If you’re in the market for a seven-seater SUV that blends bold design, modern tech, and family-friendly practicality, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro might just be the hidden gem you’ve been waiting for. As the largest SUV from the Chinese automaker available in Malaysia, the Tiggo 8 Pro stands out not only for its commanding presence but also for its surprisingly premium features and competitive price tag. While Chery’s name might not have dominated the local roads in the past, this latest model signals a serious contender in the SUV segment, promising comfort, power, and a touch of luxury—all for under RM160,000. So, does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
Let’s start with the fundamentals. It’s priced at RM159,800 and currently comes in just one variant. Your only decision is whether you want it in black or white, which is actually refreshing, since fewer choices can sometimes make life easier.
Since there’s only one variant available, the TIGGO 8 PRO is fully equipped with all the features you’d expect in a premium SUV. Its exterior design is striking, featuring a large Geometric Matrix diamond grille that’s adorned with chromed diamond-shaped elements, varying in size and arranged to give a sense of perspective to the front end. Flanking this grille are sleek LED headlamps with DRLs, and the aggressive look is completed by slats at the lower part of the bumper. To top it off, the illuminated logo adds a touch of class when the lights come on.
At the rear, the SUV boasts a light bar that spans across the width of the vehicle, linking the LED rear lights, which even put on a light show as you approach—a nice welcome feature. The side steps also extend out automatically when you open the doors, making for a grand entrance.
Inside, Chery has packed the TIGGO 8 PRO with some of its best comforts. Both front seats are power-adjustable, and they come with cooling vents, which are a godsend on sweltering days. The seats, upholstered in leatherette, are plush and soft, and the armrests—both at the doors and center console—are also well-cushioned. Bonus: the center armrest is air-conditioned!
In terms of overall cabin quality, the interior feels premium. Every surface you touch is either wrapped in leatherette or has a matte finish, and the switchgear is thoughtfully designed, providing just the right amount of resistance for a tactile feel. The interior design is far from the spartan look you sometimes find in more expensive vehicles. A gray wood-like panel contrasts nicely with the piano black borders and brown leatherette, creating a cohesive and upscale look. Above it all is a panoramic sunroof that you can partially open to let in some natural light.
The focal point of the cabin is the large curved panel that houses two screens. The main display controls everything from entertainment to air-conditioning, camera views, navigation, and vehicle settings. While the touchscreen is the primary interface, you also get physical buttons around the gear stalk and a flat touch panel for the climate controls. In front of the driver, there’s another screen that provides key driving information like speed, RPM, fuel consumption, and even navigation.
For your audio needs, the TIGGO 8 PRO comes with a Sony Premium Audio System with eight speakers. You also won’t be short on charging options—there are two USB ports and two USB-C ports, both in the front and rear, plus a wireless charging pad for compatible devices.
Space-wise, the TIGGO 8 PRO offers excellent legroom for rear passengers, and the flat floor in the second row adds to their comfort. However, like most seven-seater SUVs in this price range, the third-row seats are best suited for children. Folding them down provides a larger cargo area, though the seats don’t lie completely flat, creating a slight slope.
Now, let’s address some of the drawbacks. The third-row seats don’t fold entirely flat, which could be inconvenient when loading cargo. Additionally, the reverse cameras aren’t perfectly aligned, making it easy to lose sight of objects. The air-con controls, located just below the touchscreen, are also easy to accidentally activate while reaching for other controls. Lastly, the large rotary dial seems underutilized—while it only changes drive modes, it could serve a more functional purpose, like interfacing with the media system.
The Tiggo’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 256hp and 390Nm of torque, paired with the 7-speed DCT, delivering an energetic drive. Chery claims a 0-100 kph time of 8.2 seconds, and the SUV often feels quicker than that. In Sports mode, the engine holds higher revs before upshifting, enhancing the driving experience.
Speaking of drive modes, there are three to choose from: ECO, Normal, and Sports. While the differences between ECO and Normal are subtle, switching to Sports mode do add life to the SUV.
On highways, the TIGGO 8 PRO feels stable and comfortable. The suspension is well-tuned to handle bumps and imperfections on the road, but body roll is inevitable due to the SUV’s size and height. That said, the biggest shortcoming lies in the steering. It feels vague, with noticeable free play, particularly at higher speeds. While the SUV provides some feedback, it’s not always easy to tell exactly where the wheels are pointed, especially when navigating turns.
Safety-wise, the TIGGO 8 PRO is well-equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, front collision warning, and autonomous emergency braking. These features work as intended, especially the Front Collision Warning, ensuring that you stay safe on the road.
In conclusion, the CHERY TIGGO 8 PRO still has some rough edges, particularly in its handling and steering. However, with its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and value-packed price, it offers a solid option in the seven-seater SUV market. It may not be the sportiest SUV, but if you’re looking for a family car that delivers comfort and convenience while covering long distances, the TIGGO 8 PRO is definitely worth considering.
