Lepas L8 coming to Malaysia, here’s what to expect?

Lepas is Chery’s new sub-brand established in 2025, specifically for markets outside China. After making its debut in Indonesia, the brand is set to enter the Malaysian market this year. The company has announced its network expansion strategy for Malaysia, with an official launch scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The first Lepas model to arrive in the local market will be the L8 SUV.

The automaker has confirmed plans to launch the Lepas L8 in the first half of 2026. While we are waiting for official details to drop, it’s a good time to take a look at what the upcoming Lepas SUV is expected to offer. 

Lepas L8: What to expect?

Excels in both efficiency and endurance

Underpinning Chery Group's Super Hybrid technology, the L8 is designed to address two key consumer concerns: range anxiety and high running costs. It is powered by a Super Hybrid system that promises to offer both energy efficiency and range through a "performance triangle" of 44.5% thermal efficiency. 

Lepas claims a combined range of over 1,300 km (with a pure EV range of up to 100 km) and a fuel efficiency of 4.2 litres per 100 km under battery-depleted conditions. This translates into a combined efficiency of over 77 km per litre. These impressive numbers alleviate users' concerns about range and long wait times at charging stations.

The plug-in hybrid setup combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of generating 143 PS and 215 Nm and an electric motor tuned to make 204 PS and 310 Nm. The combined system output is rated at 275 PS and 365 Nm. Also part of the setup is a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).

Elegant styling with practical functionality

The Lepas L8 is based on the brand’s "Leopard Aesthetics" design philosophy, combining elegant styling with practical functionality, offering a refined interior that balances form and comfort. The D-segment SUV measures 4,688 mm in length, 1,871 mm in width, and 1,686 mm in height, and spans a wheelbase of 2,800 mm. Inside, it offers 970 mm of rear legroom, ensuring ample passenger space. 

The cockpit boasts a human-centred layout with a soft and upscale ambience. At the centre lies a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a full LCD instrument panel. The vehicle is equipped with several thoughtful features that enhance comfort and convenience. These include - 

• Power-adjustable seats
• Wireless phone charging
• Foldable tray table
• Panoramic sunroof 
• UV-protective windshield 
• Negative-ion air purification system

Easy to park  

With the Lepas L8, the automaker also addresses the frustrating "last-mile" challenge for drivers worldwide, i.e., parking. Realising that parking has turned into a test of skill, the SUV enhances convenience with its industry-leading APA (Automatic Parking Assistance) + RPA (Remote Parking Assistance) dual-mode intelligent parking system.

The mentioned systems offer an all-scenario, fully automatic, and worry-free smart parking experience, allowing drivers to relax with just one click.

• APA - This advanced system supports vertical, parallel, or angled space parking by automatically managing both entry and exit manoeuvres. It can identify parking spots on its own with the help of intelligent environment sensing.
• RPA: It allows users to use the key remote to guide the vehicle in or out (after stepping out of the car) with precision. It is ideal for extremely tight spaces, obstacle-dense areas, or irregularly shaped parking spots.

A brief look at Lepas’ global outlook

With a legacy of being the No.1 in passenger vehicle export brand in China for 22 consecutive years, Chery Group is fully geared up to accelerate its internationalisation drive with Lepas. 

The brand will roll out a wide range of new energy products, including hybrid and pure electric, bringing users more diverse experiences of elegant mobility. Over the next three years, Lepas will enter into core global markets including Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

The company will introduce five models within three years, covering key mainstream segments. The elegantly positioned L8 SUV will be followed by the L6 and L4, targeting trendsetting creators and younger consumers, respectively. 

Lepas has plans to establish 1,200 global outlets and achieve annual sales of 500,000 units, bringing premium mobility experiences to consumers across the world.

Also read: Chery Malaysia puts TIGGO front and centre for 2026, more CSH models coming