Is the Tiggo 7 PRO able to fend of the popularity of the Omoda 5
So, we have already seen the sales success of the Tiggo 8 PRO (the direct rival to the Proton X90), now lets see if the direct rival to the Proton X70, this Tiggo 7 PRO will give Proton dealers some sleepless nights or not.
First let’s look at the exterior. The styling is eye-catching, it looks classy and yet rugged at the same time. This SUV was teased to the media in January 2024 and it was clear that they were targeting buyers of the Proton X70 facelift and also X70 current owners looking for a replacement after 5 to 6 years of ownership.
The Tiggo 7 PRO holds its own in the styling and handling departments however with the avant-garde styling of the OMODA 5 sitting in the same showroom, it will be tough choice for Malaysians visiting a Chery showroom.
Sharp chiselled lines with muscular wheel arches show for a handsome rugged all terrain all-purpose type vehicle and then there is a softer side to the Tiggo when you get behind the wheel and find a high appointed luxurious interior that is easy to get used behind the wheel.
Interior
The cabin of this Tiggo looks and feels upscale, quiet, and mature, with tasteful metallic trim and tighter integration of controls and fixtures. The front seats have well set cushions that give good thigh support. The driver gets an electric seat for added comfort. Side bolsters do their job without being overly confining. Lumbar and height adjustment offer sufficient range to accommodate almost every body shape and dimension for any sized driver.
Sight lines from the driver’s seat are good most ways around. The front corners are in view, easing parking and manoeuvres in close quarters.
The fit and finish in the cabin impressed us. The 12.3-inch displays for its digital instrument cluster and central infotainment screen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration) is easy to learn and use.
There is wireless 50W ultra-fast charging pad with built-in active cooling system. This SUV also features a configurable 64 colour ambient lighting system with a mode that responds to the music being played from the 8-speaker Sony sound system, as well as panoramic sunroof and ventilation for its electrically adjustable front seats
Chassis
The Tiggo suspension has been tuned for more precise handling without sacrificing ride comfort. Fill up all seats and take a drive along any of Klang Valley roads and there will be little complaining from passengers as the ride comfort is good.
Safety Features
As with all Chery models, the new Tiggo also features a state-of-the-art safety system that offers optimal driving stability. There are 16 active driver aids as part of Chery’s ADAS 2.5 suite. This is on par or better with any rival in this price segment.
Drive
There is no denying the power delivery of this turbo fed Tiggo 7. From idle its quick and very smooth in sending the power to its wheels. Chery have decided to offer this SUV in 2-wheel drive format and it works very well. This engine is made in-house by Chery and develops an impressive 197PS and 290Nm of torque. It’s paired to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox that delivers good power delivery and a possible fuel consumption of 7L/100km.
The SUV feels nimble and rides very well, almost like a well sorted sedan. Pitch and roll around corners is minimal with the firmly damped suspension and right up to highway speeds there is no wind noise impending the cabin (insulation is very good).
Warranty
Chery has been quite gung-ho about offering a rather comprehensive after-sales package as with the Tiggo 7 Pro. It comes with a 7 year/150,000 km warranty, a 7 year/150,000 km 24/7 unlimited towing service as well as a 5-year free service deal (free labour charge for 5 alternate service).
Colours Available
The Tiggo 7 Pro will be offered in four colour combinations locally: Bloodstone Red with Black Roof, Carbon Black, Vanilla Blue and Khaki White with Black Roof.
Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder 16V Turbo
Displacement: 1598cc
Transmission: 7-speed Dual Clutch Automatic
Max power: 197PS
Max torque: 290Nm
Top Speed: 205km/h
0-100km/h: 9.5 seconds
Selling Price: RM123,800
