A Game-Changer or a Compromise?
Chery South Africa has been making waves in the local automotive market, climbing into the top 10 best-selling brands with a record-breaking 1,800 units sold in October 2024. The latest addition to their lineup, the 2025 Chery Tiggo Cross Chery Super Hybrid (CSH), has arrived as the country’s most affordable traditional hybrid SUV.
Launched in June 2025, it undercuts competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV by a significant margin, starting at just R439,900. But does this budget-friendly hybrid deliver enough to compete in South Africa’s fiercely competitive SUV market, or is it a case of “too good to be true”? Let’s dive into the specs, technology, wins, and potential pitfalls of the Tiggo Cross CSH to help you decide if it deserves a spot in your driveway.
Price and Trim Levels: A Budget Hybrid Breakthrough
The Chery Tiggo Cross CSH HEV is available in two trims: Comfort (R439,900) and Elite (R469,900). These prices make it the cheapest traditional hybrid SUV in South Africa, undercutting the Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XS (R494,400) by R54,500 and the Haval Jolion Pro 1.5 HEV Ultra Luxury (R519,950) by R50,050. For budget-conscious buyers, this pricing is a revelation, bringing hybrid technology within reach of those who might otherwise settle for a petrol-only compact SUV.
Warranty and Service Plan
- 5-year/150,000 km warranty
- 10-year/unlimited mileage battery warranty (for first owner)
- 5-year/60,000 km service plan
Specs and Performance: Mild Hybrid, Mighty Claims?
Under the hood, the Tiggo Cross CSH HEV pairs a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine (71 kW, 118 Nm) with an electric motor powered by a 1.83 kWh battery pack. The combined system output is a respectable 150 kW and 310 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L NA 4-cylinder + electric motor |
| Total System Output | 150kW/310Nm |
| Transmission | Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) |
| Battery | 1.83 kWh |
| Claimed Fuel Economy | 5.4 L/100km |
| Driving Modes | Pure Electric, Series Hybrid, Parallel Hybrid, Energy Recovery |
Why You Should Give the Tiggo Cross CSH a Chance
- Unbeatable Value: At R439,900, it’s the cheapest hybrid SUV in SA
- Impressive Features: Premium cabin with dual 10.25-inch screens
- Fuel Efficiency: Claimed 5.4 L/100km could save thousands annually
- South African Fit: Suspension tuned for local roads
- Brand Momentum: Chery’s expanding dealer network and strong sales
Why You Might Want to Pass
- Mild Hybrid Limitations: No extended electric-only range
- Gearbox Concerns: Some reports of unrefined low-speed behavior
- Brand Perception: Chinese automakers still building trust
- Confusing Lineup: Overlaps with other Chery models
- Real-World Efficiency: May not match claimed figures
Verdict: A Budget Hybrid Worth Considering, But Not Without Flaws
The 2025 Chery Tiggo Cross CSH is a compelling option for budget-conscious South Africans looking to dip their toes into hybrid ownership. Its unbeatable price, generous features, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a standout in a market dominated by pricier competitors.
However, its mild hybrid system and potential gearbox quirks may leave some buyers wanting more refinement or a bolder electrified experience. The overlapping pricing with other Chery models and lingering brand perception issues could also give pause to cautious buyers.
DriveZA Recommendation: Book a test drive at your nearest Chery dealership to experience the Tiggo Cross CSH’s blend of affordability and tech.
Disclaimer: All specifications and prices are correct at time of publication. Always verify with your local dealer before purchasing.
