Chery Tiggo 8 crowned ‘Car of the Year 2026’ by Carwow

25 November, 2025

When a car-buying platform as influential as Carwow puts its stamp of approval on a model, the automotive world listens. In November 2025 the Tiggo 8 was awarded Carwow’s coveted “Car of the Year” title – and it’s a significant milestone, not just for the model but for its manufacturer.

For New Zealander’s seeking outstanding value in a seven-seater SUV — this news is worth reading. Below, we’ll explore why the Tiggo 8 won, what it offers, and what this means for the NZ new-car market (particularly for businesses and families).

Read the Carwow review here

View the Carwow video review

Where to buy the Tiggo 8

Why the Tiggo 8 Won Carwow’s Top Award

Carwow’s editorial team spoke in no uncertain terms: the Tiggo 8 is “one of those cars that seems almost too good to be true”. Here are the key reasons:

1. Outstanding value for money

Carwow emphasised that despite a premium feel, the Tiggo 8 “costs about the same as a European hatchback”. The Tiggo 8 is available in NZ from $51,990+orc.

2. True seven-seater practicality

With third-row seating and a substantial wheelbase (2,710 mm) and overall length of 4,725 mm, it delivers family-friendly versatility.

3. Modern hybrid/plug-in technology

The model in the UK market with a plug-in hybrid version (battery capacity 18.4 kWh) offering about 56 miles of electric-only range. This equates to a 1200km combined range for Kiwi drivers.

4. Strong feature content

The Tiggo 8 comes with large dual screens, wireless phone charging, 540-degree camera view, adaptive cruise, and so on.

5. New brand momentum + market impact

Similar to the massive impact Chery has made on the NZ market, Carwow emphasised that Chery is making its mark in the UK market, signalling that “if a Chinese car was ever going to conquer the market, it should be this one.”