Scaling Mountains: The Potential of Chery’s Off-Road SUV

Chery, the renowned automotive manufacturer, has officially announced the addition of a dual-cab ute to its product lineup by the end of 2026. This new model will debut with a cutting-edge plug-in hybrid diesel powertrain, promising exceptional off-road capabilities.

Although the specific name of the upcoming Chery ute has not been revealed yet, it is evident that the company has dedicated substantial resources to the development of this vehicle. This suggests that the advanced powertrain and off-road features may be extended to other models in the future.

When questioned by CarExpert about the potential launch of an SUV variant to rival the Ford Everest, Chery executives chose to remain discreet about their plans.

The talented artist Theottle has provided digital illustrations offering a sneak peek into what a seven-seat off-road SUV from Chery might look like. Similar to the ute, internally known as KP31, the SUV could potentially be the first in its category to be equipped with a diesel engine combined with plug-in hybrid technology, giving it a significant edge over competitors using small petrol engines.

Although detailed specifications of the ute are yet to be disclosed by Chery, it is confirmed that the model will feature front, center, and rear locking differentials, various off-road terrain modes, and a low-range gearbox.

Rumors suggest that Chery is also developing a feature that enables the vehicle to execute tight turns on loose surfaces, akin to Ford’s Trail Turn Assist.

Lucas Harris, the Chief Operating Officer of Chery Australia, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering real-world capability, reliability, and innovation in the realm of new energy and intelligent utes. He stressed the importance of utilizing practical and proven technologies that cater to the needs of customers.

As for the possibility of an off-road SUV stemming from the forthcoming ute, Chery has not yet confirmed any plans, indicating that such a model may not hit the market until 2027.

For those eager to delve deeper into Chery’s offerings, exploring the Chery showroom is highly recommended. Stay tuned for more updates on Chery’s exciting developments in the automotive industry.