New Chery Tiggo 8 launched in South Africa – and it’s R160,000 cheaper

Chery has expanded its Tiggo 8 family in South Africa with the introduction of a new entry-level model, slashing the vehicle’s starting price in the process.

The new model, dubbed the Apex I, has a starting price of R569,900, making it R160,000 cheaper than the sole existing variant, the CSH (Chery Super Hybrid), which asks for R729,900.

The Apex I also boasts an updated design and an extensive spec sheet, positioning it as one of the brand’s premium family SUVs.

Engine

Unlike the CSH, which features a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the new Apex is equipped with a traditional internal combustion engine.

More specifically, it uses the company’s familiar 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol block, which generates 137kW and 275Nm.

Power is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. All of this results in an average fuel economy of 7.7l/100km, giving the Tiggo 8 a range of 740km on its 57-litre tank.

Features

Visually, the Chery has been given a redesigned front fascia with flowing body lines meant to give it a more modern appearance.

It comes standard with automatic LED headlights, daytime running lights, a full-width LED taillight bar, an electric tailgate, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Cabin additions include a 50W wireless phone charger, keyless start, dual-zone climate control, 64-colour ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, a digital driver display, and an infotainment screen with smartphone pairing.

The front seats are electronically adjustable and feature heating and ventilation settings. The driver’s seat also has powered lumbar support.

Safety and assistance functions on the Chinese SUV comprise a 540-degree camera system, seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist.

Pricing

The South African pricing for the updated Chery Tiggo 8 series is as follows:

• Chery Tiggo 8 1.5T Apex I – R569,900 (New)
• Chery Tiggo 8 1.5T CSH Plug-In Hybrid Apex – R729,900

Each purchase comes with a 7-year/200,000km warranty and a 5-year/75,000km service plan. The first owner also qualifies for Chery’s 10-year/1-million-kilometre engine warranty.