Cherry is a Chinese car manufacturer that was born in China in 1997 and arrived in Peru in 2007 with its QQ citycar model and Tiggo 2 SUV. The latter is a model manufactured since 2005 and in some way is the “patriarch” of the line. Tiggo. In that sense, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max has the same DNA, although its capabilities have improved in every way.
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“The Tiggo 8 Pro Max is the first SUV with AWD drive from Cherry that arrives in Peru, which also complements the Tiggo 8 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro Hybrid models. Unlike the rest of the variants, which are 4×2, the Pro Max is prepared for any road. It is for those who like to go outside the city or walk along trails, without losing its equipment and safety qualities.”explained Cecilia Riva, Brand Manager of Chery Peru.
In fact, the presentation of this vehicle took place in Azpitia (south of Lima), where we were able to have a brief driving experience with this new version. There we were able to find a circuit made up of a gentle trail and some slightly more complicated areas. Although 2WD vehicles could also travel on this route, the loose dirt and huge holes in the road would cause the rear wheels to skid and overexert the engine and transmission. However, when we carried out the test drive with the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, we overcame the obstacles without major risk and maintaining comfort.
The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max is the first in the family to use the 2.0-liter Acteco turbo engine. (Photo: Fernando Roca)
/ Fernando Roca
So, some systems from the rest of the versions are maintained, such as, for example, the electrically assisted steering, the independent McPherson suspension scheme at the front and Multi-link at the rear, the braking system with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, among others. However, the traction and the engine are changed, which are two of the most important systems in a vehicle.
“The great news about this truck is that it debuts a 2.0-liter turbo engine that generates 245 hp and 375 nm, associated with a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). It has high torque and the latter is very important considering that it is an AWD vehicle. Under this configuration, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max gives us the possibility of driving on more complicated roads.”said Eduardo León, product specialist at Chery Peru.
The exterior design remains similar to the already known versions, although some extra chrome details are added. (Photo: Fernando Roca)
/ Fernando Roca
Specifically, the 1.5 and 1.6 liter turbo engines are left behind and the Acteco engine is introduced, which we already met in Jetour, one of the sub-brands of the Chery group. The engine in question is made up of four in-line cylinders and 16 valves, it also has a double camshaft distribution, direct injection and is powered by a turbocharger. In short, it is one of the latest engines manufactured by the Chery group and proof of this is that it complies with the Euro VI emissions standard.
On the other hand, for better traction performance, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max uses a system of driving modes that can be controlled through a knob on the center console. “The AWD traction provides six driving modes, which can be adapted to the circumstances. In Eco, Normal and Sport mode we can take advantage of the power and torque during the day, while in Snow, Mud or Sand modes, the vehicle will prioritize providing the best possible traction according to the type of terrain. For example, if more traction is needed on the front axle, the vehicle will send more torque to that axle, this will also be done according to the work ranges of each of the driving modes.León stressed.
One point to consider is that it is only available with a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which uses two wet multi-plate clutches, which have an advantage over dry DCT transmissions.
“The Tiggo 8 Pro Max has a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which allows changes to be made faster and more fluid, and being wet also promotes transmission care. This is because friction and heat are part of the functioning of the system, but at the same time they are enemies of metals. Therefore, wet clutches with some lubrication allow the components to be better cared for”indicated the specialist.
This new version looks more modern, highlighting its widescreen screen and new interior layout. (Photo: Fernando Roca)
/ Fernando Roca
Regarding the bodywork, the same dimensions as the rest of the versions are maintained. That is, it is 4,720 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and 1,705 mm high. The wheelbase is 2,708 mm and it has a minimum ground clearance of 196 mm. Where there are some changes is in the weight, since the AWD system adds extra kilos to the vehicle. Now the net weight is 1,747 kg, while the load capacity is 461 kg. The fuel tank has a capacity of 57 liters and the trunk has a volumetric capacity of between 889 and 1930 liters.
In terms of design, the vehicle retains the Tiggo 8 Pro line, but adds LED fog lights. Additionally, it uses 235/50 R19 tires and maintains chrome details on its body.
In the second row the space is very comfortable, since it has an almost flat floor, cupholders, among other amenities. (Photo: Fernando Roca)
/ Fernando Roca
Inside we find an SUV that looks very modern, standing out for its panoramic screen, panoramic sunroof, 540° camera, seats with electric adjustment, ignition button, electric opening trunk, head-up display, air conditioning with outlets on the 2nd and 3rd row, seats upholstered in premium eco-leather, premium Sony audio system with 10 speakers, wireless charger, recording system, among others.
In relation to safety, it offers nine airbags in the following distribution: two front, four side, two curtain and one knee (pilot). In addition, it integrates ABS+EBD brakes, stability control (ESP), emergency braking system (EBA), traction control (TCS), among others. Together, it includes a package of ten driving assistance systems (ADAS), among which the Blind Spot Warning System (BSD), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) stand out. .
These are the third row seats, which also have air conditioning vents. (Photo: Fernando Roca)
/ Fernando Roca
“Our expectation with the introduction of this new version is to have a greater position in the segment. Although there is a large amount of supply, our idea is to become the first Chinese brand with AWD trucks in Peru”Riva noted.
Finally, the new version of Chery’s largest model reaches the Peruvian market from US$38,990, so it has a higher price than the Tiggo 8 Pro version, but lower than the hybrid variant.
