By Otsile Kadiege

Chery South Africa has added another electrified model to its growing range – the new Tiggo 8 CSH Hybrid. Following the Tiggo Cross CSH Hybrid and Tiggo 7 CSH Plug-in Hybrid, this latest seven-seater aims to give local families more choice when it comes to eco-friendly motoring without losing comfort, style, or space.

Powertrain and performance

Under the bonnet, the Tiggo 8 CSH combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a strong 255kW and 525Nm output. Power goes to the front wheels via Chery’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), with three drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – to suit your mood or road conditions.

Thanks to its 18.3kWh battery, the SUV can travel up to 90km on electric power alone, while the total range is an impressive 1,200km. Fuel economy is outstanding at just 1.3L/100km (or 5.2L/100km when the battery’s state of charge drops below 30%).

Chery has also tested the battery in extreme conditions, including heat, heavy rain, and even underwater. It’s IP68-rated, built with high-strength steel protection, and has advanced safety systems that cut power instantly in a collision.

Exterior styling highlights

The Tiggo 8 CSH keeps the sleek and premium design of the petrol model but adds its own flair. Highlights include:

1)Diamond-pattern grille unique to the hybrid

2)Sportier front bumper

3)19-inch alloy wheels

4)Automatic LED headlights

Interior design and technology highlights

Inside, the Tiggo 8 CSH seats seven in a 2+3+2 layout. Comfort is a priority with:

1) Heated and ventilated electric front seats (six-way driver with lumbar, four-way passenger)

2) Queen Seat for the passenger with a massage function

3) Soft black synthetic leather trim

4) Panoramic sunroof

5) Dual-zone climate control

6) Ambient lighting

7) 15.6-inch touchscreen

8) 12-speaker Sony system

Practicality and storage

Whether it’s a family trip or a sports run, the Tiggo 8 CSH has you covered:

1) 494L boot space with the third row folded

2) Expands to 1,930L with the second row down

3) 117L cargo area even with all seven seats in use

4) Roof rails

5) Multiple USB ports

6) Type-C fast charging

7) 12V outlet

Safety and driver assistance

The Tiggo 8 CSH is loaded with 10 airbags (including a centre and knee airbag) and a full suite of driver aids like:

1) Adaptive Cruise Control

2) Lane Departure Warning & Prevention

3) Front Collision Warning & Auto Emergency Braking

4) Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross Traffic Alert

5) Door Opening Warning

6) 540-degree camera with parking sensors

7) Driver Monitoring System

Pricing and warranty

The latest addition to the Chery hybrid lineup will retail from R729,900 and comes standard with Chery’s after-sales package, which includes a seven-year/90,000 km service plan, a seven-year/200,000 km warranty, and Chery’s 10-year/1-million km engine warranty (for 1st owner but can be transferred to a second owner if vehicle is purchased from a Cherished pre-owned dealership) and a 10-year/Unlimited km battery warranty