Chery South Africa is bolstering its Tiggo 8 family with the arrival of the new Tiggo 8 CSH Hybrid, marking a significant step in the brand's local electrification strategy. This seven-seater hybrid SUV, following the Tiggo Cross CSH and Tiggo 7 Plug-in Hybrid, offers South African motorists expanded powertrain choices catering to diverse lifestyles and budgets. The Tiggo 8 CSH promises an all-electric driving range of up to 90 km and a substantial total combined range reaching approximately 1 200 km.
Powering the Tiggo 8 CSH is a combination of a 1,5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, generating a combined system output of 255 kW and 525 Nm of torque. This power is channelled to the front wheels via Chery's Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), with drivers able to select Eco, Normal or Sport modes to suit conditions. An 18,3 kWh battery pack enables the electric range, contributing to a low combined fuel consumption figure of 1,3 l/100 km (or 5,2 l/100 km when battery charge falls below 30%), alongside CO? emissions rated at only 30 g/km.
A great selection of other Chery Tiggo Pro 8 models can be found right here - just click
The battery underwent rigorous testing in Indonesia, facing high heat, humidity, heavy rainfall and rough roads. The IP68-rated sealing proved capable of enduring submersion in one metre of water for over 48 hours. The battery also operates effectively across a wide temperature spectrum, from -35°C to 60°C. Safety features include a high-strength steel underguard, advanced thermal management and an automatic power cutoff system triggered within milliseconds in a collision.
Visually, the Tiggo 8 CSH Hybrid retains the core design of its combustion-engine sibling but gains distinctive elements including a unique diamond-pattern grille, a sportier front bumper and standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Automatic LED headlights further enhance its presence.
Crunch the numbers by using this handy Finance Calculator
Exclusively offered in the well-equipped Apex trim, the Tiggo 8 CSH prioritises space, comfort and convenience for families. The cabin features a 2+3+2 seating layout for seven occupants, upholstered in soft black synthetic leather. Front occupants benefit from heated and ventilated seats with electric adjustment (six-way for the driver including lumbar, four-way for the passenger). The front passenger enjoys the added luxury of the ‘Queen Seat’ with a built-in massage function. Amenities include a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and an electric tailgate.
Practicality is a key focus. With the third row folded, luggage capacity is 494 litres. Folding the 60/40-split second row expands this to 1 930 litres. Even with all seven seats in use, 117 litres of boot space remains.
The vehicle includes roof rails, second-row air vents, multiple cupholders (front and second row), USB ports (front: one standard + Type-C, second row: two standard + Type-C), and a front 12-volt outlet.
We’ve got you covered – for the best insurance deal click here
Technology is centred around a large 15,6-inch LCD touchscreen supporting Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A premium 12-speaker Sony sound system delivers audio, while an Intelligent Voice Command system (activated by ‘Hello Chery’) allows hands-free control. A head-up display projects key information onto the windscreen.
Safety is comprehensive, featuring 10 crash bags (including front, side, curtain, centre, driver's knee and second-row curtain), ISOFIX mounts and child safety locks. Driver assistance systems include hill-start assist, electronic stability control, traction control, brake assis, and a driver monitoring system. Parking is aided by a 540-degree camera, front and rear sensors, and a reverse camera. Advanced features encompass Lane Departure Warning/Prevention, Traffic Jam Assistance, Intelligent High Beam Control, Adaptive Cruise, Front Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Emergency Lane Keeping, Intelligent Speed Assistance, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Door Opening Warning.
"The Tiggo 8 CSH Hybrid is designed to give South African families a smarter, more efficient way to get around without compromising on space or safety," says Verene Petersen, National Brand & Marketing Manager at Chery South Africa. "We’ve packed it with features that make every journey comfortable and stress-free, whether it’s the daily school run or a weekend getaway. It’s an exciting step forward for us as we continue to bring more electrified options to drivers who want versatility and peace of mind."
The Chery Tiggo 8 CSH Hybrid is priced from R729 900. It comes standard with Chery's 7-year/90 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, a 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (transferable to a second owner if purchased from a Cherished pre-owned dealership), and a 10-year/unlimited kilometre battery warranty.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly CHANGECARS
