Chery KP31 ute confirmed for New Zealand

23 February, 2026

Concept Launch Name: Chery KP31
Confirmed for New Zealand late 2026 or early 2027
Concept ute unveiled in Sydney February 2026
2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine plug-in hybrid
1000kg payload and a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity*

The Chery KP31 is a dual-cab utility vehicle concept that previews the brand’s first entry into the global midsize pickup market. Unveiled in Sydney in February 2026, it is set to be the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute.*

Key Specifications & Features*

Specifications still subject to change, but this is what we know:

Powertrain: A 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system. It claims a class-leading thermal efficiency of 47% and a 30% reduction in vibration compared to standard diesel setups.
Capabilities: Targets a 3,500kg braked towing capacity and a 1,000kg payload.
Off-Road Tech: Includes front, centre, and rear locking differentials, a low-range gearbox, and multiple off-road drive modes.
Dimensions: The concept measures 5,610mm in length, though the production version will be slightly shorter at 5,450mm.
Electric Range: Early reports suggest an electric-only range of up to 170km.

Launch & Availability

Australia: Scheduled to arrive in showrooms in Q4 2026.

New Zealand & South Africa: Both markets are confirmed to receive the model, with South Africa expecting a late 2026 or early 2027 launch.
Future Variants: A petrol PHEV version is confirmed to join the lineup in 2027.