Shanghai 2023: Chery Tiggo 9 flagship SUV makes public debut

Chinese automaker Chery has decided to upsize its flagship SUV model range with the new Tiggo 9 which made its public debut at Auto Shanghai 2023. Chery’s new flagship is based on a new T2X platform which underpins most of their successful crossover product offerings in major markets.

Like many Chinese vehicles, the Chery Tiggo 9 draws inspiration from European contemporaries. Design-wise the new Tiggo 9 shares a very similar silhouette with the Range Rover Evoque and Velar from technical partner Land Rover; with the floating roof design being most evident. The front end draws from the larger Mercedes SUVs. The combination somehow works into a stylish package that measures 4,820mm long, 1,930mm wide, and 1,700mm tall with a 2,820mm wheelbase.

The interior is highlighted by a large curved screen which splits the display for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Like the exterior, the interior also draws much inspiration from Mercedes-Benz, not a bad choice as they do have one of the more stylish interiors in the market. What's also evident is that the Chery brand is spelled out on the steering wheel to signify more pride in the brand as opposed to just the logo from models in the past. Chery seems to have worked on the design and ergonomics to look very sophisticated and well thought out.

The infotainment offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it's really about time that these two connectivity options come standard in new vehicle offerings from China. 

The Tiggo 9 will be offered in both five and seven-seater versions. The one on display is a seven-seater in a 2+3+2 configuration. The plush white leather seats felt nice and premium.

The second row gets its own climate control and seat heating function with two charging ports in USB-A and USB-C.

The sidings are very much Merc-inspired as well up to the speaker grille. Like many premium vehicle models, it features a lever-free door as you can open the doors from the inside with a touch of a button.

There is still no confirmation whether the Tiggo 9 will make it to the Philippines, but it should make a very good addition to their lineup and boost the brand's image. Pricing will also be critical but we expect it to put up a good fight with the GAC GS8 when it arrives in our market. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.