Car buyers looking for fresh options will have plenty to choose from this year, with Chinese automaker Chery expanding its Australian lineup significantly. Between the main Chery brand and its sister companies Omoda and Jaecoo, seven new models are heading to showrooms across the country.
What’s Happening with Chery in Australia?
The Chinese automotive giant is making big moves Down Under. After introducing the Jaecoo brand last year, Chery announced in March that Omoda would also join the Australian market. The company treats Omoda Jaecoo as one brand, though not every dealer will sell both Omoda Jaecoo and traditional Chery vehicles.
This expansion represents one of the most aggressive rollouts by a Chinese brand in recent Australian automotive history. Each new model brings different technology, pricing, and features to appeal to various buyer preferences.
Chery’s Updated Mid-Size Players
Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Get Major Updates
Coming in July, Chery’s popular mid-size SUVs are getting refreshed looks and new hybrid technology. The Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro Max will be renamed simply Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, with cleaner branding and updated styling.
The big news is the introduction of Chery’s Super Hybrid plug-in system. This technology combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with an 18.3kWh battery pack, delivering over 90km of electric range and more than 1200km total driving distance.
Unlike many plug-in hybrids, these models support DC fast-charging, taking just 19 minutes to charge from 30 to 80 percent. For families wanting to reduce fuel costs without range anxiety, this could be a game-changer.
Omoda’s Flagship Arrival
C9 Large SUV Makes Its Debut
The Omoda C9 arrives in August as the brand’s flagship offering. This five-seat crossover measures 4775mm long, making it larger than competitors like the Mazda CX-60, with a more spacious 2800mm wheelbase.
Two powertrain options will be available: a traditional 183kW turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with eight-speed automatic, and an advanced plug-in hybrid system. The hybrid version features three electric motors and claims impressive performance figures of 440kW power and 915Nm torque, with 0-100km/h acceleration in just 4.9 seconds.
Large SUV Options Expand
Chery Tiggo 9 Joins the Family
During the third quarter, Chery will introduce the Tiggo 9, a different version of the large SUV already sold as the Jaecoo J8. While similar in size, the Tiggo 9 targets family buyers with more practical features and potentially seven-seat configurations.
The model features updated interior styling with a 10.25-inch digital dashboard and 15.6-inch touchscreen. Power options likely include both petrol and plug-in hybrid variants, with the hybrid system producing 280kW and 610Nm.
Entry-Level Gets Efficient
Tiggo 4 Hybrid Brings Affordability
Chery’s smallest SUV is getting hybrid technology to improve efficiency. The Tiggo 4 Hybrid pairs a 1.5-litre engine with a 1.83kWh battery and 150kW electric motor, cutting fuel consumption from 7.3L/100km to just 5.4L/100km.
Performance improves too, with 0-100km/h acceleration dropping from 10.6 seconds to 9.4 seconds. Given that the standard Tiggo 4 starts at just $23,990, the hybrid version should remain very affordable.
Jaecoo’s Small SUV Addition
J5 Crossover Completes the Range
The Jaecoo J5, similar in size to a Hyundai Kona, will arrive later in 2025. This small crossover features the brand’s distinctive blocky styling, a large 1.45m² panoramic sunroof, and a 13.2-inch infotainment screen.
Expected to offer both petrol and electric powertrains, the electric version produces 155kW and 288Nm with 470km of range. This gives buyers choice between traditional and zero-emission driving.
2025 Chery and Omoda Jaecoo SUV Lineup
| Model | Launch Timing |
|---|---|
| Chery Tiggo 7 & 8 PHEV | July 2025 |
| Omoda C9 | August 2025 |
| Chery Tiggo 9 | Q3 2025 (July-September) |
| Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid | Late 2025 |
| Jaecoo J5 | Late 2025 |
What This Means for Car Buyers
These launches represent significant choice expansion in the Australian SUV market. From the affordable Tiggo 4 Hybrid to the high-performance Omoda C9, there’s something for different budgets and needs.
The focus on hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology shows Chery’s commitment to efficiency and reduced emissions. Fast-charging capability on plug-in models addresses one of the main concerns buyers have about hybrid technology.
For families considering Chinese brands, the variety of sizes, features, and price points makes it easier to find something suitable. The expansion also means more dealer support and parts availability as the brands establish themselves locally.
While focusing primarily on SUVs, Chery hasn’t ruled out other vehicle types. The Omoda 7, another plug-in hybrid SUV, is confirmed for future release, though timing remains undecided.
This aggressive expansion strategy positions Chery and Omoda Jaecoo as serious alternatives to established brands, particularly for buyers wanting modern technology at competitive prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will all new Chery SUVs be available with hybrid power?
A: Most new models will offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid options, though traditional petrol engines remain available on several models.
Q: How is Omoda Jaecoo different from regular Chery?
A: Omoda Jaecoo operates as a separate brand with different styling, features, and dealer networks, though some dealers may sell both brands.
Q: When will electric versions be available?
A: The Jaecoo J5 electric is expected late 2025, with other electric models likely to follow in future years.
