I don’t think anything ever prepares you for the ultimate SUV experience. This is something we don’t talk about, and I think I will be the first one to voice out that an “SUV experience” is an actual thing and something worth discussing. It goes without saying that not all so-called SUVs can live up to this title or even dare to offer you this experience, granted. But it takes a proper, solid, fully-fledged SUV to offer you the perfect SUV experience that’ll catch you off guard. The new Tiggo 8 Pro is summoning you for a ride you deserve and a ride you probably won’t forget anytime soon.
I thought I knew SUVs, but the new Tiggo 8 Pro gave me a run for my money. The Tiggo has a sophisticated appearance that includes a hexagonal grille with three-dimensional diamond-shaped elements, compact headlights similar to those on the Tiggo 4 Pro, and a lower bumper with dramatically scalloped edges and reworked air intakes. Edge-to-edge taillight, roof-mounted spoiler, twin fake exhaust surrounds, electrically adjustable and folding side mirrors with integrated LED indicators, and more are included as standard features with the Tiggo 8 Pro. I know your head is already spinning because how awesome are these features?
Now don’t get me wrong, I know that there have been several people who have doubted the Chery brand and the durability of their vehicles. Chery decided they’re not holding back and one thing they are serious about is proving why their cars are perfect for the savvy South African looking for a bespoke vehicle experience.
Chery has come a long way since the first models they launched many years ago. Their cars no longer feel like the plastic fidget toys you once bought at the bulk Chinese shop. No sir, now they’re savvy, good-looking, well-built products local motorists are falling over their feet to buy. And the most significant factor – they don’t have that awful “cheap” smell we’ve loved to hate in former years. Now, they even smell better, and I got to experience all of that when I tried the new Tiggo.
Cruise control, many airbags, anti-lock brakes, electric windows and mirrors with remote central locking, and keyless engine start were all standard equipment in the test vehicle. Its infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay compatibility for hands-free smartphone usage, and support for music streaming via applications like Audible and YouTube Music were other features I enjoyed. A multi-camera system that projects a 360-degree image of the whole vehicle onto your screen is connected to the primary display of the automobile. Additionally, you receive a cool digital dashboard that you can easily view and customize using the options menus. How awesome is that?
Being in the car is a different experience altogether. Any pressure on the accelerator immediately tells you that you are pulling a 7-seater, with a roar that cannot be missed. The Tiggo 8 Pro is fitted with a 1.6 TGDI engine that produces 145kW/290Nm mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Considering the size of the car, I wasn’t too keen on attempting super agile movements because why are you even pulling off such crazy theatrics in a Tiggo 8 Pro? Not to say that Tiggo would not be able to handle nimble movements, however, it is safe to say that one needs to know the time and place for such things, and I wouldn’t recommend such in this SUV. It’s a really big car.
I was thoroughly impressed by the smart keyless system which is a stellar feature of the car. As soon as you’re a little over a meter away, the Tiggo immediately locks itself and sounds a simple horn to let you know that everything is safe. What blew me away though, is its ability to start the car with a few clicks on the remote. Smart? I completely agree. You’re not going to spend an arm and a leg when it comes to fuel but always bear in mind that you are driving a 7-seater after all.
The built-in Apple-play and infotainment feature will have you entertained as you drive around town. You might be a little let down by the not-so-loud speakers in the car if you talk at the top of your voice like me but rest assured that the whole family will have fun in the car. I am very excited to see what Chery has in store for us, especially after experiencing this new Tiggo range. We really are in for quite a treat, and I cannot wait to try them all. 4 stars from me!
Model & Pricing
- Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Distinctive – R496 900.00
- Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Executive – R546 900.00
BY Sipho ‘Alphi’ Mkhwanazi
