems functioned flawlessly, providing smooth and reliable support, significantly enhancing safety and driving ease.
  3. Premium Cabin Comfort: The Tiggo 8 PHEV's interior feels genuinely premium and exclusive, offering ample space and features perfectly suited for families.
  4. Excellent Fuel Economy: Whether in urban traffic or on long highways, the SUV's fuel efficiency proved to be consistently strong, reducing running costs.
  5. Stable & Capable Suspension: The suspension provided a confident and calm ride, even when navigating challenging hilly roads and uneven surfaces.

5 Things That Could Be Improved:

  1. Limited True EV Mode on Highways: While effective in the city, the pure EV mode felt less stable at higher speeds on the highway. Aggressive drivers might find themselves engaging the petrol engine more frequently, impacting potential fuel savings.
  2. Complex Infotainment System: The operation of the 15.6-inch infotainment unit was somewhat intricate. New users might take some time to fully adapt and navigate its functionalities efficiently.
  3. Third-Row Space in Tiggo 8 PHEV: The third row, while present, could feel a bit cramped for taller adult passengers on longer journeys.
  4. Occasional Uneven Transmission Shift: Under aggressive acceleration, the hybrid system's gear shifts occasionally felt less smooth compared to some higher-end premium models.
  5. Demanding Control in Wet Conditions: Despite the assistance from ADAS, driving in heavy rain and on slippery roads still required significant driver attention and careful control.

The Verdict: Chery Tiggo PHEVs – A Practical & Compelling Choice for Malaysians

Our extensive test drive unequivocally demonstrates that the Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV and Tiggo 8 PHEV are far more than just generic hybrid SUVs. They represent a compelling solution that combines advanced technology, remarkable driving range, and robust safety features – a package rarely found at their competitive price points in Malaysia. The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV, with its expansive cabin and premium comforts, captivates those seeking a luxurious family-friendly experience. Meanwhile, the Tiggo 7 PHEV offers a more compact yet equally capable alternative, without sacrificing essential aspects like fuel economy and comprehensive ADAS. For Malaysian families and individuals searching for an affordable, full-featured hybrid SUV capable of both daily commutes and epic long-distance adventures, both Chery Tiggo PHEV models stand as highly recommended contenders. These vehicles aren't just an investment in a car; they're an investment in a smarter, more efficient, and more confident driving future. Ready to make the switch?

Dive into a world where sustainability meets performance, and explore the Chery Tiggo PHEV range at your nearest dealership today. Share your own PHEV experiences in the comments below – we'd love to hear how these innovative SUVs are transforming your journeys!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What makes the Chery Tiggo PHEVs suitable for long-distance travel in Malaysia?
A1: The Chery Tiggo PHEVs excel in long-distance travel due to their impressive combined range of up to 1,200km on a single tank and charge. Their seamless hybrid system transitions between electric and petrol power, ensuring consistent performance. Coupled with comprehensive ADAS features for enhanced safety and comfort, and efficient fast-charging options, they are perfectly adapted for varied Malaysian road conditions, from highways to challenging terrain.

Q2: How does the "1,200km on one tank" claim translate to real-world driving?
A2: Our test drive confirmed that the 1,200km range is achievable under effective and optimized driving conditions, including strategic use of EV mode in urban areas and maintaining a relaxed cruising speed. While aggressive driving might slightly reduce this figure, the underlying Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) platform and efficient 1.5L TGDi engine consistently deliver excellent fuel economy, making long journeys highly efficient.

Q3: Are the ADAS features reliable and beneficial for new drivers?
A3: Absolutely. The ADAS suite, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA), was found to be highly reliable and provided significant support during our test drive, even for a new driver. These systems act as a 'co-pilot', offering stability, reducing fatigue, and enhancing overall safety in various driving scenarios, making them particularly beneficial for less experienced drivers seeking added confidence.

Q4: What is the main difference in comfort and features between the Tiggo 8 PHEV and Tiggo 7 PHEV?
A4: The Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV, being a 7-seater, offers a more spacious and overtly premium cabin experience, ideal for larger families, with features like a 15.6-inch infotainment system and Sony 10-speaker audio. The Tiggo 7 PHEV provides a more compact and agile package, while still maintaining excellent fuel economy, safety features (ADAS), and a high level of comfort for its class, making it a strong contender for smaller families or those preferring a slightly smaller footprint.

Q5: Is the infotainment system user-friendly for everyday use?
A5: While the 15.6-inch infotainment system in the Tiggo 8 PHEV offers a wealth of features and a large display, we noted that its operation could be somewhat complex for first-time users. It may require a short period of adaptation to fully master its functionalities. However, once familiar, its intuitive modern layout and extensive capabilities enhance the overall driving experience.

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