CheryTiggo 7

The Tiggo 7 is Chery’s mid-size family SUV and the cheapest way into the brand’s UK line-up. It sits below the seven-seat Tiggo 8 and goes up against the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage on size, but costs thousands less. This petrol version comes in two trims, Aspire from about £24,995 and Summit from about £27,995.

## Engine and economy

Power comes from a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 147 hp, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and front-wheel drive. There is no hybrid assistance, so official economy is around 40 mpg – noticeably behind hybrid rivals such as the Dacia Duster. If you cover lots of short trips, the Super Hybrid plug-in version is the more economical choice.

## Performance and driving

0–62 mph takes 9.4 seconds and top speed is 112 mph, which is adequate rather than lively. The ride is comfortable and soaks up most bumps, but the steering offers little feel and grip runs out earlier than in the best rivals. The engine also gets loud when worked hard, and testers have noted some vibration through the wheel at low speed.

## Interior and space

The cabin feels better finished than the price suggests, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces, a good driving position and – unusually for a Chinese SUV – physical climate controls. Rear legroom is generous, but the 426-litre boot is smaller than in most rivals, and the rear seats are less versatile than a Sportage’s or Tucson’s.

## Technology and safety

Even the Aspire comes with 18-inch alloys, LED headlights, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and a reversing camera, plus twin screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Summit adds a powered tailgate, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic roof and a Sony sound system. Adaptive cruise control and a full suite of driver aids are standard.

## Who is it for?

Buyers who want a well-equipped family SUV for small-hatchback money and a long seven-year warranty. Rivals include the MG HS, Dacia Duster and Nissan Qashqai; if you need a bigger boot or a more polished drive, the Skoda Karoq or Kia Sportage are worth the extra.