By Otsile Kadiege

Chery South Africa recently announced that the Tiggo 4 Pro will be available with an optional 7-speed DCT gearbox sourced from its sibling – the Tiggo 7 Pro Max. Other updates include a revised interior as well as new technologies. These updates come after consultations with clients who want a sportier driving experience and improved fuel economy as well as an up to date cabin with the latest gizmos.

DCT equals to improved fuel consumption

According to Chery engineers, the newly added transmission saved close to half-a-litre fuel per 100 km during their durability testing of the new model and transmission. In the measurement of testing on actual roads in South Africa, it approximately saves close to 1.6 litres of fuel per 100 km (depending on driving style and environmental conditions). The fuel consumption improvement is noticeable in the turbo-charged 108 kW version of this engine.

Software update on the horizon for CVT gearbox

Chery is not only focusing on the improvement for the new product, rather the team is duly dedicated on optimizing the driving experience and fuel consumption for the previous T4 buyer. There is a new software update for the Tiggo4Pro CVT version which is currently being tested. Chery South Africa has invited several customers privately to join the test team. Initial results show a significant improvement in fuel consumption tests on actual South African roads. This new software will soon be available to customers – a true testament to Chery’s commitment to customer orientation.

Interior updates

In typical Chery fashion, the engineers and product planning team have used the introduction of the new transmission to also add extra interior and technology updates. The new centre console layout shares commonality of the Tiggo 7 Pro, with additional storage space and an integrated 15W wireless charging pad (Elite model only) and touch-screen air conditioning screen with controls for both air conditioning zones.

Buyers of the Elite SE version of the Tiggo 4 Pro with DCT will get a new high-resolution infotainment screen with offline navigation, a radio data system (RDS) equipped radio and wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Pricing and warranty

The new Tiggo 4 Pro LiT DCT is available immediately for R382,900 and the Tiggo 4 Pro Elite DCT retails for R415,900. As is standard across the range, both models are sold with a 1 million kilometre/10-year engine warranty and a 5-year/150 000 km warranty.  5 year/60 000 km service plan.