The 2026 Chery Tiggo V has been revealed at the Beijing motor show, previewing a bold new direction for family SUVs and a potential niche player in the Australian and New Zealand auto markets.
Billed as a “one vehicle for all scenarios”, the Tiggo V blends large seven-seat SUV practicality with ute-like flexibility, thanks to a unique modular design. Like the Deepal E07, its standout feature is the ability to transform from a three-row SUV into a dual-cab ute-like layout.
By removing the rear canopy and third row of seating, owners can create an open cargo area separated from the cabin by a partition. Chery says up to six configurations will be available, including lifestyle-focused setups such as a camper conversion or enclosed cargo module.
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This adaptability is aimed squarely at buyers who want the comfort and refinement of a family SUV for daily driving, but the added versatility to carry larger loads when required.
However, expectations should be tempered. The Tiggo V is unlikely to match the payload or towing capabilities of traditional ladder-frame utes, positioning it as more of a lifestyle alternative than a true workhorse.
Unlike dual-cab staples such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, the Tiggo V rides on a car-style monocoque platform, prioritising on-road comfort and refinement over heavy-duty capability.
In terms of size, the Tiggo V measures more than five metres in length and rides on a 2800mm wheelbase. That makes it slightly larger than the Chery Tiggo 9 large SUV, though still shorter than most dual-cab utes.
Inside, buyers will be able to choose between six- and seven-seat layouts, including a more premium 2+2+2-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs.
The cabin follows Chery’s latest design language, with dual digital displays, physical shortcut controls, and a focus on family-friendly features, including independent second-row seats with 380mm sliding adjustment and no fewer than 42 storage spaces.
These include a rear-mounted fridge, third-row air vents, and a 360-degree camera system with an ‘underfloor’ view to assist with low-speed manoeuvring.
Under the bonnet, Chery is expected to offer a mix of petrol and electrified powertrains. A sixth-generation Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) plug-in hybrid (PHEV) pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors and a battery capable of around 90-100km of electric-only driving.
Total system outputs are expected to range from about 160kW of power to as much as 260kW and 330Nm of torque in higher-spec variants. A conventional 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine will also be sold in some markets.
The PHEV version is claimed to offer average fuel consumption of 6.0L/100km, and the petrol-only variant will consume 7.84L/100km,
Despite its road-focused underpinnings, the Tiggo V claims respectable off-road capability including 220mm of ground clearance and a wading depth of up to 700mm for PHEV variants. That places it closer to soft-roaders than hardcore off-roaders, but should make it capable enough for gravel tracks and other light off-road adventures.
Production is scheduled to begin in China later this year, though local availability for Australia and New Zealand remains unconfirmed.
Chery’s local arm has previously indicated interest in the concept, particularly as a lifestyle-focused complement to its upcoming ladder-frame dual-cab ute, which is due to arrive Down Under in the fourth quarter of this year with plug-in hybrid diesel power.
If it makes it to right-hand drive markets, the Tiggo V could carve out a unique space in the new car market, where it would likely be positioned above the Tiggo 9, which is available here in a single all-wheel drive PHEV variant priced at $59,990 before on-road costs.