The new Lepas L6 is set to launch in the coming weeks, marking the next stage of the national rollout for one of South Africa’s newest car brands.
Lepas is a new Chinese automaker that made its local debut in March 2026 with its first car, the L4 crossover.
It is one of two new brands under the Chery Group to launch in South Africa this year, alongside iCAUR, bringing the number of local Chery-affiliated brands up to six.
Lepas is positioned as the middle ground between Chery’s own line of Tiggo SUVs, and the more luxurious models provided by Omoda and Jaecoo.
In May, the carmaker announced that it had already opened 27 dealerships in South Africa, supported by 39 appointed service stations and trained technicians nationwide. This figure has since grown to 29 dealerships.
“Establishing a strong dealer network has been one of our most important priorities from the outset,” said Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas and Chery South Africa.
“Customers want to know that the right people, the right infrastructure and the right long-term commitment back the brand they are buying into. The continued development of our network is an important part of delivering that reassurance.”
Now, the brand is gearing up to launch its second car, the larger L6 SUV.
Pre-orders for the L6 opened on 12 June, and the company is currently offering a R10,000 Early Bird credit to the first 200 customers, which can be put towards a deposit, accessories, an extended service plan, or other options.
“The L4 introduced Lepas to South Africa, but the L6 will give customers an even clearer view of where the brand is going,” said Botes.
“It expands our range, strengthens our showroom offering and gives our dealers another important product with which to engage customers who are looking for design, technology, comfort and value in one package.”
Lepas also confirmed that the flagship L8 will follow at a later date.
“Together, the L4, L6 and upcoming L8 will allow the brand to compete across a broader section of the SUV market while giving customers more choice within the Lepas family,” it said.
What to expect
In South Africa, the L6 will feature a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, generating a total of 108kW and 285Nm.
Lepas has yet to confirm whether we will receive a hybrid version; however, given Chery’s track record of releasing its “Super Hybrid” models post-launch, it’s fair to assume the option will be added eventually.
The vehicle itself is a midsize SUV, which means it is competing in the same bracket as models like the VW Tiguan, Ford Territory, Haval H6, and Toyota RAV4.
However, the pricing is still unknown, so it remains to be seen if the L6 will be dramatically cheaper than its rivals.
As far as equipment is concerned, Lepas said it will feature 19-inch alloy wheels, an electric tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a 13.2-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 540-degree camera system, depending on the trim level.
It will also include up to 22 Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functions, such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
Lepas confirmed that the L6 will be sold with a 10-year/1-million km transferable engine warranty, which is something that is true of all of the Chery Group cars sold in South Africa.
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