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Chery Tiggo rEV LE PHEV

- By ERIC R. TIPAN

When my editor asked me to review this Tiggo, I wasn't expecting much. The rEV model name tells me it's a hybrid, but with Chinese marques, electrified vehicles are a dime a dozen.

I realized how different this vehicle was when I saw it for the first time. Don't get me wrong. The overall shape remains very Tiggo-like, albeit just a bit wider and longer because it is a seven-seater crossover. What made me double-take is the latest version of the Diamond Accent grille, but in this case, it's not really a grille. The nose is fully encased and flanked by steering-responsive LED headlights. Chery designers incorporated air intakes on either side and a slim lower grille to cool the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Except for the nose job, the exterior of the Tiggo rEV LE is typical of Chery models. It has an aerodynamic shape, slim body cladding, ornamental roof rails (so don't expect it to carry a heavy load), and a panoramic sunroof. The rear has a roof spoiler, a height-adjustable power tailgate, and LED taillights. The FWD system sits on 18-inch, two-tone alloy wheels. There really isn't a lot to gawk at on its body, but the design isn't really what makes this vehicle special and fun to drive.