Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV Review: Powerful, Practical SUV for Pakistan
Chery has introduced the Tiggo 8 PHEV, a seven-seater SUV that challenges conventional expectations of family vehicles with its extraordinary power and efficiency. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines a potent drivetrain with smart design and advanced technology, making it a notable option for Pakistani buyers seeking both performance and practicality.
Power and Performance
The Tiggo 8 PHEV is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged TGDI petrol engine paired with dual electric motors and an 18.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a combined output of 496 horsepower and 735 Nm of torque. This AWD SUV accelerates briskly, effortlessly outpacing many standard sedans on the road. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is seamlessly supported by both the petrol engine and electric motors, making the Tiggo 8 a rare blend of muscle and efficiency.
Its electric-only mode offers a real-world urban driving range of 70 to 80 kilometers before switching to hybrid operation, supporting everyday city commutes on electric power alone. Fuel economy averages around 15 km/l in mixed driving, extending to nearly 13 km/l on the highway at cruising speeds, and owners have reported up to 19 km/l under gentle driving conditions.
Design, Features, and Comfort
Emphasizing bold aesthetics, the Tiggo 8 showcases a pronounced ‘Tiger Nose’ grille and LED lighting with intelligent matrix DRLs that double as turn signals. Sitting on 19-inch alloy wheels with Continental Super Silent tires and robust body cladding, the vehicle projects a rugged yet refined presence.
Inside, the SUV impresses with a cabin inspired by luxury designs, featuring suede and wood-textured trims alongside dynamic ambient lighting that syncs to music. Unique touches include powered, heated, and ventilated seats with lumbar support, and a special “Queen Seat” up front that offers multi-mode massage and extendable thigh support. The 12-speaker Sony audio system, including speakers integrated into the driver’s headrest, heightens in-cabin entertainment.
With flexible seating configurations, the Tiggo 8 comfortably adapts between cargo needs and passenger capacity, offering over 700 liters of boot space in five-seater mode and exceeding 1,100 liters when both the second and third rows are folded. A motorized tailgate with adjustable height adds convenience for loading.
Technology, Safety, and Running Costs
Chery equips the Tiggo 8 with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including self-leveling LED headlights, augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD), and a digital driver’s cluster.
The infotainment system features a large 15.6-inch display and supports Urdu navigation, a Qibla finder, and voice commands branded as “Hello Chery,” catering to local preferences.
Charging costs remain economical; a full recharge from the grid (WAPDA) costs approximately PKR 900, translating to a running cost near PKR 10-12 per kilometer. Solar charging reduces this further to PKR 5 per kilometer, making it comparable to the cost of a small motorcycle in Pakistan.
What This Means for Pakistani Buyers
With Pakistan’s increasing demand for spacious, efficient, and technologically advanced vehicles, the Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV stands out as a powerful contender in the SUV segment. Its hybrid powertrain addresses concerns about fuel prices and environmental impact, while its spacious interior meets the practical needs of larger families. The SUV’s premium features and safety technology also provide value that is uncommon in this price bracket.
As fuel economy and performance combine in a stylish package, Pakistani consumers looking for an all-rounder vehicle may find the Tiggo 8 PHEV a compelling choice that blends modern mobility with smart cost management.
“Those Civic and Corolla owners who think a quick rev can keep up won’t stand a chance against this PHEV AWD,” noted test driver Suneel Munj after extensive road testing.
