First Impressions: Chery Tiggo Cross 1.5 Turbo & 1.5L Hybrid CSH

KUALA LUMPUR: Chery Malaysia is expanding its lineup, this time previewing the all-new Chery Tiggo Cross — a compact SUV aimed at urban buyers looking for strong value and high feature content.

Slated to be priced below RM100k, the two Chery Tiggo Cross variants are on offer: a conventional 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol and a single-motor hybrid.

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We had a brief first drive experience around Subang, spending about 30 minutes behind the wheel of each model, and here’s what we gathered.

Let’s start with the Hybrid, because out of the two, this was the one that stood out more in the short drive. Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired to a single electric motor and a 1.8 kWh battery, the total output is a respectable 204 PS and 310 Nm.

While that torque figure might sound beefy, the delivery is focused more on low-speed shove and refinement than outright punch — ideal for city conditions.

Driving mostly in stop-and-go Subang traffic, the Hybrid spent much of its time running silently on electric power. The transition between electric and petrol propulsion was seamless, just like Honda’s e:HEV system.

The engine does cut in more often than expected, but primarily to recharge the battery or during heavier acceleration. Most of the time, though, the car glides silently on electric power — giving the Hybrid a noticeably more refined and premium feel compared to its turbocharged sibling.

Ride quality was good. The MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear setup soaked up road imperfections with ease, even on some gravel paths.

Steering was nicely weighted, though we couldn’t push it hard enough to really evaluate its handling due to traffic and route limitations. Still, the fundamentals are there, and the car felt balanced.

Inside, the cabin felt modern and well-built. Both variants share the same high-spec features: twin 10.25-inch digital displays, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice assistant, a 540-degree camera system, and six speakers.

The shortcut buttons for the climate control were placed unusually above the transmission shifter — a quirky but interesting design touch that added a sense of sophistication.

Front seat comfort was commendable, with the driver getting 6-way powered adjustment and lumbar support. Rear space, however, was just average — not cramped, but nothing to shout about. The boot, on the other hand, looked capable of handling small family needs with no issue.

Now, on to the 1.5T Turbo. This one makes 147 PS and 210 Nm, paired to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), sending power to the front wheels.

Unlike earlier Chery models, this DCT felt better calibrated — shifts were smooth, and throttle response was more linear and predictable. No jerky movements or sudden surges, just a nice clean pull.

We didn’t get to stretch its legs fully, but from what little throttle we gave it, the turbo felt punchy. There’s certainly more upper-end pull compared to the Hybrid, and this makes it the better option for those who want a more engaging, performance-oriented drive.

It’s worth noting that despite being less powerful on paper, the Turbo variant actually felt like the most refined Chery SUV in Malaysia to date, especially in terms of powertrain behaviour.

In terms of ride, it mirrors the Hybrid — supple, controlled and able to take on rough surfaces without issue. But again, our test route didn’t allow us to assess high-speed stability or cornering limits.

For safety, the Turbo offer six airbags, ABS, ESP, hill start assist, traction control, and a 540-degree camera. But the Hybrid goes further with seven airbags and a more complete ADAS suite, which includes lane centring assist, rear cross traffic braking, door opening warning, and traffic jam assist — making it arguably the safer and more complete urban option.

Dimension-wise, both measure 4,318 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,670 mm tall with a 2,610 mm wheelbase. The Hybrid is heavier at 1,565 kg compared to the Turbo's 1,468 kg, but still manages better fuel economy at 5.4L/100km versus 6.3L/100km.

The Turbo rides on 18-inch wheels while the Hybrid is equipped with 17s. Apart from that, everything is the same on the exterior front.

So which one should you pick? If your daily routine mostly involves crawling through Klang Valley traffic, hopping between malls, and dealing with tight parking spots — the Hybrid is clearly the better match. Its electric-first drive behaviour feels refined, quiet, and effortless.

But if you want a little more punch, like your weekend drives spirited, or just prefer the feel of a turbocharged engine with proper gears — the Turbo is a worthy alternative. It may not have the Hybrid’s ADAS suite or torque on paper, but it’s smoother and more predictable than earlier Chery efforts.

Ultimately, both variants feel like a solid evolution of Chery’s local offerings. There’s an overall sense of improved build quality, better tuning, and more attention to everyday usability.

For buyers looking at value-for-money, tech-packed compact SUVs — the Tiggo Cross definitely deserves a spot on the test drive list.

We’ll need more time behind the wheel — especially at higher speeds and varied terrain — to fully evaluate their performance and refinement, but from this short first drive, it’s clear Chery is heading in the right direction.

Whether you’re team turbo or team hybrid, the Tiggo Cross makes a strong case as a serious contender in Malaysia’s compact SUV space.

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