Chery Group showcase a variety of new vehicles

The Chery Group follows a multi-brand strategy with independent nameplates focussed on specific target markets and setting up shop independently from the parent brand, Chery.

Under the Chery Group umbrella, you will find brands like Chery, Jaecoo and Omoda (operating together), Jetour, iCAUR, Lepas and Exeed to name the ones best-known in South Africa.

Here is a quick look at some of the new models shown in China and on their way to South Africa.

Chery Tiggo V introduces multi-purpose concept:

Chery used the Beijing show to reveal the Tiggo V, a vehicle that attempts to combine several body styles into one platform. It is positioned as a flexible family vehicle that can shift between SUV, MPV and bakkie style use through reconfigurable seating and load space, Chery claims.

Technical details remain limited, including confirmed drivetrain options. The focus at this stage is on packaging and adaptability rather than outright performance figures. However, the mention of fuel efficiency and all terrain ability suggest a conventional petrol or hybrid setup rather than a full electric platform.

For South Africa, timing and specifications are still to be confirmed. If introduced locally, it would likely sit high up the Tiggo range, targeting buyers who need more flexibility than a traditional SUV offers. Its success will depend on how well this multi role concept translates into everyday usability rather than novelty.

Jaecoo J5 HEV heads to South Africa with hybrid focus:

Jaecoo presented the J5 HEV as part of a global efficiency test rather than a static reveal. The compact SUV uses the brand’s hybrid system, combining a petrol engine with electric assistance to prioritise fuel consumption and range.

Real world testing, according to Jaecoo, returned 3.7 litres per 100km and a range of just over 1 000km, both notable figures for this segment. Performance is modest with 0 to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 175km/h claim. This places it firmly in the mainstream compact SUV category.

The J5 HEV is confirmed for South Africa in July 2026. It will likely sit below the J7 and compete with other hybrid SUVs entering the market.

iCAUR signals future direction with concept and REEV models:

iCAUR used the Beijing show to outline its future design and technology direction through a new concept car and its V series line up. The concept itself remains a design study, with no confirmed production details or drivetrain, but it points towards a focus on electric mobility and distinctive styling.

More relevant are the V23 and V27 models. The V27 uses a range extended electric vehicle setup (REEV), combining an electric drivetrain with a petrol generator to extend range. This approach avoids full reliance on charging infrastructure, which could be relevant for markets like South Africa. The V23 is positioned as a smaller new energy SUV with a more conventional electric layout.

The brand is preparing for a South African launch, although timing is not yet fixed. When it arrives, iCAUR is likely to position itself as a more design led and electrified alternative within the broader Chery stable, sitting apart from both Chery and other brands with a stronger focus on new energy vehicles and lifestyle positioning.