The 2026 Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid is making waves in Australia as the country’s most affordable full hybrid SUV. Since its debut, the Tiggo 4 has quickly climbed the sales rankings, establishing itself as a strong contender in the small SUV market. Following the successful introduction of its turbocharged petrol variant, Chery expanded its offerings to include hybrid models, responding to the growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles.
As of October 31, 2023, hybrids accounted for over 10% of new vehicle sales in Australia, with 161,426 out of 1,014,027 total new cars sold being hybrids this year. The Tiggo 4 Hybrid starts at $29,990 drive-away, while the top-tier Tiggo 4 Hybrid Ultimate is priced at $34,990 drive-away. This pricing undercuts competitors like the Toyota Yaris Hybrid and GWM Haval Jolion HEV, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Tiggo 4 offers a surprisingly premium feel for its price point. Glossy screens, leather-look surfaces, and contrast stitching give it an upscale appearance, especially when compared to other budget models that often feature hard plastics. The cabin layout provides a commanding view of the road, with high seating positions for both the driver and front passenger.
The Hybrid Ultimate model features bucket-style seats trimmed in faux leather, with six-way power adjustment for added comfort. However, taller drivers may find the lack of under-thigh support a drawback, as adjustments to the base cushion angle are not available. The vehicle is equipped with dual 10.25-inch displays, which house the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Although the graphics are clear, some users may experience delays in response time, which detracts from the overall user experience.
Storage options are plentiful, with a variety of compartments for personal items. The Tiggo 4 also accommodates rear passengers comfortably, thanks to its spacious design. With 470 litres of cargo space available when all seats are in use, it provides ample room for luggage or groceries.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Tiggo 4 Hybrid combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. While the hybrid designation suggests fuel efficiency similar to that of competitors, testing revealed consumption rates between 5.0 and 6.0 litres per 100 kilometers. This is an improvement over the petrol variants, which typically consume 8 to 9 litres in similar conditions.
Despite its hybrid status, the Tiggo 4 appears less efficient than expected, failing to meet Chery’s claimed range of 1000 kilometres. The hybrid model does, however, provide a smoother driving experience compared to its petrol-only counterpart, benefiting from the instant torque of the electric motor.
Driving the Tiggo 4 Hybrid reveals a generally neutral balance between comfort and handling. While its steering lacks feedback, the vehicle is easy to maneuver in urban settings, thanks to its elevated driving position. Noise levels are well managed, with minimal sound intrusion from the petrol engine.
Chery has equipped the Tiggo 4 with various driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and a surround camera system. However, some functions, such as the semi-autonomous highway assist, have received mixed reviews due to inaccuracies in lane centring.
Safety ratings for the Tiggo 4 Hybrid are still pending, though the petrol variant received a five-star rating from ANCAP in 2023. Standard safety features across the range include essential systems, while the Hybrid Ultimate adds additional enhancements.
Cost of Ownership
Chery offers a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty on the Tiggo 4, which adds a layer of reassurance for potential buyers. The first five scheduled services are capped at $299 each, totaling $1,495 for the initial five years. The sixth service is priced at $736.62, making ongoing maintenance relatively affordable.
While the hybrid version commands a premium over the petrol variant, the added benefits of improved driveability and fuel efficiency may justify the price. The entry-level model, priced at $23,990, remains an appealing option for those looking for value without the hybrid’s additional cost.
Overall, the Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering affordable, well-equipped vehicles. It offers a combination of features, comfort, and efficiency that resonate with a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers. While it may not match the efficiency of more established hybrids like the Yaris Cross, it provides a compelling alternative in a competitive market.
