Chinese automotive manufacturers are making significant inroads into the UK market, with a growing range of plug-in hybrid SUVs capturing buyer attention. As an EV editor, I recently spent a week driving the Chery Tiggo 7, a model that exemplifies this trend with its competitive pricing and feature-rich offering.
The Rise of Chinese Plug-In Hybrids in Britain
The Chery Tiggo 7 forms part of an expanding segment of approximately £30,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs gaining popularity among UK motorists. This category includes models like the seven-seat Tiggo 8, BYD Sealion 5, Geely Starray, Omoda 7 from the Chery group, and the MG HS. These vehicles consistently deliver strong specification levels, impressive efficiency, solid build quality, and exceptional value for money, explaining their increasing demand.
Plug-in hybrid sales surged by 35 percent in 2025, reflecting broader consumer shift towards electrified vehicles. However, distinguishing between these similarly positioned Chinese models often proves challenging, with differences typically emerging in subtle variations of price, specification packages, and official efficiency ratings.
Brand Perception and Public Reactions
Brand recognition remains a crucial factor, where MG benefits from its established UK presence and immediate name familiarity. During my week with the Tiggo 7, I observed fascinating reactions from various observers. One automotive industry friend initially mistook it for an Infiniti, noting the badge appeared familiar and the styling carried "very Audi" characteristics.
Another industry contact thoroughly examined the interior, describing it as "a bit BMW" while attempting to identify quality shortcomings – none were found. They also praised the technology implementation, observing that the over-zealous warning beeps that plagued earlier Chinese models have been appropriately moderated.
Family Feedback and Practical Considerations
I took my car-owning children for extended drives to gather broader perspectives. After a 405-mile round trip to Liverpool, my son noted we retained over 100 miles of fuel range, though he felt the seats could offer greater comfort for such lengthy journeys.
My daughter, considering upgrading from her MINI to accommodate a growing Labrador puppy, had been eyeing a Volkswagen Tiguan. She expressed disbelief when learning the Tiggo 7 starts below £25,000 for petrol versions and under £30,000 as a plug-in hybrid, with particularly attractive leasing costs. As a brand-conscious 27-year-old, she acknowledged a friend's positive experience with an MG made Chinese brands seem increasingly viable, responding "why not?" when asked about their appeal.
Evaluating Chinese Cars Against European Rivals
Certain areas reveal where Chinese models still trail European competitors. Ride quality immediately comes to mind based on my Tiggo 7 experience and recent time in the BYD Sealion 7. Surprisingly, given China's technological focus, some interfaces demonstrate usability shortcomings despite generally impressive feature sets.
These limitations aren't necessarily deal-breakers. The Tiggo 7's ride remains perfectly acceptable, and much of the technology benefits from over-the-air update capabilities. What becomes impossible to overlook is the extraordinary value proposition – the combination of pricing, efficiency, specification, and build quality creates genuine showroom appeal.
The Personal Verdict: Would I Buy One?
When my daughter turned the question back to me – would I purchase a Chinese car? – my answer is affirmative. I would exercise careful selection, as some models demonstrate greater strengths than others, but with value high among my priorities, these emerging brands present compelling propositions.
Many British drivers already operate Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles without realisation. The MINI Aceman, various Polestar models, several Lotus vehicles, and earlier Tesla productions all originated from Chinese factories, demonstrating that build quality can indeed meet exacting standards.
The automotive landscape continues evolving rapidly, with Chinese manufacturers increasingly challenging established norms through competitive pricing and technological innovation. For value-conscious buyers willing to consider emerging brands, the current offerings warrant serious consideration alongside traditional European alternatives.
