Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid | ENGEAR ENGLISH

As the smallest SUV from Chery Malaysia, the Chery Tiggo Cross clearly has its unique advantages.

First, it comes with a competitive price package, priced at just under RM100,000.

Second, the Turbo and Hybrid versions of the Tiggo Cross feature different approaches and technologies, despite sharing a nearly identical appearance.

Most importantly, even at this price range, it does not feel like a budget SUV—making it appealing to test, own, and enjoy.

Chery Tiggo Cross: Turbo or Hybrid Engine?

For the Malaysian market, the Tiggo Cross is available with two powertrain options.

Those seeking spirited performance can opt for the 1.5-liter turbo petrol variant, which produces 147 PS and 210 Nm, with front-wheel drive and a 6-speed DCT transmission.

The Hybrid variant, in contrast, features the following specifications:

1.5-liter NA Atkinson cycle engine: 102 PS/125 Nm
Two electric motors: 204 PS/310 Nm
Direct Hybrid (DHT) transmission
1.8 kWh LFP battery pack

Chery claims a fuel consumption rate of approximately 6.3 liters per 100 km for the Turbo version and 5.4 liters per 100 km for the Hybrid.

Exterior Appearance of the Chery Tiggo Cross

Among subcompact SUVs in the market, the Chery Tiggo Cross offers a ‘safe’ appearance.

Not overly aggressive, yet distinctive enough to be recognized as different from other Chinese-made SUVs.

Between the two variants, there are few differences:

18-inch rims (Turbo) vs. aerodynamic 17-inch rims (Hybrid)
Hybrid emblem

Cabin Space

The dashboard layout is nearly identical for both Tiggo Cross variants.

It features a dual 10.25-inch screen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, along with a 15W wireless charging slot.

However, sometimes the infotainment system for both variants may not be very stable.

This can create a bit of chaos during driving, especially when relying on the navigation system.

The sporty front seats provide the necessary support and comfort, particularly for long journeys.

Rear passengers may need to be patient as they share a single air conditioning vent.

Physical Control Buttons Are Still Available!

The Tiggo Cross retains physical control buttons, making it easier for drivers to adjust necessary settings.

The ‘third screen’ for climate control in the center console adds a premium touch to this subcompact SUV.

However, it is merely an LCD panel with minimal touch functionality.

With this feature, drivers no longer need to fumble to change settings (fan speed, temperature) that are usually embedded in the infotainment screen.

For the Hybrid model, the center console appears somewhat barren, lacking the electronic parking brake and auto hold present in the Turbo variant.

The electronic gear shifter is sized comfortably and easy to operate.

However, the glossy black finish may distract drivers, especially when traveling under intense sunlight.

Cargo Space

The Tiggo Cross Turbo offers 380 liters of cargo space, which is ample for storing necessities.

Due to the presence of the LFP battery pack in the Hybrid variant’s cargo area, it can only accommodate up to 350 liters.

Tiggo Cross Turbo driving experience

The Tiggo Cross Turbo can be the first choice, particularly for those who prefer a simpler setup without hybrid assistance.

On paper, it has adequate power and an appropriate transmission pairing to move this nearly 1.5-ton SUV.

It is not difficult to reach the desired speed on the highway, but one must contend with a bit of drama when this SUV starts from a standstill.

Despite its aggressive appearance, the Tiggo Cross Turbo is not inherently sporty.

Its suspension is tuned more for comfort rather than rigid cornering performance—suitable for its role as an urban SUV.

What the writer appreciates is the NVH level, making this SUV feel premium, as wind and tire noise are effectively suppressed.

Tiggo Cross Hybrid Is Indeed Economical!

In contrast to the Turbo variant, the Tiggo Cross Hybrid offers a smoother initial acceleration thanks to the electric motor assist and e-CVT transmission.

Most of the time (and at lower speeds), the Tiggo Cross Hybrid relies on electric drive.

You may not even notice the petrol engine’s operation, as there are no significant vibrations transmitted from the engine compartment into the cabin.

The Hybrid variant is designed for those seeking excellent fuel efficiency.

Based on personal experience, the writer found it challenging to deplete a full tank (51 liters) within a typical timeframe due to the system’s efficiency.

The writer merely hopes that one day, Chery will introduce a driving percentage feature in zero-emission mode each time driving is completed.

This would provide more motivation for owners to drive the Tiggo Cross Hybrid more often without worrying about their monthly fuel balance.