Chery Tiggo 8 2025 Review: 7-Seat Hybrid Value

The Chery Tiggo 8 emerges as a compelling option for families seeking a spacious, tech-laden SUV without the premium price tag. This plug-in hybrid model combines practicality with modern features, positioning itself against established competitors like the Kia Sorento and Peugeot 5008. Drawing from multiple expert evaluations, it delivers strong efficiency and comfort, though not without some compromises in usability and dynamics.

Powertrain and Efficiency: Super Hybrid Technology

At the heart of the Tiggo 8 lies Chery’s Super Hybrid system, a 204hp plug-in hybrid setup shared with the smaller Tiggo 7. This powertrain pairs a petrol engine primarily for range extension with electric motors for direct drive, yielding an official EV-only range of around 56 miles. Real-world tests confirm brisk acceleration for its size, with smooth transitions between electric and hybrid modes. Fuel economy hits an impressive 235mpg in combined cycles, alongside low CO2 emissions of 31g/km, translating to a mere 9% BIK tax rate for company car drivers—highly attractive for fleet buyers.

The system prioritizes electric propulsion for urban driving, where the petrol engine acts as a generator. This setup ensures responsive performance, making overtakes feel confident even on highways. However, some reviewers note minor dynamic drawbacks, such as rattly steering over bumps and understeer under hard acceleration.

Driving Experience: Balanced Yet Firm

On the road, the Tiggo 8 handles competently for a large seven-seater. It feels planted in corners, resisting body roll better than many peers in its price bracket. The ride quality shines on smoother surfaces and during highway cruising, absorbing imperfections effectively. Low-speed firmness over potholes or rough patches is a noted quirk, but overall composure remains strong—even on freshly resurfaced roads.

Braking is progressive, and the hybrid system’s regenerative setup adds to efficiency without harshness. While not a driver’s delight like sportier SUVs, its refinement suits family duties, with quiet cabin noise levels enhancing long journeys.

Design and Dimensions: Larger Than Expected

Stretching longer than the Tiggo 7 by 189mm with a 41mm extended wheelbase, the Tiggo 8 adopts flush door handles for a sleeker profile. Its bold styling includes sharp LED headlights and a prominent grille, giving it a premium presence. Available trims like Summit and Ultimate elevate the look with 19-inch alloys and chrome accents.

Dimensions provide ample presence: length around 4.7 meters, width over 1.9 meters, making it a true large SUV. This extra size translates to generous second-row legroom and headroom, ideal for adults, while the third row suits children primarily due to tighter headspace.

Interior Quality and Comfort: Premium Feel on a Budget

Step inside, and the Tiggo 8 surprises with its upscale cabin. Materials mimic luxury brands—soft-touch surfaces, quilted leatherette seats, and Alcantara-like trims create a plush ambience rivaling BMW or Mercedes at half the cost. Switchgear feels damped and solid, though lower door panels may reveal harder plastics.

Seating for seven includes supportive front chairs, with some models offering passenger-side massage—a unique touch, albeit oddly absent for the driver in right-hand-drive markets. Second-row captain’s chairs or bench provide versatility, and air vents ensure even climate distribution. A clever air purification system with ionization combats pollutants and pollen, a boon for allergy sufferers.

• Front seats: Heated, ventilated, and adjustable with memory functions on top trims.
• Second row: Sliding and reclining for optimal space.
• Third row: Fold-flat for flexibility, but access is narrow.

Technology and Infotainment: Feature-Packed Screens

A massive 15.6-inch central touchscreen dominates the dash, delivering crisp graphics and intuitive menus for navigation, media, and climate control. Dual-screen setups in some variants separate driver displays, improving usability. However, the sheer size can obscure edges from certain driving positions, and consolidating too many functions invites distraction—physical buttons for basics would help.

Standout tech includes a head-up display projecting key data, wireless charging, and a headrest speaker for private calls. Sony audio, 360-degree cameras, and adaptive cruise complete the suite. Voice commands respond reliably, and over-the-air updates keep software fresh.

Practicality and Load Space: Family-Friendly with Limits

Boot capacity disappoints with all seats up at 117 litres—smaller than rivals. Folding the third row unlocks 494 litres, adequate for groceries or weekend gear, but trails the Sorento’s 809 litres. A hands-free tailgate and underfloor storage add convenience.

Roof rails support extra cargo, and towing capacity reaches 1,500kg braked.

Safety and Reliability: Solid Foundations

Chery equips the Tiggo 8 with comprehensive aids: autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. Top trims add rear cross-traffic alert. While Euro NCAP ratings are pending for this model, related Chery vehicles score well. Some markets note variances in safety spec, urging buyers to verify local standards.

Running Costs and Ownership: Exceptional Value

Priced from around £36,000 for the Summit Super Hybrid, it undercuts rivals by £10,000. Residual values hold at 42.9% after three years, with low fuel and tax costs yielding 51p per mile. Servicing is affordable at £4,100 over three years/60,000 miles. Warranty spans 7 years/100,000 miles, bolstering confidence in this emerging brand.

Trims and Pricing Overview

• Urban: Entry-level with core hybrid tech, 15.6in screen, safety suite.
• Summit: Adds HUD, massage seats, premium audio.
• Ultimate: Top-spec with Alcantara, advanced driver aids, panoramic roof.

A $5,000 premium over Tiggo 7 Ultimate justifies the added space and refinements.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Outstanding value, efficient hybrid, premium interior, generous kit list, smooth power delivery.
• Cons: Tiny boot with seats up, firm low-speed ride, third row for kids only, some handling niggles, large screen usability issues.

Who Should Buy the Chery Tiggo 8?

Ideal for budget-conscious families needing seven seats, low running costs, and modern tech. Company car users benefit most from BIK savings. Avoid if prioritizing vast boot space or dynamic prowess—consider Hyundai Santa Fe alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the electric range of the Chery Tiggo 8?

Up to 56 miles on battery alone, with real-world figures around 50 miles depending on conditions.

Is the third row usable for adults?

Best for children; adults may find headroom and legroom insufficient for longer trips.

How does the Tiggo 8 compare to the Kia Sorento?

Tiggo 8 wins on price and efficiency but lags in boot space (494L vs 809L) and brand familiarity.

What warranty does it offer?

7 years or 100,000 miles, covering major components.

Is the infotainment user-friendly?

Yes, with logical menus, but the giant screen can be fiddly for some controls.