Chery South Africa has confirmed its new premium SUV brand, Lepas, will make its official debut in the local market during 2026. The brand, which first appeared globally in April 2025, aims to present a fresh perspective on premium SUVs, emphasising elegant design, expressive character and alignment with a contemporary lifestyle.
Targeting younger, style-conscious drivers looking beyond basic mobility, Lepas integrates design-focused thinking with advanced technology. The vehicles are intended to reflect individuality, modern luxury, and a sense of purpose.
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To spearhead the introduction of Lepas locally, Chery South Africa has appointed Letitia Herold as the National Brand & Marketing Manager and she says: "We’re speaking to a generation that wants more than just a car - they want an experience that reflects who they are. Lepas is a brand that celebrates modern success, personal expression, and confidence on every journey."
The Lepas L8, unveiled earlier this year, exemplifies the brand's direction. It features sculpted exterior lines drawing inspiration from a leopard's stance, a spacious interior with high-quality trim, and incorporates the latest driver-assist technologies. Lepas plans to expand its offering across multiple vehicle segments, developing a versatile lineup suited to various lifestyles, from family needs to executive requirements.
The name Lepas itself combines ‘leap’ and ‘passion’, representing movement, vitality, and expressive energy – an identity Herold will be responsible for establishing on South African roads.
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Alongside the Lepas announcement, Chery South Africa is promoting the practical benefits of its existing Tiggo Cross HEV, a hybrid compact SUV. This model combines a bold design with real-world efficiency and notable features.
The Tiggo Cross HEV pairs a 1,5-litre petrol engine with a dedicated hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 150 kW and 310 Nm. This setup aims for smooth, responsive performance and strong acceleration. Its key advantage is fuel efficiency, with consumption rated at just 5,4 l/100 km under mixed driving conditions, requiring no plug-in charging. The electric motor assists acceleration for immediate response, contributing to a quieter and smoother drive.
Styling includes a bold front grille, LED lighting, and sleek lines. Inside, the cabin offers a blend of sporty elements and premium finishes. Two trim levels are available: Comfort and Elite. Both feature a strong standard specification including a dual-screen setup, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, a wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports.
The Elite trim adds extras like a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, an upgraded Sony sound system, and ambient lighting.
The cabin prioritises comfort and practicality with quality materials, supportive seats, clever storage solutions, and generous rear legroom including charging ports. Safety features are comprehensive across both trims, including electronic stability control and six crash bags (Comfort), with the Elite adding a seventh bag plus adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera.
Despite its compact size, the Tiggo Cross HEV offers practical boot space for shopping or luggage, with folding rear seats for larger items. Ownership is supported by a five-year/150 000 km warranty, a 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty, and a five-year/60 000 km service plan.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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