CheryTiggo 9

The Tiggo 9 is Chery’s flagship in the UK: a large seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV with all-wheel drive. There is a single, very generously equipped Summit trim at £43,105, which undercuts most similarly sized plug-in seven-seaters by thousands.

## Battery, range and charging

A 34.4 kWh battery – far larger than in most plug-in hybrids – gives an official electric range of up to 87 miles. It can rapid charge at up to 71 kW, taking around 20 minutes from 30 to 80% in ideal conditions, while a 7 kW wallbox takes just over five hours. With a flat battery the official combined figure is 40.9 mpg, and the car can also power external devices at up to 6.6 kW.

## Performance and driving

A 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine works with electric motors and a three-speed automatic to drive all four wheels, producing over 420 hp and 580 Nm. That is enough for 0–62 mph in 5.4 seconds and a 112 mph top speed. In normal use it prioritises electric drive and feels like an EV; the ride is composed, but the light steering and sheer size mean it is happiest cruising rather than on narrow back roads. Six drive modes include Snow, Sand and Off-Road.

## Interior and space

The cabin is roomy and well finished, and the third row is usable by adults on moderate journeys. The boot holds 143 litres with all seats up, 819 litres with the third row folded and more than 2,000 litres as a two-seater.

## Technology and safety

Standard kit includes a 16-inch touchscreen, a digital driver display, a 14-speaker Sony audio system, 540-degree cameras, a panoramic sunroof, heated and massaging front seats and rear climate control. The downsides are an over-reliance on the touchscreen and an inconsistent voice assistant.

## Who is it for?

Big families who want a powerful, long-range plug-in hybrid for the price of a mid-spec rival. The MG MGS9, Kia Sorento PHEV and Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV are the main alternatives, with the Chery offering far more power and electric range.