The 2026 SA COTY finalists symbolize a various mixture of autos, from inexpensive compact hatchbacks to family-focused way of life SUVs and efficiency SUVs. Shortlisted after intensive consideration by SA COTY’s jury, every automobile was assessed for high quality, security, efficiency and suitability for SA circumstances. They will advance to a rigorous three-day analysis at Zwartkops Raceway in Tshwane subsequent month. The Chery Tiggo 7 CSH is one in every of these finalists.
In a market the place drivers are searching for worth, smart pricing, and a automobile that truly works for actual life, the Chery Tiggo 7 hits a candy spot. It appears like a well-specced bundle that genuinely understands what South African drivers are after: sensible tech that’s simple to dwell with, relatively than options that overcomplicate issues.
The Tiggo 7 CSH is a turbocharged petrol engine working with an electrical motor, producing a mixed 265 kW and 530 Nm of torque. The 18.3 kWh battery permits for as much as 93 kilometres of electric-only driving, making brief commutes and college runs environment friendly and fuel-free. When each energy sources work collectively, the result’s a responsive efficiency. With a mixed driving vary of as much as 1,100 km and gas consumption of 6,3L/100 km, the Tiggo 7 is made for fewer gas stops. The plug-in hybrid is including a brand new dimension to the automobile market in South Africa with its brains.
Safety is one other space the place the Tiggo makes a robust impression. It comes outfitted with eight airbags and a complete suite of driver-assistance techniques that mix lively and passive security measures. The automobile provided reassuring safety throughout a wide range of driving circumstances, whether or not I used to be navigating busy metropolis streets or cruising on the freeway to Pretoria.
Inside the cabin, Chery has centered on delivering a excessive stage of normal specification throughout each trims. Dual digital shows create a contemporary, uncluttered dashboard, whereas wi-fi smartphone connectivity made it a dream to connect with Android Auto. This made my navigation simple to observe because the infotainment display screen is massive, crisp and clear. An eight-speaker Sony sound system added a premium audio expertise, and the 540-degree panoramic digital camera was marvel for parking and low-speed manoeuvres.
A Qualcomm 8155 chipset powers the infotainment system, making certain fast responses and secure efficiency. Intelligent voice management permits drivers to entry key automobile capabilities naturally, decreasing distraction behind the wheel. The key phrases to get the automobile to hearken to me had been “hello Chery”. My favorite was telling Chery to show up the air conditioner. Speaking of which, Chery makes use of an air purifying system that ensures the occupants of the automobile breathe in purified air when the air conditioner is turned on.
The beneficiant baggage space and a versatile cabin structure allow the Tiggo 7 CSH to be a sensible, family-friendly SUV that matches comfortably into on a regular basis life, whereas nonetheless feeling particular.
*Pricing for the Chery Tiggo 7 CSH begins at R599,900.
* Sheryl Goldstuck is basic supervisor of World Wide Worx and editor of GadgetWheels. Follow her on Bluesky on @crazycatbuzz.bsky.social.