This Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV review puts the plug-in hybrid version of Chery’s family SUV to the test on UAE roads. Badged Tiggo 8 Pro e+, it pairs a 1.5 litre turbo engine with a plug-in hybrid system for an estimated combined range of up to 1,000 km. After a couple of days of real-world driving, we found that figure realistic. Add a long list of premium features, and it is one of the best-equipped family cars in its class.
Key takeaways
- A 1.5 litre turbo engine with a plug-in hybrid system and up to 1,000 km of combined range.
- Distributed in the UAE by the AW Rostamani Group, which also handles Nissan and Infiniti.
- An AI voice assistant that controls the windows, sunroof and air conditioning.
- Sony sound system with two subwoofers, plus a head-up display and adaptive cruise control.
- Limousine-like rear legroom, though there is no rear screen or sun blind.
Who sells Chery in the UAE?
In the Middle East, Chery is distributed by the AW Rostamani Group, the same group behind Nissan and Infiniti. That matters, because it means the brand is backed by an established, world-class service network, which takes a lot of the worry out of after-sales.
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV: engine and range
Under the bonnet is a 1.5 litre turbo engine working with a plug-in hybrid system. You can charge the battery through the charging port, or let the engine top it up. Together, they give an estimated range of up to 1,000 km on a full tank and a full charge, and in our testing that number looked very achievable in real-world driving.
Exterior design
This is not a run-of-the-mill family car. It has bold lines, full Matrix LED headlights and a diamond-studded grille that recalls Infiniti designs, with chrome detailing and a hidden radar for adaptive cruise control. You get 20 inch wheels on the version we drove, sporty roof rails and tougher lower cladding for mild dune fun. At the back there is a full-width LED tail light, twin exhausts, a sports-car style diffuser and an e+ badge for the hybrid.
Interior, AI assistant and technology
The standout feature is the AI voice assistant. Press the button and ask it to roll the windows down, open the sunroof or switch the air conditioning off and on, and it responds quickly and accurately. We tried it for the first time on camera, and it worked every time.
- Tyre temperature and pressure display on the centre screen
- Fan speed and climate controls laid out on one screen, not buried in menus
- Heated and ventilated seats and dual-zone climate control
- Wireless charger, USB-A and USB-C ports and two cup holders
- Volume control three ways: by voice, by lever and by the main controls
- A button that lets the driver move the front passenger seat forward for more rear legroom
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a customisable digital cluster and a head-up display
- Sony premium sound with two subwoofers
Rear seats: limousine levels of space
The back seat is where this car surprises most. Legroom is close to luxury saloon levels, thigh support is good, and headroom is generous. The full panoramic sunroof extends over the rear, giving passengers a great view. It seats five, but it is best for four, with a fold-down armrest that holds phones and drinks. Rear passengers get two powerful vents and USB-A and USB-C chargers. The only things missing are a rear entertainment screen and an electric sun blind.
How it drives
The Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV delivers its power smoothly. It is quiet around town, visibility is excellent with no major blind spots, and lane keep and lane departure assist are clearly displayed. The flat-bottomed steering wheel adds a sporty touch, and the leather quality punches above the car’s segment.
Our verdict on the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV
It is a comfortable, tech-loaded family SUV that offers peace of mind and strong value for money, and it looks the part too. If you are interested, you can see one in person and book a test drive at Chery showrooms around the UAE.
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV review: frequently asked questions
What is the range of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV?
It has an estimated combined range of up to 1,000 km on a full tank and a full charge, which proved realistic in our testing.
What engine does the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV use?
It uses a 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine combined with a plug-in hybrid system.
Who distributes Chery in the UAE?
Chery is distributed in the Middle East by the AW Rostamani Group, which also distributes Nissan and Infiniti.
Does the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV have voice control?
Yes. Its AI voice assistant can open and close the windows and sunroof and switch the air conditioning on and off.
How many seats does the Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV we tested have?
The version we tested is a five-seater, with very generous rear legroom.
Watch the full video review, read our Geely Monjaro review, and see more in our Automotive section.
