Chery’s Double Semi-Final Achievement In The 2026 SA COTY Competition
Chery South Africa has secured two semi-finalist positions in the 2026 South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition, with both the Tiggo 7 CSH and the flagship Tiggo 9 moving on to the next round. This dual recognition marks an important step for the brand as it continues to expand its footprint in South Africa’s highly competitive SUV market.
In a market long dominated by legacy brands, seeing two Chery SUVs reach the semi-finals of the 2026 South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition is a moment worth noting. Driven by an expanding SUV lineup, including several new hybrid models, the brand is steadily raising its local profile.
It’s a sign that Chery is being taken seriously, and in a crowded SUV segment, that’s no small feat.
Both models employ Chery’s CSH plug-in hybrid system, reflecting growing trust in hybrid technology and showcasing the brand’s ability to deliver efficient, high-performing, and affordable electrified SUVs across multiple price points. CSH technology combines electric power with petrol efficiency and is preferred for long-distance capability, fuel economy, and reliable performance.
What Is The COTY Evaluation Process Like?
The South African Car of the Year competition operates through structured, multi-stage assessment by experienced automotive journalists. The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ), now in its 40th year since inception in 1986, evaluates vehicles across performance, safety, value proposition, build quality, and real-world usability.
For the 2026 awards, 55 vehicles met the entry requirements, creating one of the most diverse fields in recent years. Of these, 30 models were selected as semi-finalists and will be reviewed further in the next judging phase.
Reaching the semi-final stage indicates that independent judges have measured these vehicles against their direct competitors and found them worthy of continued assessment. In the case of the Tiggo 7 CSH and Tiggo 9, it confirms that both models demonstrated the capability and balance required to progress alongside established names in their respective segments.
“We see this recognition as proof that our electrified strategy is on the right track. More people are exploring electrified options, but they still want dependable long-distance capability,” said Verene Petersen, National Marketing & Communications Manager at Chery South Africa.
For car shoppers, semi-finalist status indicates that these vehicles are reliable, well-built options worth considering when exploring SUV choices for 2026 and beyond.
Chery’s Growing Presence In South Africa
Chinese automotive brands have steadily gained ground in South Africa, and Chery has become a leading presence with its Tiggo SUV range. Throughout 2025, the brand recorded consistent growth, supported by an expanding lineup, new hybrid models, and the introduction of the range-topping Tiggo 9.
This growth is reflected in sales. The Chery Tiggo 4 was the fourth best-selling passenger car in South Africa in 2025, making it the most popular Chinese model in the country.
Backed by a global research and development network, Chery continues to improve hybrid performance and efficiency across its SUV range. Recognition as a 2026 SA Car of the Year semi-finalist further highlights the brand’s engineering maturity.
Chery’s Semi-Finalists: Tiggo 7 CSH And Tiggo 9
Let’s take a closer look at the two Chery models that reached the semi-final stage.
Chery Tiggo 7 CSH (PHEV)
The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, one of the most attainable plug-in hybrid SUVs, combines a striking, modern exterior with a spacious, well-appointed interior. Its 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine paired with an electric motor delivers 265 kW, an electric-only range of up to 90 km, and a combined range of 1,200 km.
The SUV is thoughtfully equipped with advanced safety systems, premium comfort features, and cutting-edge technology, making it a compelling choice in the mid-size hybrid SUV segment.
Chery Tiggo 9 (PHEV)
The Chery Tiggo 9 is Chery’s flagship seven-seater SUV in Mzansi. Designed to offer space, comfort, and advanced safety for families, the Tiggo 9 also delivers luxury and performance typically expected from higher-priced SUVs.
It is offered with front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, both powered by the 1.5-litre turbo petrol-electric powertrain.
- The FWD Pinnacle produces 280 kW and 610 Nm of torque.
- The AWD Vanguard, with three electric motors, delivers 455 kW and 920 Nm.
Both variants use an 8-speed automatic transmission, achieving fuel consumption of just 1.5 L/100 km (Pinnacle) and 1.4 L/100 km (Vanguard), with a combined petrol-electric range of up to 1,400 km. The Tiggo 9 Pro PHEV boasts impressive dimensions and a long list of premium features, all for less than a million Rand.
What Happens Next?
The COTY process continues, with category winners and the overall 2026 South African Car of the Year set to be announced in May. For buyers comparing SUVs across segments, this recognition offers a strong reason to include Chery on the shortlist.
Experience the Tiggo 7 CSH and Tiggo 9 for yourself by booking a test drive at your nearest Group1 Chery dealership and see how these semi-finalists fit your driving needs.
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