Chery Malaysia launches Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 CSH plug-in hybrids from RM129,800 to RM159,800

Chery Malaysia has broadened its electrified portfolio with the introduction of two new plug-in hybrid SUVs, the Tiggo 7 CSH PHEV and Tiggo 8 CSH PHEV, priced at RM129,800 and RM159,800 respectively. Both are positioned under the recently announced Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) banner, which is set to become the umbrella identity for the brand’s plug-in offerings in Malaysia.

• Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV CSH - RM129,800
• Chery Tiggo 8 PHEV CSH - RM159,800

While the CSH variant of the Tiggo 7 comes expectedly with something of a price premium, the Tiggo 8 CSH is priced exactly the same as the non-hybrid petrol-powered Tiggo 8 Pro. Yup, this makes zero sense to us as well….

For a little context: 

• Jaecoo J7 PHEV - RM158,800
• Chery Tiggo 8 Pro - RM159,800 (??)

Powertrain and efficiency

At the heart of both SUVs lies Chery’s series-parallel hybrid system, centred on a 1.5-litre turbocharged Miller-cycle engine producing 143 PS and 215 Nm. Notably, Chery highlights its 44.5% thermal efficiency, placing it among the most efficient internal combustion engines in the industry.

Paired with an electric motor, the total system output stands at 279 PS and 365 Nm, a slightly detuned version of the setup first seen locally in the Jaecoo J7 PHEV. Power is sent to the front wheels, with the Tiggo 8 capped at a top speed of 180 km/h.

An LFP battery provides up to 90–95 km of pure electric driving, with a total range claimed at over 1,200 km. Charging is competitive, requiring only 19 minutes to go from 30–80% via DC fast charging at 40 kW, or around three hours for a full charge with a 6.6 kW AC wallbox. Both models also feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality rated at 3.3 kW.

Design updates

The Tiggo 7 CSH PHEV distinguishes itself from its petrol sibling with a significant redesign. Inspired by the Tiggo 8, it features a sealed diamond-pattern grille, reshaped headlights with dual L-shaped DRLs, and a sportier bumper treatment. At the rear, sleeker taillights and a full-width light bar echo the design language of the Tiggo Cross. The model also gains 18-inch alloy wheels for a more premium stance.

The larger Tiggo 8 CSH PHEV receives an even more extensive facelift. Slimmer headlights, a thinner grille surround, and a new aerodynamic bumper with functional air curtains sharpen its road presence. Flush door handles, trapezoidal exhaust finishers, and a more modernised cabin complete the transformation.

Inside, the Tiggo 8 adopts a revised dashboard layout with dual floating displays, a taller centre console, and a rotary gear selector. Physical climate controls have been replaced by a touchscreen interface, while dual wireless charging pads – including one ventilated unit – cater to modern device usage.

Value proposition

At between RM130k and RM160k, the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 CSH bring PHEV versatility down to a much more accessible price point, even significantly undercutting the J7 PHEV which, at the time of its launch, already seemed like unbelievable value. 

It also seemingly achieves this price point without any visible downside. All changes made to the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 aside from those powertrain-related are positive, from its more refined exterior looks, increased equipment levels, and some measures of interior upgrades.