Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Pro / Pro Max I (T18) Review — Specs, Prices, Features & U.S. Auto News | automotive24.center

Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I (T18) — Generation Review

The Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I generation (T18 index) has been in production since 2018 and remains a relevant model in the Chinese brand’s lineup today

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The vehicle officially debuted in April 2018 at the Beijing Auto Show, with first sales in Europe beginning in 2020 in select countries. The model arrived in the United States in 2019 through official Chery dealers, along with parallel imports from China and the EU.

The Tiggo 8 is built on the T1X platform developed by Chery for mid-size crossovers with a transverse engine layout and available front- or all-wheel drive.

In the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I lineup, it is positioned as a mid-size crossover above the Tiggo 7 and below the Tiggo 9. The model targets buyers looking for a spacious, tech-loaded vehicle ideal for family use. Key highlights of the generation include its angular design with LED lighting, turbocharged engines, CVT or DCT transmission, and a comprehensive safety and comfort package that includes an available 7-seat interior.

What’s New Compared to the Previous Generation

The earlier Chery Tiggo lineup included more compact models like the Tiggo 7 (2016–present), but the Tiggo 8 marked a major step forward. The exterior became bolder and more substantial, evolving from a compact silhouette to an elongated body with a large grille, slim headlights, and rugged plastic cladding. At 4,700 mm long (versus 4,500 mm in the Tiggo 7), it provides noticeably more interior space for seven passengers.

The all-new T1X platform delivers higher body rigidity and improved noise insulation. Technology upgrades brought fresh turbo engines (1.5T producing 147 hp, 1.6T with 197 hp, and 2.0T delivering 254 hp), paired with a CVT or 7-speed DCT, plus an available all-wheel-drive system on Pro Max models. The suspension (MacPherson struts in front and multi-link rear) was refined for superior ride comfort.

Interior comfort reached a new level with premium soft-touch materials and enhanced sound deadening. Safety was significantly upgraded with advanced driver aids such as automatic emergency braking, 6–7 airbags, and a 5-star C-NCAP rating. Overall, the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I generation became far more family-oriented and technologically advanced, especially in the Pro and Pro Max export versions.

Current Status of the Generation

As of early 2026, the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I remains a relevant model with updates from 2023–2025. The 2023 Pro Max restyling introduced refreshed headlights, grille, and bumpers, plus upgraded multimedia with a 12.3-inch screen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and new options like adaptive suspension. In 2025, mild-hybrid variants were added for better efficiency.

Current versions include the Tiggo 8, 8 Plus, 8 Pro, and Pro Max with gasoline engines: 1.5T (147 hp), 1.6T (197 hp), 2.0T (254 hp), and in select regions a 1.5T hybrid setup producing 238 hp combined. Transmissions are a 6-speed manual, CVT, or 7-speed DCT, with front-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD on Pro Max). Some regions see a 2.0L diesel (150 hp) via imports from China, though it is not widely offered. Early naturally aspirated 2.0L versions have been discontinued. Today’s primary configurations are the 2.0T with 7-DCT and AWD in Pro Max, and the 1.6T with DCT in Pro models.

U.S. Market

On the U.S. market, the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I continues to be a popular choice in the Chinese crossover segment. As of early 2026, there are roughly 150–200 current listings on major platforms such as Autotrader and Cars.com. New vehicles are available through dealers, and fresh imports from China arrive regularly.

The used market is active, with most vehicles from 2019–2024 model years showing mileage between 30,000 and 95,000 miles and remaining in solid condition thanks to their import origins. Approximate market price for the United States (depending on condition, year, mileage, and trim):

Year Trim / Engine Price (USD)
2019–2020 1.5T / Comfort $15,000 – $18,000
2021–2022 1.6T / Premium $18,000 – $22,000
2023–2024 2.0T / Pro Max $22,000 – $28,000
2025–2026 (new) 1.6T Pro Max / top spec $25,000 – $32,000+

The most sought-after versions are those with the 1.6T engine and DCT in Premium or Pro Max trims, along with 2022–2024 models showing under 60,000 miles and all-wheel drive.

Main Versions and Trims in the U.S. Market

Typical trims of the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I available in the U.S. market include Comfort (base), Premium (mid-level), and Pro Max (top-tier).

Base Comfort: fabric or synthetic leather upholstery, plastic accents, 10.25-inch multimedia screen, air conditioning, basic driver aids (ABS, ESP, 6 airbags), standard suspension, and 18-inch wheels.

Premium: leather upholstery, upgraded materials, 12.3-inch multimedia with navigation, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, parking assist, and optional packages (360° camera).

Pro Max: premium Alcantara trim, Bose audio, ventilated seats, full suite of driver aids (adaptive cruise control), standard panoramic roof, and 19-inch wheels. For the U.S. market, versions often include imported hybrid powertrains plus optional cold-weather packages (heated seats and steering wheel) and advanced safety features.

Final Thoughts and Relevance of the Generation

Today, the Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max I is an excellent fit for family buyers who want a spacious crossover packed with modern technology. The model delivers strong value for those who appreciate Chinese brands offering generous equipment levels at competitive prices.

A new vehicle is the better choice if you want full warranty coverage and the latest updates, while a well-maintained used example can save you 20–30% and still feel fresh—especially 2022–2024 models with verified service records.

The generation stays competitive thanks to the solid T1X platform and efficient turbo engines. When shopping on the U.S. market, focus on:

  • verified service history (regular maintenance);
  • condition of the suspension and DCT transmission (check for wear);
  • mileage and accident-free record (run a Carfax report);
  • country of origin (China often means better value).

The Chery Tiggo 8 / 8 Plus / 8 Pro / Pro Max review shows the model remains a strong contender well into 2026.