Chery TIGGO Cross 1.5 Turbo and 1.5 Hybrid

At the beginning of 2024, Chery Malaysia said that it would launch 3 models during the year with the OMODA E5 and TIGGO 7 Pro being confirmed as the first two. A third model was also mentioned –  but not revealed – and it was said to be an entry-level model which would be ‘My First Chery’ to bring newcomers into the brand’s family.

The third model was expected to be launched by the end of the year but 2024 ended and there was no new model. Then at the 2025 Malaysia Auto Show, the company displayed the TIGGO Cross and this was said to be ‘My First Chery’, its debut having been delayed due to some issues. And it would really be an entry-level model because Chery Malaysia hinted that it would cost under RM100,000.

Since the preview at the motorshow in May, the TIGGO Cross – which is assembled locally at the Inokom plant in Kedah – has been making the rounds and the media also got a first look and feel of it at a special session. And tonight, Chery Malaysia will launch the new model so we will know just how much less than RM100,000 it will be… and rumours are that it could be as low as RM80,000.

Before the launch, here’s everything we know about the TIGGO Cross so that we only need to update you on the price (via our social media channels) when it is launched.

Two versions
There will be two versions offered – one with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and a second with a hybrid electric powertrain. Both have similar bodies with Chery’s SUV design language that includes the grille with the ‘Art in Motion’ concept.

Size-wise, the TIGGO Cross is 4318 mm long and 1830 mm wide, which makes it a smaller model than the TIGGO 7 which is 4513 mm long, 1862 mm wide. For something more familiar to compare to, it is about the same size as a Proton X50. But the wheelbase, at 2610 mm, is just 50 mm shorter than the TIGGO 7’s so interior space is still fairly generous (for a SUV in this class).

Most of the specifications for the 2 versions are similar so they will be hard to differentiate. However, sharp-eyed observers will spot smaller wheels (17 inches) on the hybrid, while the Turbo gets 18-inch wheels. Behind the wheels of both versions are red brake calipers, a sporty touch.

Chery Super Hybrid System
With the TIGGO Cross, Chery Malaysia is introducing the Chery Super Hybrid System (CSH) to Malaysia. The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) system is considered as having 5th generation hybrid technology, showing that automakers continue to develop and advance HEV technology and are not solely focussed on full electric technology.

The CSH system, which was introduced at the 2025 Malaysia Auto Show as well, aims at providing a better balance of performance and efficiency, with a focus on range, safety, and a smooth driving experience. The main elements are the Dedicated Hybrid Engine (DHE) which high thermal efficiency and a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) which has a high transmission efficiency of 98.5%.

With the target of maximised range, Chery engineers have been able to achieve up to 1,200 kms with a full tank of fuel, and with enough charge in the battery, a pure electric range of up to 90 kms. These are possible, thanks to the high efficiency of the engine and transmission.

The system uses a high-capacity lithium iron phosphate blade battery. Called the Guardian Battery, it has fast-charging capabilities and its safety has been shown in a public test in Indonesia recently. Multiple layers of protection ensure it is not damaged by external objects and can even be immersed in water for some time.

Depending on the model, the CSH system has various driving modes that optimise driving in different conditions or according to the driver’s preference. These modes are easily selected while on the move and alter the performance characteristics.

For the TIGGO Cross Hybrid, the CSH powertrain has two integrated motors producing 204 ps/310 Nm. These work with a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an output of 96 ps/120 Nm. Powering the motors is a battery with a 1.8 kWh capacity.

From what we understand, the CSH system in the TIGGO Cross Hybrid is just one of the variants available. In future models, there will be other versions of the CSH system offered. For this model, the fuel consumption is claimed to be 18.5 kms/litre so a full tank of 51 litres should average 943 kms. Of course, the actual range would vary depending on the driving style and conditions, as well as how much the electric motor is used. In any case, 18.5 kms/litre is already pretty good.

TIGGO Cross 1.5 Turbo
The other powertrain is a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with an output of 147 ps/210 Nm. Also driving only the front wheels through a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Without the high torque of the electric motors, the acceleration is not as strong and 0 – 100 km/h is claimed to be 10.5 seconds, while the hybrid version can do the same run in 8.9 seconds (both in Sport mode).

Safety
The Chinese automakers have been developing their Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for many years and today offer comprehensive packages in all their models. It’s pretty much a software matter with increasing advances in hardware like cameras and sensors.

The TIGGO Cross gets an extensive ADAS package but there are some differences between the two versions. The hybrid versions gets the full list but the 1.5 Turbo omits features like Door Opening Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Emergency Lane Keeping, Multi Collision Brake Traffic Jam Assist Integrated Cruise Control and Smart Vehicle Speed Control. It also gets 6 airbags instead of 7, which the hybrid version has.

Both versions have a 540-degree panoramic display of the vehicle and if you wonder what ‘540 degrees’ means (when most cars have 360 degrees), it indicates that there is another 180 degrees of coverage. This extra area is below the vehicle, so the driver can see the road and spot any hazards like potholes. With the high definition of the 10.25-inch display, there is a lot of clarity to pick out even small details.

Convenience features
Both versions have generally the same features list that includes a 15W wireless charging pad, leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux leather upholstery, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ventilation for the rear passengers. The instrument panel is a 10.25-inch panel which differs in some displays to show the HEV powertrain operation in the hybrid version.

While the driver’s seat has 6-way electric adjustment in both versions, the one in the hybrid version also gets electrically adjustable lumbar support. Like all SUVs, the rear backrests can be folded down individually or together. When both are down, the cargo capacity can be up to 1,179 litres. However, due to the battery placement, there is slightly less volume in the hybrid version.

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