The hybrid vehicle market in South Africa is heating up — and Chery is coming out swinging. With the recent local launch of the Chery Tiggo Cross HEV, the Chinese automaker has made its intentions clear: it’s aiming squarely at one of the country’s most popular hybrid SUVs, the Toyota Corolla Cross. But this isn’t just competition — it’s full-blown hybrid warfare.
At the heart of Chery’s strategy is price. The Tiggo Cross HEV is available in two trims — Comfort at R439,900 and Elite at R469,900 — both of which undercut the Corolla Cross HEV range significantly. Toyota’s entry-level XS HEV comes in at R494,400, while the mid-range XR is R545,220, and the high-spec GR-Sport tops out at R561,700. That’s a price gap of up to R100,000, giving Chery a strong advantage in the price-conscious segment of the market.
Power and Performance
Under the bonnet, the Tiggo Cross HEV pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine (71kW/118Nm) with an electric motor powered by a 1.83kWh battery. The result is a combined output of 150kW and 310Nm, significantly outpacing the Corolla Cross HEV’s 90kW and 142Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), offering a smooth and efficient drive.
Chery also claims a fuel consumption rate of just 5.4 litres/100km, which translates to approximately 1,000km of driving on a full tank — thanks in part to an intelligent start-stop system.
The Tiggo Cross HEV features four adaptive driving modes: Pure Electric, Series Hybrid, Parallel Hybrid, and Energy Recovery. In urban driving conditions, the system prioritises electric-only mode to minimise fuel usage, effectively balancing performance and efficiency while eliminating range anxiety.
Stylish and Feature-Rich
From the outside, both the Comfort and Elite models sport 17-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, a tailgate spoiler, dual exhaust tips, and body-coloured trim. The Elite adds flair with red brake callipers and an electric sunroof.
Inside, drivers are treated to a premium experience with a soft-touch dash, leather upholstery, and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Comfort features include ambient lighting, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and a 60/40 split rear bench. Rear passengers also benefit from dedicated air vents.
Tech-wise, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is paired with a responsive infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. The Comfort model has a four-speaker setup, while the Elite steps it up to six speakers.
Safety Comes Standard
Both trims come well-equipped with safety systems such as Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist, and a full suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). The Comfort model includes a rear-view camera, while the Elite adds advanced driver assistance technologies.
Value-Backed Pricing
- Chery Tiggo Cross HEV Comfort – R439,900
- Chery Tiggo Cross HEV Elite – R469,900
All models include a five-year/150,000km warranty, a 10-year/unlimited mileage battery warranty (first owner), and a five-year/60,000km service plan.
Verdict: A Serious Threat to Toyota
With standout performance, premium features, and bold pricing, the Chery Tiggo Cross HEV is positioning itself as a serious alternative to the Toyota Corolla Cross. By undercutting on price without compromising on spec or safety, Chery has made one thing clear: the hybrid battleground in South Africa has changed — and it’s no longer a one-horse race.
Related article: Chery Unveils Certified Pre-Owned Tiggo SUVs at Unbeatable Prices – Warranty Included
