Chery has launched the super hybrid version (known as the CSH) of its Tiggo 8 at a media event in the NSW Hunter Valley. We were lucky enough to snag the range topping Ultimate for our journey north from Sydney.
Featuring a plush interior, huge sunroof and loads of tech, the Tiggo 8 CSH kicks off at $45,990 drive away in its entry-level Urban trim. Dropping Pro Max from its previous moniker, this refreshed SUV is now on-sale, in two variants.
The CSH variants combining the benefits of an EV and a hybrid, without any of the drawbacks. According to Chery, the system provides silent, swift acceleration in full-electric mode, while the hybrid-petrol mode delivers long-range efficiency and quick refueling.
Under the skin is a fifth-generation 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 105kW and 215Nm, while the single electric motor offers 150kW and 310Nm, sending power to the front wheels via a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).
This stepless electric hybrid system offers four power modes – pure electric, series, parallel, and energy recovery – as well as a couple of driving options. While we’ve come to expect minimal change between such things, the Tiggo 8 was a little different.
Switching to Sport mode saw a definite increase in grunt. It felt like we’d summoned a dragon, which was rather exciting. Whisper quiet, even when using the petrol engine, you can drive it as an EV at low speeds, or get efficiency at higher speeds.
Traveling up to 95km (NEDC) without charging, the battery has an 18.3kWh capacity and can be charged from 30-80 per cent at up to 40kW on a DC fast charger in only 20 minutes.
If you’ve got more than 30 per cent charge in the battery, the CSH can run as a pure EV up to speeds of 120km/h. In hybrid mode, the two units work in unison to deliver a total driving range of a claimed 1,200km.
Technical details aside, the Tiggo 8 features Chery’s signature diamond point grille, muscular 19-inch alloy wheels, power retractable door handles, and LED head and tail lights. Inside, there’s plenty to be impressed with too.
Both variants come standard with synthetic leather seats, a 10-speaker sound system, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and the brand’s intelligent voice command system, called Hello Chery.
While we love the two separate screens, which made it feel more luxurious than just one giant panoramic screen, we still would have loved to have seen separate air-con buttons. That said, the voice command setup adjusted our preferences rather seamlessly.
For those keen for a little more, the Ultimate adds a head-up display and heated and ventilated front seats. The creature comforts don’t stop there, and while the Tiggo 8 is a joy to drive, you may be having arguments about who gets the passenger seat.
You see, Chery has rolled out the exclusive queen’s co-pilot seat, which gives the passenger a massage function, with lots of options. Our personal favourite was cat paw, as well as electric leg rest.
Whether your co-pilot needs a rest or you need to pull over and have a cat nap, this passenger seat is one to dibs. There are few faults, but if we had to pick one, it’s the rearview mirror, which seems to have been made from a fish-eye lens.
It’s rather jarring each time you look at it. That aside, there’s an abundance of safety tech too, including multiple airbags, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking and lane keeping assistance.
We are happy to report the Chinese car maker has improved this system immensely, allowing it to work more subtly. This lets you drive, rather than making you feel like you need to argue with the vehicle.
Seven seats are available in the Tiggo 8, and there are three child seat anchor points in the second row, but none in row three. While this might seem like a negative, if you have five kids under seven in one car, you have more to worry about than the tether points.
The Urban features 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree around view monitor, wireless charging and similarly cord-free Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, puddle lights and a 6-way powered driver’s seat.
The Ultimate, at $49,990 drive away, adds headrest speakers for the driver, illuminated scuff plates, and massage for both front seats, along with the goodies mentioned earlier. On the road, there’s plenty to like about the 2025 Chery Tiggo 8 CSH too.
Ride is comfortable, handling feels planted, and there’s enough grunt to fill you with confidence when you put your foot down. It has more than enough style and creature comforts to make you feel proud to be getting around in it as well.
All Chery vehicles are backed by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty. You also get 7-years capped price servicing and 7-years roadside assist. To find out more, contact your local dealership.
Our test vehicle was provided by Chery Australia as part of an Australian media launch event. Our participation in the event included meals and accommodation at Spicers Vineyards Estate in the NSW Hunter Valley.
