If you’ve driven on South African roads lately, chances are you’ve seen a Chery Tiggo. Sleek, modern, and surprisingly affordable, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro has quickly become the most popular Chinese vehicle in South Africa, selling around 60 units every single day.

A New King of the Compact SUV Segment

In October 2025, Chery sold 1,725 Tiggo 4 units, making it the third best-selling passenger car in the entire country, ahead of several long-established brands that have dominated the market for decades.

But this isn’t a one-month wonder. In the third quarter of 2025, Chery sold nearly 4,900 Tiggo 4s, maintaining consistent monthly sales with 1,604 units in July, 1,568 in August, and 1,727 in September.

This performance cements the Tiggo 4 as one of South Africa’s top-selling SUVs and proves that buyers are no longer just considering Chinese cars, but choosing them confidently.

Why South Africans Love the Tiggo 4

The Tiggo 4’s success isn’t by accident. Chery has designed the range to appeal to a wide variety of buyers. With 13 different versions, from budget-friendly options to feature-packed hybrids, there’s a Tiggo for almost every need.

The Tiggo 4 Cross, one of the most sought-after models, starts at R269,900. It comes loaded with features South African drivers love:

• Touchscreen infotainment system
• Smart safety technology
• Stylish, comfortable interior
• A strong balance of performance and efficiency

For many, the Tiggo 4 offers big-brand quality at a much smaller price tag.

The Rise of Affordable Hybrids

As South Africans begin exploring more fuel-efficient options, Chery has also stepped up with the Tiggo Cross CSH Hybrid. Priced at R439,900, it’s currently the most affordable hybrid SUV in the country, and it’s selling fast, with 122 units sold in August 2025 alone.

With a claimed fuel consumption of 5.4L/100km, this hybrid delivers impressive savings without compromising comfort or performance. It’s no wonder it has become one of the best-selling hybrid vehicles in South Africa.

Chery’s Expanding Lineup and Local Ambitions

While the Tiggo 4 leads the pack, other Chery models are quickly gaining ground. In September 2025 alone:

• Tiggo 9: 41 units sold
• Tiggo 8: 121 units sold
• Tiggo 7: 323 units sold

These numbers show a brand expanding not just in popularity but in market depth, offering options for families, professionals, and adventure-seekers alike.

Chery has also confirmed that it is exploring local manufacturing opportunities, a major step that could lower prices even further and strengthen after-sales support across the country.

From Underdog to Industry Leader

Chery’s journey in South Africa hasn’t been a smooth one. The brand first entered the market in the early 2000s but withdrew after struggling with public perception and quality concerns.

Fast-forward to November 2021, when Chery made a bold comeback with the Tiggo 4 Pro. This time, the approach was completely different: improved build quality, modern design, and a reliable nationwide dealer network.

The results speak for themselves:

• 2022: 8,013 vehicles sold
• 2023: 16,110 vehicles sold
• 2024: nearly 20,000 vehicles sold

For perspective, Chery sold just 1,297 vehicles in 2014. That’s a growth story no one can ignore.

Changing Attitudes Toward Chinese Cars

The success of the Chery Tiggo isn’t just a sales milestone. It’s a sign of a larger shift in consumer confidence. South African buyers are now more open to Chinese automotive brands, especially when they deliver excellent value, advanced technology, and reliable after-sales support.

As Chery continues to expand its range with the Omoda and Jaecoo sub-brands, the company looks set to exceed 11,000 vehicle sales locally in 2025 and possibly even more in the years to come.

Final Thoughts

The Chery Tiggo 4 has redefined what South Africans expect from an affordable SUV: stylish design, smart features, and everyday practicality without the premium price tag.

If current trends continue, Chery’s rise from outsider to mainstream favorite could mark the start of a new era for the South African automotive market, one where value-driven innovation leads the way. www.chery.co.za