The Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is making waves in Australia as one of the most affordable full hybrid SUVs on the market. Priced from under $30,000 drive-away, it undercuts established rivals like the Toyota Yaris Hybrid and GWM Haval Jolion HEV. But is this Chinese crossover a smart buy, or just a cheap compromise?
A Rising Star in the Small SUV Segment
The Tiggo 4 has quickly become a top-three seller in Australia’s competitive small SUV market. Chery is capitalizing on the growing demand for hybrid vehicles – over 161,000 hybrids have been sold in Australia this year alone. The Tiggo 4 Hybrid aims to disrupt the segment with aggressive pricing and a feature-packed interior.
Inside the Tiggo 4 Hybrid: Premium Feel on a Budget
Step inside, and you’ll be surprised by the Tiggo 4’s interior quality. Glossy screens, leather-look surfaces, and contrast stitching give it a more upscale feel than many rivals in its price bracket. While some materials aren’t as premium as they appear, the overall impression is impressive for a budget SUV.
The driver and passenger sit high, providing a commanding view of the road. The front seats are comfortable, though taller drivers may find the under-thigh support lacking. The dual 10.25-inch displays are clear but can feel a little slow to respond.
Rear occupants benefit from generous headroom and legroom, making the Tiggo 4 a practical family vehicle. The 470-liter boot is also spacious, though it includes a space-saver spare wheel.
Powertrain and Performance: A Hybrid Compromise?
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid combines a 1.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack. While it’s a full hybrid, its real-world fuel efficiency isn’t as impressive as some rivals. Expect around 5.5 to 6.0 L/100km in mixed driving, which is better than the petrol-only version but still lags behind the Toyota Yaris Hybrid.
The hybrid powertrain delivers a smoother, more responsive driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, making acceleration feel more effortless. However, the steering is vague and the body leans in corners, making it less engaging to drive.
Safety and Features: Packed for the Price
The Tiggo 4 Hybrid comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
The Ultimate trim adds features like a surround-view camera, leatherette upholstery, and a power sunroof.
Running Costs: Affordable Ownership
Chery offers a seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty and capped-price servicing. The first five services are capped at $299 each, making ownership affordable.
The Verdict: A Smart Buy for Value-Seekers?
The Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is a compelling option for buyers who prioritize value. It offers a well-equipped interior, a smooth hybrid powertrain, and affordable running costs.
However, it’s not without compromises. The fuel efficiency isn’t class-leading, and the driving experience isn’t as engaging as some rivals.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hybrid SUV that delivers a lot of features for the price, the Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is worth considering. But if you prioritize refinement and driving dynamics, you may want to look elsewhere
