Just over a decade ago, everyone started taking note of Korean vehicles. Hyundai and Kia more specifically. Previously, these brands had been available in the South African market, but until then it was more out of necessity than a want to own the vehicle because they liked the brand or the looks. Today, however, these Korean vehicles are not only desired, but also trusted by the market. And they have also become increasingly more expensive and no longer entry-level – as one would expect. But what fills that gap now? What can car buyers look at that will offer them nice things at a nice price?
Chinese vehicles. Their time is now.
Don’t get me wrong, Chinese manufacturers have been around for years, but it’s been in copycat form. Many a German car has been copied in China and sold with the promise of premium, but instead only gave owners headaches with countless issues. I would never have recommended a Chinese vehicle to anyone just a few short years ago. Now, however, Chinese manufacturers have upped their game and I do believe that this is why we can have nice things.
Perhaps the two dominant players in the Chinese vehicle market, at least for South Africa, are Haval and Chery. Both brands have been releasing a slew of vehicles into our local market over the last 12 to 18 months and you can barely turn a corner without seeing one.
Recently, I got behind the wheel of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and honestly, I don’t hate it. I wouldn’t buy it for myself for very particular reasons, but I think it’s actually pretty decent. Let’s talk about it a bit.
The Tiggo 8 Pro is the brand’s flagship SUV that, with seven seats, can fit the whole family. It’s a good-looking vehicle and, happily, while I can see where the brand has been influenced by other vehicles in the market, no copy/paste formula was used here. It looks premium with all the chrome accents and what the brand calls its “starry night” grille. It’s honestly an attractive vehicle. Importantly, it feels premium too. Both outside and in.
The model that we had on test came fully kitted with digital displays, cameras all around to help the driver park. Side cameras also switch on in the direction that you indicate in order to show you what hazards are potentially next to you along the road. Nifty. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come fitted, while USB outlets and wireless charging pads ensure that all tech can be charged and loaded. Something I’ve been noticing more and more in vehicles right now is the quality of the audio – speakers, etc. I have a few go-to songs that I use when I test the audio in a vehicle and this Tiggo passed with flying colours.
Under the bonnet lies a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol with 145 kW and 290 N.m of torque. This is mated with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It’s an adequate combination and although I felt the vehicle to be “lurchy” when going from standstill to moving, it’s something that as an owner I suspect you will get used to and figure out how to easily moderate it.
Something that bothered me was the rear-view mirror. I know it’s an odd thing to be bothered by, but let it explain – IT’S WEIRD. It’s not a normal mirror – it feels like the hall of mirrors and a carnival when you look into it and it gives me motion sickness. It’s a bit trippy. I would not be able to live with that.
Let’s get to costs. There are three models to choose from: Distinction with the above-mentioned engine, the Executive with the same engine and then the Executive Pro Max that comes with a 2.0-litre GDI unit. The starting prices are R496 000, R574 900 and R629 900, respectively. And while that is not a small amount of money, it is excellent value for what is essentially a family-sized SUV with a plethora of standard spec.
My verdict is that it’s a great option for those shopping in this category. Chinese vehicles are getting serious and this one especially deserves your serious consideration.