By Malusi Msomi

Chery South Africa has introduced the refreshed Tiggo 7, bringing updated styling and a broader feature set to one of the brand’s most popular global nameplates. The facelift includes a redesigned front grille, sharper styling details, and enhancements across all three model grades: Prime, Prestige, and Legacy.

The Tiggo 7 is available with two turbocharged petrol engines. The entry-level 1.5-litre engine produces 108 kW and 210 Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.9 L/100 km. The more powerful 1.6-litre engine delivers 145 kW and 290 Nm, and comes matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Drivers can choose between Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes.

All models in the Tiggo 7 lineup are equipped with Chery’s dual 12.3-inch digital screens, which serve as a digital instrument cluster and a multimedia touchscreen. Standard connectivity includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Chery’s Intelligent Voice Command system. The SUV includes three USB ports, with at least one being a fast-charging Type-C.

Visually, the front end now features a bold diamond-effect grille, flanked by standard LED headlights. The rear offers a spacious boot with 565 litres of luggage capacity, expandable to 1,396 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Standard features on the Prime model include 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, automatic wipers, rearview camera, and keyless start. The Prestige variant upgrades to 19-inch wheels, faux leather upholstery, a 540-degree camera system, ambient lighting, a six-speaker sound system, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.

The range-topping Legacy variant adds further convenience and comfort with a panoramic sunroof, an eight-speaker Sony sound system, heated front seats, and a power-operated tailgate. It also features the full suite of available safety and driver-assistance systems.

Safety is a key focus across the range. All models come with traction control, electronic stability control, brake assist, and at least four airbags. The Prestige and Legacy variants are fitted with eight airbags, including curtain and front-centre units. ISOFIX child seat anchors and rear parking sensors are standard throughout.

Additional features include heated, power-adjustable side mirrors, roof rails, a multi-function steering wheel, second-row air vents, dual cup holders in both rows, and a front armrest with storage.

The Legacy model comes with a comprehensive list of driver assistance systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, front collision warning, emergency lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, rear collision warning, lane change assist, blind spot detection, traffic jam assist, and intelligent headlamp control. Many of these are also available on the Prestige trim.

According to ANCAP testing, the Tiggo 7 holds a five-star safety rating, with 88% for Adult Occupant Protection, 87% for Child Occupant Protection, 72% for Vulnerable Road User Protection, and 86% in Safety Assist.

The Tiggo 7 range is priced as follows:

• Prime 1.5T: R429,900
• Prestige 1.6T: R499,900
• Legacy 1.6T: R549,900

Every Tiggo 7 comes standard with a five-year/60,000 km service plan, a five-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, and Chery’s 10-year/1-million km engine warranty. The engine warranty is transferable to a second owner if the vehicle is purchased through a Cherished pre-owned dealership.