Chery Unveils its Latest Electric and Hybrid SUV: The 2027 Lepas L6

Chery is gearing up to introduce a new auto brand called Lepas to the Australian market within the next 12 to 18 months. The L6 small SUV is set to be one of the first models to be launched under this new brand. Lepas, along with another brand called Omoda Jaecoo, will be making its debut in Australia towards the end of 2026.

The initial lineup of Lepas vehicles will include the L6, a compact SUV to compete with models like the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Qashqai, as well as the L8, which is similar in size to the Mitsubishi Outlander and Toyota RAV4. Following these releases, the L4, an even smaller SUV, is expected to hit the market in 2027.

Chery has also confirmed plans to introduce models such as the L1, L2, L3, and L9 under the Lepas brand, with the possibility of adding a sedan to the lineup. The powertrain options for the Australian market are still uncertain, but Chery currently offers a mix of petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles under its various brands.

The L6, which will be launched in the UK in late 2026, will be available with a pure-electric powertrain featuring a 67kWh battery and 435km of range on the WLTC cycle. Additionally, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system will be offered, providing a total range of 1127km.

Built on an all-new New Energy Vehicle modular platform, the L6 promises a blend of passion and practicality in its design. The brand name “Lepas” is derived from a combination of ‘leopard’ and ‘passion,’ with design elements like LED headlights resembling a leopard’s eye.

The launch of Lepas is part of Chery’s global strategy to expand its presence in various markets. In addition to Lepas, three other brands from the Chery Group are expected to enter the Australian market by the end of 2027. These brands include iCaur, Freelander, and Jetour, each offering unique SUV models with electrified powertrains.

With a focus on design-led SUVs and bold exterior colors, Lepas aims to offer a fresh lineup of vehicles that cater to the diverse needs of Australian consumers. The retail strategy for Lepas in Australia is yet to be confirmed, but it is likely to complement the existing Chery and Omoda Jaecoo brands in the market.

As Chery continues to expand its brand portfolio, including potential entries from brands like Soueast, Luxeed, and Exeed, the Australian automotive market can expect a diverse range of vehicles in the coming years. Whether it’s premium SUVs, electrified models, or light commercial vehicles, Chery is poised to offer a wide selection of vehicles to Australian consumers.