Shereen Shabnam
Chery has been expanding its SUV lineup with impressive speed, and the Tiggo 9 represents the pinnacle of the brand’s ambitions. As the largest and most premium model in the Tiggo family, this all-wheel-drive flagship is designed to deliver space, technology, and refinement in a package aimed squarely at buyers who might have never considered a Chinese brand. After a drive in the Tiggo 9 AWD in Dubai, it’s clear Chery is serious about competing in the big leagues.
Exterior
The Tiggo 9 makes a strong first impression with its imposing stance and well-proportioned body. The front fascia features a bold, expansive grille framed by slim matrix LED headlights and dramatic vertical air inlets, giving it a sophisticated yet assertive look. Along the sides, clean body lines and subtle chrome trim convey a sense of understated elegance. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar ties the design together and emphasizes the SUV’s width. Large alloy wheels and flush-fitting door handles complete a design that feels genuinely premium and contemporary.
Interior
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that feels more like a luxury SUV than a budget alternative. The dashboard is dominated by a sweeping curved display that merges the digital instrument cluster with the central infotainment screen. Soft-touch materials cover nearly every surface, complemented by tasteful metal accents and customizable ambient lighting. The seats, upholstered in quilted leather can be heated, ventilated, and offer memory functions. This is useful for our market during summer when we need our seats ventilated. In the second row, there’s generous legroom and even the option for captain’s chairs in some trims. The third row, while tighter, is usable for kids or short trips, adding versatility to this family-friendly package.
Technology
Chery has packed the Tiggo 9 with technology designed to impress. The dual-screen setup delivers sharp graphics and fast responses, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep smartphones fully integrated. A head-up display projects essential driving data onto the windscreen, reducing distraction. Other highlights include a 14-speaker Sony premium audio system, multi-zone climate control, wireless phone charging, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and more. For a vehicle in this price segment, the level of equipment is remarkable.
Performance
Powering the Tiggo 9 AWD is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing around 254 hp and 390 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power delivery is smooth and plentiful, whether you’re merging onto the highway or overtaking slower traffic. The all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of confidence on slippery roads or rougher surfaces. While the Tiggo 9 prioritizes comfort over outright sportiness, the suspension does an admirable job of soaking up imperfections, and the cabin remains hushed even at higher speeds. Steering is light in town but weights up reassuringly on the move, making it easy to maneuver for such a large vehicle.
Our Verdict
With the Tiggo 9 AWD, Chery has set a new benchmark for its brand, and arguably, for value-driven large SUVs in general. It combines head-turning design, a refined and spacious interior, an impressive suite of technology, and strong real-world performance. If you are in the market for a three-row SUV that offers premium features without the premium price tag, the Tiggo 9 deserves to be on your shortlist. It’s proof that Chery is no longer just catching up. They are confidently stepping into the spotlight.
