CAR REVIEW: ‘Chery Tiggo 7 plug-in hybrid has the tech!’ – Ernest Page, motoring journalist

CapeTalk's Pippa Hudson speaks to motoring journalist Ernest Page.

Listen below: 

Chery has introduced a range of hybrid vehicles to South Africa, including the Tiggo Cross CSH HEV and the Tiggo 7 CHS PHEV, offering both mild and plug-in hybrid options.

"... a Joburg to Cape Town trip on one tank of fuel... a lot of people are okay with the fuel consumption based on the price of the vehicle and the fact that they get a laundry list of features on the car..."

- Ernest Page, Motoring Journalist

"They are getting so many things right... addressing the issues with every new generation where a legacy manufacturer might wait three years for an update, these guys are making updates every year or two."

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

Page test-drove the plug-in hybrid version of its Tiggo 7 SUV in South Africa, called the Tiggo 7 CSH PHEV.

This model combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery, offering both petrol and electric driving modes.

The Tiggo 7 CSH PHEV also boasts a pure electric range of up to 93 km and a total range of 1,200 km. 

From adjustable cold to warm seating, lane assists, smooth sailing over speed bumps, fast charging options and more, Page says the specs range doesn't leave you wanting more.

This model's price ranges between R619,900 and R679,900 with a limited launch price of R599,900. 

"I've spent a couple of days with this car and it's got a massive spec list of every massive feature you can think of... It's very comfortable to drive. 

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

"You can go up to 93 kilometres on just electric alone... I can now drive my car to work and back without using any fuel, and that's a fantastic selling point for anyone. You plug it in at home, it takes four to eight hours to charge on a normal AC, and it takes about 45 minutes for fast charging... the Chery Tiggo has the tech."

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

"... I think this is the move we've been waiting for to give some of those legacy manufacturers some competition in the plug-in hybrid space."

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.