The Chinese carmaker Chery is rapidly expanding its footprint in the UK, and the arrival of the new Tiggo 9 PHEV marks a major step forward. Priced from £43,105, this large seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV blends exceptional performance, long electric range, and premium equipment — all while undercutting many established European rivals.
As one of the most powerful and longest-range PHEVs currently available in the UK, the Tiggo 9 sets a bold new benchmark for value and technology in the family SUV segment.
Design and Positioning
The Chery Tiggo 9 is designed to appeal to drivers who want luxury, practicality, and efficiency in one package. Positioned above the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, it serves as the brand’s new flagship SUV for the UK market.
Despite its size and seven-seat configuration, the Tiggo 9’s design remains elegant and aerodynamic. A bold grille, slim LED lighting, and sculpted lines give it a premium road presence, while 20-inch alloy wheels and a smooth silhouette underline its upscale intent.
Inside, the SUV offers three rows of seating, making it one of the few plug-in hybrids in this price range capable of accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably.
Powertrain and Performance
The Tiggo 9 is powered by Chery’s latest Super Hybrid drivetrain, which combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors and a starter-generator integrated into the gearbox.
This setup delivers a remarkable 422 bhp and 428 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from 0–62 mph in just 5.4 seconds — a figure that places it among the quickest PHEVs in its class.
This blend of performance and efficiency is a major selling point for the Tiggo 9, outpacing traditional competitors in both acceleration and power delivery. Drivers can enjoy seamless transitions between electric and hybrid modes, with instant torque available when needed.
Battery and Range
The heart of the Tiggo 9’s appeal lies in its long electric range. With a 34.5 kWh battery, it can travel up to 91 miles on electric power alone (WLTP) — a range that surpasses most plug-in hybrids currently available in the UK market.
This range not only eclipses smaller competitors but even rivals the range of some dedicated electric vehicles, making it one of the most versatile PHEVs for long-distance drivers.
Charging performance is equally impressive. The Tiggo 9 supports 71 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 30–80% recharge in just 18 minutes — faster than many traditional hybrids and close to fully electric models.
For everyday use, the battery can also be charged using standard AC home chargers, making it suitable for both urban commutes and extended family trips.
Interior: Premium, Spacious, and Tech-Focused
Step inside, and the Tiggo 9 Summit edition immediately feels upmarket. The cabin combines soft-touch materials, ambient LED lighting, and a modern minimalist design.
A 15.6-inch central touchscreen sits alongside a 10.25-inch digital driver display, creating a dual-screen layout that’s both intuitive and futuristic. Wireless smartphone mirroring is supported, along with wireless charging pads and advanced voice control.
The seating experience rivals that of far more expensive European SUVs. The front seats are heated, ventilated, and offer massage functions, while even the second-row seats feature heating and ventilation — a rarity in this price category.
High-quality materials such as synthetic leather, brushed aluminum trim, and contrast stitching give the cabin a distinctly premium feel. The spacious third row can comfortably fit adults for shorter journeys or serve as ideal space for children and luggage flexibility.
Infotainment and Comfort Features
The tech package in the Tiggo 9 is nothing short of impressive. A 14-speaker Sony audio system provides rich, immersive sound, while dual-zone climate control and customizable ambient lighting enhance cabin comfort.
The infotainment system’s interface is fluid and easy to navigate, offering access to navigation, vehicle settings, and media through clear menus. The system also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring that software and features remain current throughout ownership.
Driving Experience and Ride Quality
Chery has ensured that the Tiggo 9 doesn’t just perform on paper — it delivers on the road. The SUV has been fine-tuned for UK and European conditions at Chery’s German R&D centre.
This localized engineering has resulted in a balanced suspension setup that provides both stability and comfort. The ride feels composed over rough British roads, while the handling remains confident during high-speed driving.
Despite its large size, the Tiggo 9 feels agile thanks to its electric torque distribution and responsive steering. The smooth integration of regenerative braking and traditional braking further enhances driving comfort.
In electric-only mode, the cabin is nearly silent, and the vehicle glides effortlessly, ideal for city commutes. When the petrol engine activates, it does so quietly, maintaining the car’s refined nature.
Equipment and Specification
Chery simplifies the buying experience by offering the Tiggo 9 in a single, fully loaded “Summit” trim. Standard features include:
- Heated and ventilated seats (front and rear)
- Front-seat massage function
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- 14-speaker Sony sound system
- Dual-zone climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Wireless phone charger
- Full suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking come as standard.
Value Proposition and Competitors
At £43,105, the Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV undercuts several major rivals, including plug-in versions of the Volkswagen Tayron, Kia Sorento, and Hyundai Santa Fe. Despite its lower price, it offers more power, longer range, and richer equipment.
For families seeking a seven-seat SUV that doesn’t compromise on performance or electric capability, the Tiggo 9 presents an attractive alternative to traditional premium brands.
It also positions Chery as a serious contender in the UK’s hybrid SUV space, building on the momentum of the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, which already introduced British buyers to the brand earlier this year.
UK Launch and Availability
Deliveries for the Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV begin in December, just in time for the 2025 model year. Early feedback from dealerships indicates strong interest in the model’s combination of affordability and luxury.
Chery also plans to expand its UK portfolio in 2025 with the smaller Tiggo 4, a compact crossover that will target entry-level buyers seeking affordable petrol or hybrid options.
Conclusion
The Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV marks an impressive milestone for the brand in the UK. With its 422 bhp hybrid system, 91-mile electric range, luxurious interior, and competitive price, it delivers a blend of performance, practicality, and value that’s hard to ignore.
For families and professionals seeking an eco-friendly seven-seater that feels premium yet affordable, the Tiggo 9 stands out as one of the most well-rounded hybrid SUVs of its kind.
As Chery continues to expand across Europe, the Tiggo 9 could very well redefine how British buyers view modern hybrids — combining technology, comfort, and sustainability at a price that challenges convention.
