Chery introduces Tiggo 9 PHEV as flagship of SUV range

Since being introduced in 2005, the Tiggo model line from Chery has steadily evolved, with 2016 marking a major shift in design and technology with the Tiggo 7 Pro, followed by the Tiggo 8 Pro two years later. Both models then spearheaded Chery’s SUV sales overseas, contributing to the brand maintaining its position as China’s largest exporter of passenger vehicles.

As Chery’s reach has covered more and more markets, the diverse needs of customers have become apparent in different markets and with the addition of the new Tiggo 9, the brand now has a flagship model positioned above the Tiggo 8 Pro to offer.

Presented this week as Auto China 2024 (the 18th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition), the Tiggo 9 embodies the spirit of the Tiggo family’s motto: Conquer with you, Guard for love. This motto provided the inspiration for Tiggo Design Director Sajdin Osmancevic and his team who drew on two key concepts: ‘Conquer’ and ‘Guard’.

Explaining the application of the concept, Osmancevic said that the Conqueror’s essence is in the exterior design while there is the  Guardian’s assurance in the interior, blending the brand vision and creative innovation.

The exterior, with dynamic body lines, features an eye-catching octagonal grille which shares some styling elements with the rest of the Tiggo family but also has a few that are unique to the flagship model.

Within the 4.82-metre long body are three rows of seats (like the Tiggo 8 Pro) which allows for it to be a 5-seater or, when there are extra people to carry, a 7-seater. The ‘Guard’ concept creates a warm, secure, and highly tech-savvy private space with a generous volume.

The dashboard has a 15.6-inch 2.5K HD screen and integrated multi-functional console for operational ease. Specially crafted 3D stitched seats add visual appeal while the seats themselves are said to ensure unmatched comfort.

The Tiggo 9 has a New Energy Vehicle (NEV) powertrain in the form of a plug-in hybrid system (PHEV). While the 2-litre turbocharged engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission produces 175 kW/385 Nm, the system’s 3DHT electric motor generates a maximum power of 165 kW. This significantly enhances the vehicle’s acceleration and more importantly, extends the range beyond 1,400 kms, the claimed figure making a strong impression at the motorshow. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 19.2 kms/litre.

With the forthcoming launch of fuel and PHEV versions of the Tiggo 9 in the fourth quarter of 2024, Chery aims to strengthen its leadership in the luxury SUV market globally. Whether it will come to Malaysia is not known since Chery Malaysia looks like it’s covering the premium segment with the J7 from the JAECOO brand.

Chery was China’s top car exporter again in 2023