The Chery Tiggo 7 is making a splash in the UK market as a surprisingly competitive SUV, offering a lot of equipment and practicality for its price. While it doesn’t quite match the driving experience of established rivals, it’s a strong contender for buyers prioritizing value.
A New Player in a Crowded Market
Chery is rapidly expanding into the UK, and the Tiggo 7 is a key model in their lineup. It’s positioned against rivals like the Dacia Bigster and MG HS, but undercuts many competitors on price. The Tiggo 7 shares a platform with the Jaecoo 7 and Omoda 7, but Chery focuses on affordability, making it the most accessible of the three. It’s available with either a petrol engine or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, in two trim levels: Aspire and Summit.
Packed with Features, Even in Base Trim
The Tiggo 7 doesn’t skimp on equipment. Even the entry-level Aspire comes with twin 12.3-inch screens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, LED lights, a six-way powered driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control. The Summit trim adds a powered tailgate, a four-way powered passenger seat, a panoramic sunroof, a Sony sound system, and a 360-degree camera system.
Competitive Pricing and Discounts
The Tiggo 7 starts at just £24,995 with the 1.6-liter petrol engine, significantly cheaper than the Jaecoo 7, which starts above £30,000. The plug-in hybrid version is even more compelling at £29,995, making it the UK’s cheapest plug-in hybrid SUV. Discounts of over £1,500 are already available, making it an even more attractive option.
Driving Experience: Easygoing but Not Engaging
The Tiggo 7 prioritizes comfort over excitement. The ride is generally smooth, but it lacks the sharpness of some rivals. The 1.6-liter petrol engine is adequate, but not particularly quick. The plug-in hybrid version offers smoother acceleration, but the three-speed gearbox can feel hesitant.
The steering is light, and there’s noticeable body roll in corners. It’s not a car designed for spirited driving, but it’s perfectly comfortable for everyday use.
Urban and Motorway Comfort
The Tiggo 7 is easy to maneuver in town, with a tight turning circle and light steering. Visibility is good, and the standard parking sensors and rear camera make parking a breeze.
On the motorway, the ride is decent, although tire and wind noise become noticeable at higher speeds. The suspension is on the softer side, which helps absorb bumps but can also feel a bit wallowy.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The petrol engine is thirsty, averaging around 27 mpg. The plug-in hybrid is much more efficient, with a claimed electric range of 56 miles and a combined fuel economy of over 343 mpg.
Insurance costs are relatively high, but depreciation is reasonable. The plug-in hybrid benefits from lower tax rates, making it an attractive option for company car drivers.
Interior Design and Practicality
The interior is surprisingly well-designed for the price, with a modern layout and decent materials. The seats are comfortable, and there’s plenty of space for passengers. The boot is a good size, although the plug-in hybrid version has slightly less space due to the battery.
The infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. However, the rear seats only split 60/40, which isn’t as versatile as some rivals.
Dimensions and Space
The Tiggo 7 is similar in size to other family SUVs like the Dacia Bigster and Nissan Qashqai. It offers ample headroom and legroom for passengers, and the high roofline makes it easy to get in and out.
Conclusion
The Chery Tiggo 7 is a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. It offers a lot of equipment, practicality, and a surprisingly refined interior for its price. While it doesn’t excel in driving dynamics, it’s a comfortable and well-equipped SUV that punches above its weight. If you’re looking for value, the Tiggo 7 is definitely worth considering
