The 2025 Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is poised to shake up Australia’s compact SUV market by becoming the nation’s most affordable hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) when it arrives in showrooms in July 2025. Priced from just $29,990 drive-away for the Urban trim and $34,990 for the Ultimate, it undercuts rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid ($30,900 plus on-roads) and GWM Haval Jolion HEV ($32,990 drive-away). With a claimed 1000km driving range, improved fuel economy, and a feature-packed cabin, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid aims to redefine value in the small SUV segment. But does this Chinese newcomer deliver enough to compete with established brands? In this 1500-word review, we’ll explore its pricing, performance, features, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Pricing and Availability: Unbeatable Value?
The Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid enters the Australian market with a razor-sharp price point, making it the cheapest full hybrid SUV available. The two-grade lineup includes:
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Urban: $29,990 drive-away
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Ultimate: $34,990 drive-away
These prices represent a $6,000–$8,000 premium over the petrol-only Tiggo 4 Pro ($23,990–$26,990 drive-away), reflecting the hybrid powertrain’s added cost. Still, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid undercuts key rivals, including the GWM Haval Jolion HEV ($32,990 drive-away), MG ZS Hybrid+ ($33,990 drive-away), and Hyundai Kona Hybrid ($36,500 plus on-roads). Even the Toyota Yaris Cross GX Hybrid, starting at $30,900 before on-road costs, can climb to $33,000–$35,000 drive-away depending on the state.
Chery’s aggressive pricing stems from its strategy to capture budget-conscious buyers, a move that’s already paid off with the petrol Tiggo 4 Pro, which became Australia’s cheapest SUV and the brand’s best-seller, accounting for over half of Chery’s 12,000 sales through May 2025. The hybrid is expected to arrive in July 2025, following the launch of Chery’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids.
Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Performance
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid employs Chery’s proprietary CHS (Chery Super Hybrid) powertrain, a series-parallel hybrid system similar to those in the Toyota Yaris Cross and GWM Haval Jolion. It pairs a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine (71kW/118Nm) with an electric motor (150kW/310Nm) and a 1.83kWh battery, driving the front wheels. Combined system outputs haven’t been officially confirmed, but early estimates suggest around 150kW and 310Nm total, a significant boost over the petrol Tiggo 4’s 108kW/210Nm turbo engine.
Performance is respectable, with a claimed 0–100km/h sprint of 9.4 seconds, 1.2 seconds quicker than the petrol model. Fuel economy is a standout, with a lab-tested 5.4L/100km (WLTC cycle), down from 7.3L/100km for the petrol version. This translates to a 1000km driving range per tank, making it ideal for long-distance commuters or regional buyers. The hybrid system adds about 50kg to the vehicle’s weight, but the improved torque compensates, delivering smooth acceleration in urban settings.
Unlike the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, which are PHEVs with external charging and up to 93km of electric-only range, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid is a non-plug-in HEV, relying on regenerative braking and the petrol engine to charge its battery. This makes it simpler to own for those without home charging, though it lacks the pure-electric driving capability of PHEVs.
Features and Equipment: Packed with Value
While full specifications for the Australian-market Tiggo 4 Hybrid are pending, Chery has indicated that both Urban and Ultimate trims will mirror the petrol model’s generous equipment levels, with minor tweaks to justify the hybrid’s price. Based on the petrol Tiggo 4 Pro, expect the following:
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Urban ($29,990): 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, dual 10.25-inch digital displays (instrument cluster and infotainment), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, keyless entry, push-button start, dual-zone climate control, six-speaker audio, fabric upholstery, and front parking sensors (new for MY26). Safety features include autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist.
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Ultimate ($34,990): Adds 18-inch alloys, power sunroof, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, multi-color ambient lighting, and red-painted brake calipers.
The interior blends modern tech with budget-conscious materials. The dual 10.25-inch screens are crisp and responsive, and the “Hello Chery” voice command system handles tasks like climate control and navigation. However, reviewers note some hard plastics and a piano-black center console that’s prone to scratches. The Ultimate’s faux-leather seats and heated front seats add a premium touch, though they can feel sticky in hot weather.
