Chery, one of China’s most prominent automotive exporters, has confirmed that it will launch its Tiggo 7 SUV in the UK this summer, marking another bold step in the brand’s expansion into European markets. Already represented in the UK through its Omoda and Jaecoo marques, Chery is now bringing its core nameplate directly to British drivers, with an eye clearly on the family car, fleet, and mid-size SUV sectors.
For businesses considering fleet procurement or expanding their SUV leasing options, the introduction of the Tiggo 7 adds a compelling new player to an already crowded segment. With its attractive starting price, competitive fuel economy, and strong technology specification, the Tiggo 7 is designed to appeal not just to private drivers, but to professional operators seeking high-spec, modern SUVs at a lower cost of ownership.
A Smart Offering in the Compact SUV Class
The Tiggo 7 will be available in two distinct versions: the 1.6-litre TDGI petrol model, priced at £24,995 OTR, and a more advanced Super Hybrid plug-in variant, available from £29,995. Both are positioned to compete directly with small SUVs such as the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and even entry-level models from Jaguar and Land Rover.
From a fleet perspective, the hybrid model stands out. Its CO₂ emissions of just 23g/km and electric range of 56 miles (WLTP) will make it particularly attractive to companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint while taking advantage of Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax incentives. With a total combined range of up to 745 miles, the Super Hybrid also removes a key barrier for drivers with regular long-distance needs – a common concern for electric SUVs.
The plug-in version also supports fast charging (30–80% in just 20 minutes), enhancing its usability in commercial and fleet contexts. Alternatively, it can self-charge on the go, offering flexibility for drivers who may not have regular access to dedicated EV infrastructure.
Practicality and Features That Matter
The Tiggo 7 is positioned as a mid-size SUV that delivers on practicality. All models will be offered as five-seaters, with competitive boot space and a flexible, family-friendly interior layout. The Aspire trim, the entry level, includes a number of premium touches that fleet buyers will appreciate: dual-zone air conditioning, adaptive cruise control, Sony audio system, and both front and rear parking sensors.
A standout feature is the dual 12.3-inch curved screen setup, which offers a clean and modern interface for infotainment and driver controls. It’s the kind of tech-forward presentation that more modern SUVs are moving toward, and it lends the Tiggo 7 an air of refinement typically found in more premium segments.
For added safety and manoeuvrability, Chery has integrated 540-degree cameras with a transparent chassis view – ideal for urban navigation, tight delivery areas, or drivers new to larger vehicles. Three driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) provide additional control over ride comfort and efficiency, depending on conditions or usage.
A Challenger to Established Brands
Chery’s decision to launch the Tiggo 7 in the UK comes at a time when appetite for crossovers and SUVs remains high, especially among corporate users seeking versatile, stylish vehicles with lower running costs. The SUV stand continues to grow, accounting for a major share of new vehicle registrations, and Chery’s strategy reflects a clear desire to attract drivers away from traditional European brands.
With a ride height comparable to that of the Range Rover Evoque and driving dynamics tailored more for comfort than rugged off-road use, the Tiggo 7 fits squarely in the category of urban SUVs – vehicles that offer the commanding driving position and versatility of an SUV without necessarily being designed for off-road terrain.
That said, the Tiggo 7 does bring front-wheel drive capability and a robust build quality that ensures it can handle a wide range of driving environments. For many fleet managers, that balance between form and function, without over-investing in features their drivers won’t use, is exactly what makes a leasing option viable.
Backed by Warranty and Network Growth
All Tiggo 7 models will be covered by a seven-year warranty (or 100,000 miles), providing an added layer of security for business customers planning longer lease terms or high-mileage usage. This warranty support, coupled with Chery’s growing UK dealer network, strengthens confidence in a brand that is still relatively new to British roads.
Chery’s expansion also coincides with rising interest in alternative SUV models – especially those offering new technology without premium pricing. The Tiggo 7’s launch follows that of the larger Tiggo 8, which debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and is due to hit UK showrooms later this year. Together, the Tiggo models are forming a lineup that clearly signals Chery’s intent to build lasting market presence – not just curiosity.
The Fleet Opportunity
For leasing companies, the Tiggo 7 introduces a vehicle with real operational value. It checks several key boxes for corporate buyers:
- Lower acquisition and leasing costs
- Hybrid powertrains with excellent fuel economy
- Strong spec-to-price ratio
- Warranty support for peace of mind
- Appealing tech and safety features
In a market where total cost of ownership is becoming increasingly important, the Tiggo 7 stands as a viable alternative to more expensive rivals. It won’t dethrone Range Rover or premium SUVs just yet, but for businesses seeking reliable, cost-efficient vehicles that support ESG targets and driver comfort, it’s well worth a look.