Three weaknesses of the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro
Launched in the Malaysian market last June, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro has a significant responsibility to strengthen the Chery brand’s presence in the country.
As a newcomer, the Tiggo 7 Pro faces considerable challenges, as its closest competitors, such as the Honda CR-V and Proton X70, are indeed formidable. However, after test-driving it, I found that this Chinese SUV is capable of providing stiff competition in its segment.
That said, like other vehicles on the market, it also has its drawbacks. These drawbacks are relatively minor in my view but can still impact the ownership experience.
Engine is powerful but lacks refinement
Believe it or not, the Tiggo 7 Pro is more powerful than both the CR-V and X70, boasting figures of 197 PS and 290 Nm from its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.
With a seven-speed DCT transmission driving the front wheels, the SUV is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 205 km/h.
On the highway, the combination of engine and transmission performs admirably, offering quick throttle response and smooth gear changes. However, when navigating busy city streets, I found that the powertrain can be somewhat unrefined and occasionally struggles slightly when taking off.
Suspension is a tad too soft
The Tiggo 7 Pro’s suspension system is typical for a Chinese brand vehicle. It is soft and comfortable, with satisfactory shock absorption, which gives me more confidence when traversing uneven roads.
However, the softness of the suspension makes the Tiggo 7 Pro feel a bit unsteady if driven too fast. It can still handle corners well, but if pushed too hard, you can feel it beginning to ‘struggle.’
Clearly, the way the dampers are set is best suited for leisurely driving, but I believe it requires a little of fine-tuning to better cope with Malaysia’s unpredictable road conditions.
Appearance could use a little more pizzazz
Don’t get me wrong; I think the Tiggo 7 Pro is actually rather handsome and stylish. That said, when placed alongside the CR-V and X70, I am confident it would get overshadowed due to its somewhat conventional design language.
The Mercedes-esque diamond-like studs on the grille and full-width rear lights are attractive touches that boost the car’s appeal, yet it’s undeniable that the red brake calipers appear somewhat out of place for a family vehicle.
Additionally, the blue accents on the bumper seem like an afterthought. If you follow the automotive industry closely, you’d know that blue is often used by vehicle manufacturers for EVs, hybrids, or PHEVs, making it seem rather odd on a pure ICE vehicle like the Tiggo 7 Pro.