Space is a strong suit, with a 380-liter boot (comparable to rivals) and enough rear legroom for a 183cm adult to sit comfortably behind a driver of the same height. The cabin’s elevated ride height aids accessibility, making it appealing for older buyers or those with mobility issues.
Design: Subtle Hybrid Touches
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid retains the petrol model’s sleek, modern look, with subtle updates to signal its electrified powertrain. Exterior changes include new hybrid badging, a revised color palette (including “Moon Silver”), and a full-width LED tail-light bar for MY26 models. The front fascia keeps the diamond-patterned grille and vertical daytime running lights, aligning with Chery’s family design language.
Inside, the hybrid swaps out some piano-black trim for brushed metallic finishes and introduces updated infotainment graphics and a revised climate control layout. These tweaks modernize the cabin, though it lacks the premium feel of pricier rivals like the Mazda CX-30 or Toyota Corolla Cross.
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Sportiness
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid’s driving dynamics prioritize comfort and efficiency over sportiness. The hybrid powertrain delivers smooth power in city traffic, with the electric motor providing instant torque for quick starts. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is tuned for fuel savings, though it can feel sluggish during hard acceleration, a common trait in budget hybrids.
The suspension (MacPherson struts front, torsion beam rear) is soft, soaking up urban bumps well but allowing some body roll in corners. Steering is light and vague, ideal for parking but less engaging on twisty roads. Compared to the petrol model, the hybrid’s extra weight is noticeable, but the added power keeps it responsive.
While not a thrill-seeker’s car, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid excels as a practical daily driver, especially for those prioritizing fuel savings and ease of use. Its 1000km range reduces fuel stops, and the hybrid system’s seamless operation makes it a stress-free choice for commuters.
Safety and Reliability
The Tiggo 4 Pro has not yet been tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, a potential concern for safety-conscious buyers. However, it comes equipped with a robust suite of driver-assist tech, including AEB, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist, which should bolster its safety credentials. Chery claims the vehicle meets high safety standards, with eight airbags and a reinforced chassis.
Reliability is less certain. Chery offers a seven-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, seven years of roadside assistance, and capped-price servicing, signaling confidence in its product. Early reviews of the petrol Tiggo 4 Pro praise its build quality, but long-term durability remains unproven given Chery’s short history in Australia. Buyers should weigh the warranty’s peace of mind against the brand’s nascent reputation.
Competition: A Crowded Field
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid faces stiff competition in the small SUV segment, but its price gives it an edge. Key rivals include:
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Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid ($30,900–$35,000 drive-away): Offers Toyota’s proven hybrid tech and better resale value but costs more and has less standard equipment.
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GWM Haval Jolion HEV ($32,990 drive-away): Matches the Tiggo’s value focus but has a higher starting price and less range (800km).
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MG ZS Hybrid+ ($33,990 drive-away): A strong contender with similar pricing, but its 5.8L/100km fuel economy trails the Tiggo’s.
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Hyundai Kona Hybrid ($36,500 plus on-roads): More refined but significantly pricier, with a smaller 348-liter boot.
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid’s closest rival may be the MG 3 Hybrid+ ($27,990 drive-away), a hatchback that’s slightly cheaper but lacks the SUV’s practicality and space. For buyers prioritizing cost and range, the Chery stands out, though its untested safety and reliability may deter some.
Is It Worth It?
The 2025 Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is a compelling proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient SUV. Its $29,990 starting price, 1000km range, and generous equipment list make it a standout in a segment dominated by pricier rivals. The smooth hybrid powertrain, spacious cabin, and modern tech further bolster its appeal, especially for urban commuters and small families.
However, there are caveats. The lack of an ANCAP rating, unproven long-term reliability, and budget-grade interior materials may give pause to buyers accustomed to brands like Toyota or Hyundai. The soft suspension and vague steering also limit its appeal for driving enthusiasts.
For first-time buyers, retirees, or those prioritizing value over brand cachet, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid is a no-brainer. Its seven-year warranty mitigates reliability concerns, and its low running costs suit tight budgets. Test drive it against the Yaris Cross and Jolion to confirm the ride and build quality meet your needs, but at this price, Chery has delivered a game-changer.