Chery Tiggo 8 PLUS New Energy

Model Overview

The Chery Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is a plug-in hybrid mid-size SUV under Chery Automobile, serving as the electrified branch of the Tiggo 8 PLUS family. On 10 September 2024, the all-new Tiggo 8 PLUS petrol and hybrid dual-lineup made its global debut in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, with the C-DM hybrid variant launched simultaneously. The 2025 Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is offered in 3 variants, featuring five- and seven-seater seating configurations, with official guide prices ranging from RM129,900 to RM155,900. Positioned as a "5+2-seater dynamic and premium SUV", the new model is powered by Chery's Kunpeng Super Hybrid technology. Its primary rivals in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment include the BYD Song PLUS DM-i and Landian E5.

Design Language

In terms of exterior styling, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM adopts Chery's "Art in motion" design philosophy, evolving from Natural Power Aesthetics into a bolder Leopard Power aesthetic. Up front, it features an imposing tooth-blade matrix grille with an intricate X-shaped internal pattern, flanked by thick chrome garnishes for an authoritative road presence. The split-headlight setup features slim upper daytime running light (DRL) strips that illuminate with a distinct V-shaped signature, delivering both a high-tech vibe and sculpted depth. The side profile displays sleek, flowing character lines with dual waistlines stretching from the front and rear lamp clusters, complemented by flush pop-out door handles and dual-tone multi-spoke alloy wheels for a clean, athletic stance. At the rear, a wide full-width smoked LED taillight bar spans the tailgate, housing the "CHERY" brand lettering at its centre. The SUV measures 4,715 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,747 mm tall (1,745 mm on selected variants), with a 2,710 mm wheelbase. Five exterior paint options are available: Graphite Black, Pearl White, Bamboo Grey, Emerald Green, and Galaxy Blue.

Inside, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM features a "Cloud Lounge" wraparound cockpit design accentuated by stylish wood-grain trim inserts, offering brown and black interior colour options. Premium soft-touch materials cover over 78% of the cabin surfaces. Taking centre stage on the dashboard is a digital cockpit setup comprising a 12.3-inch floating fully digital instrument cluster paired with a 15.6-inch 2.5K floating infotainment touchscreen. Gear selection is handled via an electronic steering column stalk.

Powertrain and Performance

Powering the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is Chery's Kunpeng Super Hybrid system, featuring a powertrain composed of a fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5-litre TGDI dedicated hybrid engine and a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. The petrol engine delivers a maximum output of 115 kW (approx. 156 PS) and 220 Nm of peak torque, boasting a thermal efficiency of 44.5%. The electric motor generates 150 kW (approx. 204 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. Total system output reaches 265 kW (approx. 360 PS) with a combined torque of 530–565 Nm. Power is sent through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) available in 1-speed or 3-speed configurations. The official 0–100 km/h century sprint is clocked at 7 seconds, with a top speed of 175 km/h.

In terms of range, the vehicle is fitted with an 18.66 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack supplied by CALB. It delivers a pure electric driving range of 116 km under CLTC standards and 90 km under WLTC. On DC fast charging, a 30% to 80% state of charge (SoC) top-up takes just 19 minutes. The WLTC combined fuel consumption is rated at a frugal 1.3 L/100 km, with official tested battery-depleted fuel consumption as low as 3.8 L/100 km, enabling a total cruising range exceeding 1,200 km. It runs on RON 92 petrol and is equipped with a 60-litre fuel tank.

Chassis and Handling

Under the skin, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM utilizes a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup. Paired with an optimized hydraulic vibration-damping system and a full-frame subframe, the chassis effectively absorbs road imperfections, balancing daily family ride comfort with composed handling. The drive layout is front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD). The steering system uses Electric Power Steering (EPS). Braking is handled by a Bosch IPB integrated power brake system providing linear pedal feel, featuring front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, and an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). The tyre size is 235/55 R18. The seven-seater variant registers a kerb weight of 1,907 kg.

Cabin and Equipment

On the tech front, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is powered by the automotive-grade Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset. The infotainment system integrates an AI large-model intelligent cockpit, equipped with a 15.6-inch 2.5K HD central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The system supports voice assistant along with Apple CarPlay and Huawei HiCar smartphone connectivity. Higher-spec variants feature a Windshield Head-Up Display (W-HUD). The centre console area includes a wireless smartphone charging pad.

In terms of comfort amenities, high-spec trims come equipped with a "Queen" front passenger seat featuring a 10-point massage system with 5 selectable modes and power leg rest adjustment. The front seats support heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Audio entertainment is provided by a 12-speaker Sony surround sound system. The vehicle also benefits from the C-PURE Chery Green Cabin air management system and 64-colour ambient lighting. For practicality, the cabin offers 32 storage compartments. Folding down the second and third rows of seats expands the boot capacity to an impressive 1,930 litres.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is built around Chery's "Rock Solid" body structure, increasing aluminium alloy crossmember coverage to 84%. For passive safety, the vehicle comes equipped with a class-leading 10 airbags, including rear side airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and a segment-exclusive front centre (far-side) airbag. This model is engineered to comply with 5-star crash safety standards in both the EU and Australasian (ANCAP) markets.

For active safety, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM is equipped with a Level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) integrating up to 18 intelligent driving functions. The ADAS suite encompasses Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Door Opening Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking / Active Safety System, and Traffic Sign Recognition, among others. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a 540° HD panoramic camera system (with transparent chassis function).

Market Performance and Verdict

The launch of the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM, alongside its pure petrol siblings (1.6T and 2.0T), establishes a comprehensive dual-track product offensive across ICE and electrified segments. In terms of purchase incentives, Chery offers multiple ownership privileges such as Champion Trade-in, Connectivity Data, and Peace-of-Mind packages. However, the model faces intense market competition from brands like BYD. In terms of user reception, with core selling points including a 116 km pure electric range, flexible 5- and 7-seater configurations, Level 2.5 ADAS, and 10 airbags, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM has established strong differentiated competitiveness in the RM130,000-class PHEV SUV segment. Overall, backed by its Kunpeng Super Hybrid technology, ultra-low fuel consumption, extensive cruising range, and comprehensive safety suite, the Tiggo 8 PLUS C-DM stands out as a compelling choice for all-scenario family mobility.