Chery has launched its most ambitious and luxurious model yet in the UK, the Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid, directly targeting established premium brands with a compelling blend of space, technology, and astonishing efficiency. Priced from £43,105, this large seven-seat flagship SUV boasts a total driving range exceeding 650 miles and challenges the notion that luxury and capability come with a six-figure price tag.
A Confident Step into the Premium Arena
Where the Tiggo 8 positioned itself as a value-focused family car, the Tiggo 9 represents a bold statement of intent from the Chinese brand. Developed with input from Chery's European R&D centre, it is offered in a single, fully-loaded Summit specification, meaning buyers get every feature as standard. This includes a panoramic sunroof, massaging front seats, and a comprehensive suite of driver aids.
At over £43,000, it is not an inexpensive car, but the context is crucial. Comparable seven-seat plug-in hybrids from European premium marques often start well beyond £60,000 before adding options. This makes the Tiggo 9's pricing genuinely disruptive, especially when its long electric range and standard four-wheel drive are factored in.
Powertrain, Performance and Real-World Efficiency
Under the bonnet lies Chery's most advanced Super Hybrid system. It combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with twin electric motors and a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission, sending power to all four wheels. The result is a substantial 422bhp and 580Nm of torque, enabling a 0-62mph sprint in just 5.4 seconds.
Yet, the real headline is efficiency. The sizable 34.46kWh battery enables an impressive 91 miles of electric-only driving – exceptional for a vehicle of this size. For many, daily commutes could be entirely emission-free. Combine both power sources, and the claimed total range stretches to over 650 miles, ideal for long-distance touring. The system supports DC rapid charging at up to 71kW, allowing a 30-80% top-up in around 18 minutes.
Luxury, Space and Everyday Practicality
Inside, the Tiggo 9 feels every bit the flagship. The cabin is spacious, airy, and uses high-quality materials. The front seats, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, are among the most comfortable in the class. The second row is equally well-appointed with heated and ventilated seats.
The third row is more usable than in many rivals, though it remains best for children or occasional adult use. Boot space is flexible, becoming cavernous with the rear rows folded. Practical touches abound, including USB ports in every row, wide-opening doors, and a useful vehicle-to-load function for powering external devices.
Technology and Infotainment
Technology is a major focus. The dashboard is dominated by a 15.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen, paired with a digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a comprehensive set of driver assistance systems, including a 540-degree camera.
The 14-speaker Sony audio system is a step up from lesser models, though some may find it lacks ultimate clarity. The infotainment interface, while powerful, requires some familiarisation, as its menu structure isn't as intuitive as systems from Kia or Hyundai.
Verdict: A Quietly Impressive Contender
The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is a quietly impressive flagship that prioritises substance over show. Its strengths are clear: remarkable standard equipment, exceptional front-seat comfort, and a hybrid system that delivers both strong performance and genuine efficiency. It feels refined on long journeys and represents significant value against premium rivals.
Drawbacks include a ride that can feel slightly jiggly on broken surfaces and an infotainment system that demands patience. While the cheaper Tiggo 8 offers much of the core experience for less money, the Tiggo 9 justifies its premium for those seeking the full flagship treatment, more power, and a more luxurious ambience. It successfully makes you question whether you really need to spend far more on a established luxury badge.
