Chery is set to make a significant impact in the automotive world with its flagship model, the Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid. Now available for order, this seven-seat plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV is poised to enter Australian showrooms soon, marking the brand’s most expensive offering to date. Despite the price tag, Chery maintains its commitment to value by providing top-spec features at a price point competitive with entry-level models from other brands.
The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is expected to arrive in Australia later this month. Ahead of its local debut, we had the opportunity to test the vehicle during an exclusive visit to Chery’s global headquarters in Wuhu, China. Here’s an in-depth look at what the Tiggo 9 has to offer.
Pricing and Market Position
The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will be available in a single, fully equipped model grade known as the Ultimate, priced at $59,990 plus on-road costs. This positions it slightly below the related Omoda 9, which starts at $61,990. The Tiggo 9 competes directly with entry-level versions of popular large seven-seat SUVs such as the Kia Sorento S AWD, Hyundai Santa Fe AWD, and the hybrid Toyota Kluger GX, all of which have similar pricing before on-road costs.
Interior Design and Features
The Tiggo 9 introduces a new era of interior design for Chery, featuring a modern, clean, and sophisticated aesthetic. The dashboard layout is a straightforward two-piece T-shaped configuration, but the cabin is enhanced with interesting textures, shapes, and highlights, such as upswept stitching on the door panels and ambient interior lighting.
Chery has moved away from the dual-screen setup seen in smaller models, opting instead for a 10.25-inch driver display and a large 15.6-inch multimedia display on the center console. The infotainment system offers a high-resolution screen with an intuitive menu structure, customizable widgets, and shortcuts for ventilation controls.
The center console is defined by a chrome ring surrounding the air vents, with matching highlights around the cupholders and controls. The front seats offer a business-class feel with extendable leg rests, heating, cooling, and massage functions. The middle row provides generous legroom, while the third row is best suited for children or occasional use.
Powertrain and Performance
The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is powered by Chery’s most advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain to date. It combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with three electric motors, delivering a combined output of 315kW and 580Nm of torque. The vehicle offers an impressive 170km electric-only range and can travel up to 1250km on a full charge and tank.
The powertrain includes a 175kW rear axle motor and two front axle motors, all managed by a three-speed dedicated hybrid automatic transmission. The 34kWh battery supports DC fast-charging up to 71kW.
Driving Experience
Despite its price, the Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid surprises with its performance and versatility. It serves as an efficient long-distance cruiser, a city commuter, and a powerful SUV when needed. The vehicle is comfortable and quiet, with seamless acceleration and natural regenerative braking.
The three-speed gearbox operates smoothly, and the petrol engine engages only when necessary. While the Tiggo 9 is a large vehicle, its dynamic performance is expected to improve with the Australian-spec chassis tune, which will be tested locally soon.
Comprehensive Features and Safety
Chery has equipped the Tiggo 9 with a wide array of features:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof with powered sunshade
- Power tailgate and heated exterior mirrors
- Automatic LED headlights and high-beam
- Leather upholstery and premium sound system
- Advanced infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Comprehensive safety suite including 10 airbags and driver assistance systems
While the Tiggo 9 has not yet been tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, it comes with standard safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.
Ownership and Warranty
The Tiggo 9 is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometer vehicle warranty and an eight-year warranty for the high-voltage battery. Chery also offers seven years of roadside assistance and capped-price servicing, with maintenance required every 12 months or 15,000km.
Conclusion: A Compelling Choice
The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid represents a significant step forward for the brand, offering a compelling mix of luxury, performance, and value. It challenges the notion of paying more for less, making it an attractive option in the competitive seven-seat SUV market. As the Tiggo 9 prepares to make its Australian debut, it promises to redefine expectations for affordable luxury SUVs.
