A Growing Presence in the South African Market
When Chery first entered the South African market a few years ago, it was met with skepticism due to its initial offerings that were perceived as cheap and poorly made. However, the brand has since undergone a significant transformation, gaining a more positive reputation among local consumers. Today, Chery is positioned in the upper half of the sales chart, thanks to its well-built, technologically advanced vehicles that offer excellent value for money.
For budget-conscious drivers, Chery provides a compelling combination of affordability and features. The brand is also deeply involved in various sponsorship initiatives, supplier agreements, and corporate social investment (CSI) projects, which have helped it become an integral part of the South African community.
First Impressions of the Chery Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive
I recently had the opportunity to drive the seven-seater Chery Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive, and it reminded me why the brand has become so popular. From the moment I laid eyes on the vehicle, I was struck by its bold and modern design.
Exterior Design
The front of the car features a distinctive “galaxy full of stars” or “warp speed grille” that adds a unique visual appeal. The Chery logo is prominently displayed, giving the vehicle a premium look. At the rear, the LED light bar connects the taillights, creating a striking illumination effect when the car starts up. The 18-inch alloy wheels add to the overall aesthetic, while the satin silver roof rails enhance the side profile.
Engine Performance
Under the hood, the Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-charged T-GDI engine that delivers 145kW of power and 290Nm of torque. This is paired with a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission that drives the front wheels. While the engine offers strong performance, there is some turbo lag on acceleration, which can be noticeable in certain driving situations.
Interior Comfort and Technology
What truly sets the Tiggo 8 apart is its impressive interior. The cabin is uncluttered and features ample soft-touch surfaces, along with faux brushed Kevlar accents that give it a premium feel. The dashboard is dominated by two connected 12.35-inch screens, forming a large 24.7-inch digital display. This setup includes a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to use once you get accustomed to the interface.
The seats are comfortable, providing excellent support during long drives. On a 250-kilometre trip to Carletonville, the seating proved to be both supportive and spacious. The third-row seats are suitable for adults on shorter trips, and they even come with their own air conditioning vents. The panoramic sunroof added a cozy atmosphere, even on colder days.
Driving Experience
Driving the Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive was a mixed experience. While the car handles well once it’s moving, there is some turbo lag on initial acceleration. The gearshift calibration is not yet perfect but has improved compared to earlier models. Once underway, the car settles into a smooth and comfortable drive.
On highways, the Tiggo 8 is quiet, allowing for normal conversation over Bluetooth without needing to raise your voice. It accelerates well when overtaking slower traffic, though there is some engine noise in the cabin. The adaptive cruise control system had a few quirks, such as turning off when the distance to the car ahead becomes too small and not downshifting quickly enough when the driver ahead moves over.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is another area where Chinese cars often face criticism, but the Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive performed reasonably well. When driven in Eco Mode, the fuel consumption came out to around 8.9l/100km, which is acceptable given the size and weight of the vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Chery Tiggo 8 290T Pro Executive provided a satisfying driving experience. Its seven-seat configuration, extensive feature list, and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for families. With a starting price of R529,900, it offers excellent value for money and is definitely worth considering.
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