The 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid has entered the Australian market with a bold promise: to deliver a feature-packed, seven-seat, plug-in hybrid SUV at a price that undercuts much of the competition. Priced from $45,990 drive-away, this mid-size SUV aims to combine affordability, advanced technology, and impressive efficiency, making it a compelling choice for families on a budget. But does it truly stand out as the best budget seven-seat SUV in a crowded segment that includes rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, and Toyota Kluger? This article dives into the Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid’s specs, performance, features, and value proposition to determine if it earns the top spot.
Overview of the 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid
The Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, launched in Australia in July 2025, represents a significant update to the Tiggo 8 Pro Max. Chery has dropped the “Pro Max” moniker and introduced a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, dubbed the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) system. This move aligns with global trends toward electrification while maintaining affordability. The Tiggo 8 is marketed as a large SUV, though its dimensions (4720mm long, 1860mm wide, 1705mm high, with a 2710mm wheelbase) are comparable to mid-size competitors like the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Available in two trims—Urban ($45,990 drive-away) and Ultimate ($49,990 drive-away)—the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid offers seating for seven, a near-100km electric-only range, and a claimed 1200km combined range, positioning it as a versatile family hauler. But with competitors offering established reputations and alternative powertrains, let’s break down its strengths and weaknesses.
Powertrain and Performance
The Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (105kW/215Nm) with a single electric motor (150kW/310Nm) and an 18.3kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery. Power is delivered through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) to the front wheels, with no all-wheel-drive option available. While Chery hasn’t disclosed combined output figures for Australia, a similar setup in the Jaecoo J7 produces 255kW and 525Nm, suggesting robust performance for a family SUV.
The standout feature is the electric range: up to 90km (WLTP) or 106km (NEDC), allowing most daily commutes to be emissions-free. With 40kW fast-charging, the battery can recharge from 30% to 80% in about 20 minutes, making it practical for longer trips. The combined range of 1200km, when using both electric and petrol power, is impressive, though real-world figures may vary based on driving conditions. Chery claims fuel economy of 1.0L/100km in hybrid mode, a significant improvement over the 8.1–8.7L/100km of the previous 2.0-litre turbo-petrol Tiggo 8 Pro Max.
Compared to rivals, the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid’s efficiency is a strong selling point. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers a 55–84km electric range but starts at $57,290 before on-road costs, while the Toyota Kluger’s hybrid (non-plug-in) achieves 5.6L/100km but lacks electric-only capability. The Kia Sorento Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid also trail in electric range and start at higher price points ($50,880 and $53,000, respectively, before on-roads). However, the Tiggo 8’s front-wheel-drive configuration may limit its appeal for buyers seeking all-wheel-drive for light off-road use.
Driving dynamics are less clear, as the Super Hybrid hasn’t been extensively reviewed yet. The non-hybrid Tiggo 8 Pro Max was praised for a comfortable ride but criticized for a hesitant dual-clutch transmission and average fuel efficiency. The new DHT should improve smoothness and efficiency, but real-world testing is needed to confirm handling and refinement against rivals like the Outlander, which offers sharper dynamics.
Interior and Space
The Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is designed with family practicality in mind. Its seven-seat layout includes a second row with ample headroom, legroom, and toe-room, though the third row is tighter, better suited for children or occasional use. At 5’11”, an adult can fit in the third row if the second row slides forward, but comfort is limited. Boot space is a highlight: 117L with all seats up, 479L with the third row folded, and over 1000L with the second row down, though Chery doesn’t provide an exact figure for the latter. This is competitive with the Outlander (461L with third row folded) and Kluger (552L). A full-sized spare wheel is a welcome inclusion, rare in this segment.
The interior feels premium for the price, with soft-touch plastics, leatherette upholstery, and tasteful trim. Standard features across both trims include dual 12.3-inch HD LCD screens (instrument cluster and infotainment), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charger, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The Ultimate trim adds a panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker Sony sound system, ventilated front seats, a massaging driver’s seat, and privacy glass. However, the absence of in-built satellite navigation and digital radio may disappoint some buyers, and wireless smartphone mirroring has been reported as occasionally unreliable in other Chery models.
