The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, recognized as Australia’s most budget-friendly small SUV, is set to add a hybrid powertrain to its lineup as the Chinese automaker prepares to unveil a host of electrified models in the region.

This announcement follows Chery Australia’s recent clarification on the anticipated timelines for the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, which are expected to debut in Australian showrooms later this year.

“In terms of hybrids, our primary focus for 2025 will be on new energy vehicles. We are planning to launch three new hybrid variants: the Tiggo 4 HEV and the Tiggo 7 and 8 PHEVs,” a representative from Chery Australia stated in a conversation with CarExpert.

“While we have yet to confirm the exact timing, we anticipate a mid-year rollout.”

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The Tiggo 4 Pro, which debuted in October 2024, is currently powered exclusively by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 108kW and 210Nm of torque via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). As the most affordable SUV in Australia, its pricing range is between $23,990 and $26,990 drive-away, significantly undercutting many rival compact SUVs and smaller hatchbacks like the MG 3 and Suzuki Swift Hybrid.

Little is known about the specifics of the hybrid powertrain for the Tiggo 4 Pro as of yet, although Chery could potentially pursue a couple of different configurations. One possibility is a comprehensive hybrid system akin to the offerings from industry leaders such as Hyundai and Toyota. Notably, Chery Australia has described the forthcoming version of the Tiggo 4 Pro as an ‘HEV,’ a term typically associated with full-hybrid models, similar to Toyota’s Yaris Cross.

Alternatively, the vehicle could feature a mild-hybrid setup that is currently available in some international markets. In the Philippines—where the Tiggo 4 Pro is marketed as the Tiggo 5x Pro—an electrified version was unveiled in April 2023, introducing a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that does not enable electric-only driving, according to local reports.

Looking at competitors, the MG ZS Hybrid+, which arrived in Australia in November 2023, is priced between $33,990 and $36,990 drive-away. In comparison, the non-hybrid MG ZST starts at $25,990 drive-away, providing another reference point for potential buyers.

Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid versions of the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, announced for release in May 2024, now have an expected delivery window. These variants, marketed externally as the ‘e+’ models, will feature a robust 240kW/545Nm PHEV powertrain, offering a claimed WLTC electric-only range of 80 kilometers powered by a 19.27kWh lithium battery.

These new offerings will also be equipped with a Direct Hybrid Transmission (DHT) featuring three physical gears and operational modes, coupled with dual electric motors and a hybrid-centric 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The Tiggo 7 Pro e+ will compete against the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV, while the Tiggo 8 Pro’s rival will include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BYD Sealion 6.

Chery anticipates that the new PHEV versions of the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro will not see substantial price hikes over current petrol variants, which retail for $39,990 drive-away and $41,990 drive-away, respectively. According to Lucas Harris, managing director of Chery Australia, the company aims to eliminate barriers such as cost and availability that have hampered PHEV uptake in the past. “The initial response has been limited due to high prices and scarce supply; our approach will differ significantly,” he noted.

“We aim to provide a compelling value proposition without supply constraints, enabling us to communicate how these vehicles can enhance consumer lifestyles.”

For further insights, visit: Chery Tiggo 7 Pro to lead PHEV push in Australia | Chery Australia on succeeding with plug-in hybrids where others have fallen short.

Source:www.carexpert.com.au