Chery is charging into Australia’s electrified SUV space, announcing plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of its Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 models. Set to arrive in July 2025, these new variants will be the brand’s first PHEVs in the country, combining electric efficiency with petrol-powered range.
The timing couldn’t be better — with Aussies warming up to hybrid tech, Chery’s move positions it squarely against key rivals like the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
Image shown is of overseas model.
Plug-in power: Chery’s super hybrid system
Under the bonnet, both the Chery Tiggo 7 and Chery Tiggo 8 PHEVs use the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) system — a combination of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. A key highlight? DC fast-charging support, a rare perk in this price segment, which boosts practicality for drivers who don’t have time to wait.
Image shown is of overseas model.
Powertrain specs at a glance
| Specification | Details |
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol |
| Battery Type | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) |
| Battery Capacity | 18.3kWh |
| Electric-only Driving Range | Over 90km (test cycle TBD) |
| Combined Driving Range | Over 1200km |
| DC Fast Charging | 30% to 80% in 19 minutes |
| Petrol Engine Thermal Efficiency | 44.5% |
| Hybrid Transmission Efficiency | 98.5% |
That electric-only range is perfect for daily errands or commutes without burning a drop of fuel, while the total range makes road trips worry-free.
Fresh looks and familiar names
Chery has revealed images of the updated Tiggo 8, showcasing a bolder grille, sharper headlights, and a sportier front bumper. Interestingly, the brand is dropping the “Pro” and “Pro Max” badges, hinting at a simplified naming strategy going forward.
As for size, the Tiggo 8 remains a seven-seater, roughly comparable to the Mitsubishi Outlander, while the Tiggo 7 is a mid-size five-seater. Expect both to carry forward Chery’s reputation for offering loads of features at competitive prices.
More than just two SUVs
These Tiggo twins are part of a bigger electrified game plan. Chery’s premium sub-brand Jaecoo is also launching its J7 SUV in Australia, powered by a similar hybrid setup. The J7 promises 255kW and 525Nm of combined output, along with 90km of WLTP-rated EV range — giving us a clue about what kind of performance the Tiggo PHEVs might deliver.
This all puts Chery in the thick of Australia’s hybrid race, competing not just with BYD and Mitsubishi, but also with Leapmotor and Toyota. While vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offer only minimal electric-only driving, Chery’s 90km range offers a more EV-like experience — minus the range anxiety.
Launch timeline and what’s next?
The Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEVs are set to land in Australian showrooms mid-2025, with final specs and pricing to be revealed closer to launch. If Chery can maintain its reputation for value, these plug-ins could be among the most tempting options for buyers looking to transition toward electric driving without going fully EV.
Would you choose one of Chery’s new plug-in hybrids over a conventional hybrid or EV? Drop your thoughts below — we’d love to hear what you think!
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