Compared to rivals, the Tiggo 8’s tech suite is generous. The Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento offer similar features but at a higher cost, while the Mitsubishi Outlander includes navigation and a more refined infotainment system. The Toyota Kluger’s interior feels dated by comparison, though its build quality is proven. The Tiggo 8’s “Hello Chery” voice assistant and air quality system (automatically engaging recirculation at high PM2.5 levels) add modern touches, but minor quirks, like scratchy door card materials in lower trims, may detract from the premium feel.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a strong suit for the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, building on the non-hybrid’s five-star ANCAP rating (2023–25 criteria). It includes 10 airbags (including driver’s knee and front-center), autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian/cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera. The Ultimate trim adds a head-up display and driver monitoring system, though the latter was criticized in the non-hybrid for being overbearing.
Rivals like the Outlander and Santa Fe also carry five-star ratings, but the Tiggo 8’s standard safety suite is more comprehensive than the base Kluger’s. The inclusion of rear air vents, USB ports, and a fold-down armrest with cupholders enhances second-row comfort, a rarity in budget SUVs. However, the third row lacks dedicated air vents in the Urban trim, which could be a drawback for families.
Pricing and Value
At $45,990 (Urban) and $49,990 (Ultimate) drive-away, the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid undercuts most seven-seat PHEV and hybrid competitors. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV starts at $57,290 before on-roads, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid at $53,000, and the Kia Sorento Hybrid at $50,880. The Toyota Kluger Hybrid, a non-plug-in, starts at $60,920. Even non-hybrid seven-seaters like the Nissan Pathfinder ($59,945) and Honda CR-V ($53,900) are pricier. The LDV D90 petrol (from $34,990 drive-away for ABN holders) is cheaper but lacks hybrid efficiency and modern tech.
Chery sweetens the deal with a seven-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, seven-year capped-price servicing, and up to seven years of roadside assistance (renewed annually with dealer servicing). This matches or exceeds warranties from Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi, though Toyota’s reputation for reliability remains a benchmark. The Tiggo 8’s running costs are low, thanks to its 1.0L/100km fuel economy and electric range, though it requires 95-octane fuel, which is pricier than regular unleaded used by some rivals.
Competition and Drawbacks
The Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid faces stiff competition:
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Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Offers all-wheel drive and a 55–84km electric range but is pricier and less feature-rich at base levels.
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Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: Provides a premium interior and all-wheel drive but lacks plug-in capability and starts at a higher price.
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Kia Sorento Hybrid: Similar to the Santa Fe, with strong resale value but no electric-only range.
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Toyota Kluger Hybrid: Reliable and spacious but lacks plug-in functionality and modern tech at base trims.
Drawbacks include the Tiggo 8’s unproven long-term reliability, as Chery is still rebuilding its reputation in Australia after a hiatus. Resale value may be lower than established brands like Toyota or Hyundai, and the lack of all-wheel drive could deter buyers needing versatility. The third row’s limited space and the absence of navigation or digital radio are minor letdowns. Additionally, while the non-hybrid Tiggo 8 was criticized for a laggy transmission and average fuel efficiency, the Super Hybrid’s new DHT should address these, though real-world reviews are pending.
Is It the Best Budget 7-Seat SUV?
The 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid makes a strong case as the best budget seven-seat SUV for 2025. Its sub-$50,000 price, near-100km electric range, and 1200km combined range offer unmatched efficiency for the cost. The generous standard features, premium interior, and comprehensive safety suite rival pricier competitors, while the seven-year warranty provides peace of mind. For families prioritizing affordability and low running costs, the Tiggo 8 is hard to beat, especially for urban commuters who can leverage its electric range.
However, it’s not perfect. The lack of all-wheel drive, cramped third row, and unproven long-term reliability may give pause, especially compared to trusted brands like Toyota or Mitsubishi. The Outlander PHEV offers better dynamics and all-wheel drive, while the Santa Fe and Sorento provide more spacious third rows and stronger resale value. If your priority is a balance of price, efficiency, and features for city driving, the Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is a top contender. For those needing all-wheel drive or maximum third-row comfort, alternatives like the Outlander or Santa Fe may edge it out.
In Summary
The 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is a game-changer in the budget seven-seat SUV segment, offering plug-in hybrid efficiency, a tech-laden interior, and aggressive pricing that undercuts established rivals. Its 90km electric range, 1200km combined range, and comprehensive features make it a compelling choice for cost-conscious families. While it lacks all-wheel drive and has a tighter third row, its value proposition is unmatched. Whether it’s the best depends on your priorities—efficiency and affordability favor the Tiggo 8, but buyers seeking proven reliability or off-road capability may look elsewhere. Test drive one at a Chery dealership or visit www.cherymotor.com.au for more details.