In an era where car buyers are increasingly turning to electrification, plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) have surged in popularity. Sales grew by a remarkable 35 per cent in 2025, driven by their promise of blending electric efficiency with petrol-powered range. To separate the marketing hype from reality, we embarked on a unique festive challenge: could a trio of new PHEV SUVs from Chinese automotive giant Chery complete a grand tour of European Christmas markets on a single tank of fuel and a full battery charge?
The Festive Challenge: A Test of Endurance and Efficiency
The mission was straightforward yet demanding: cover over 650 miles in three days, traversing four countries and visiting three iconic Christmas markets, all without refuelling or recharging. The cars in question were Chery's rapidly launched Tiggo SUV family: the Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8, and the new flagship Tiggo 9. These models boast staggering official range figures, from 650 miles for the Tiggo 9 to 750 miles for the Tiggo 7. Our journey would put these claims to a real-world, winter test.
Our adventure began in Kent at the historic Boys Hall hotel, a 17th-century boutique retreat providing a quintessentially British Christmas backdrop. After a final fill-up at a service station near the M20, the three Tiggos—each with fully charged batteries and brimmed fuel tanks—headed for the Eurotunnel, now rebranded as LeShuttle. The efficient 35-minute crossing to Calais marked the start of our continental trek.
Continental Cruising: From Belgian Waffles to German Vineyards
The first leg saw us behind the wheel of the mid-range, seven-seat Chery Tiggo 8 (priced from £33,545). Its 'super-hybrid' system, combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, promised 56 miles of electric-only range and a total of 750 miles. The car's intelligent system seamlessly managed the transition between power sources. Impressively, after the first hundred miles, it was clear the efficiency was matching the hype; we wouldn't need another fuel stop.
Our first festive stop was the stunning Christmas market in Liège, Belgium, complete with Belgian waffles and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views. From there, we switched to the range-topping Chery Tiggo 9 (£43,105). This luxurious seven-seater offers up to 90 miles of electric range and a 650-mile total. It proved a comfortable and well-equipped cruiser for the journey into Germany, along the scenic Moselle River valley under darkness.
Our destination was the picturesque town of Bernkastel-Kues, home to a famously beautiful Christmas market. Alas, we arrived after it had shut, but the charm of the advent calendar-like houses was undeniable. A stay at the modern Hotel Deinhard, with its focus on Riesling wines and stunning river views, provided a perfect respite.
The final day introduced us to the Chery Tiggo 7, the most affordable at £29,995. Sharing its 18kWh battery and 1.5-litre engine with the Tiggo 8, it claims over 700 miles of combined range. It carried us through the beautiful woodlands of southern Germany to our final Christmas market in Heidelberg, another festive gem. The trip concluded at the luxurious Cheneaudiere hotel and spa in Alsace.
The Verdict: Range Claims Confirmed and Festive Spirit Restored
By journey's end, we had covered 637 miles. Crucially, every Chery Tiggo in our convoy still had range remaining, definitively proving that modern PHEVs can achieve their ambitious mileage claims. This was no hypermiling exercise; we drove at normal motorway speeds and enjoyed the twistier sections of the route.
The Chery's super-hybrid technology proved seamless and intelligent, quietly switching between power sources for optimum efficiency. While notes were made on ride comfort and audio systems, the overwhelming impression was of exceptional value for money, high levels of equipment, and impressive build quality.
Beyond the automotive test, the trip championed the joy of the classic European road trip. It demonstrated that winter travel offers its own dramatic beauty and warm welcomes, from Kentish country houses to German hotels. With Chery's rapid expansion in the UK market, these efficient PHEVs might just be the perfect companions for rediscovering the open road—whether your destination is a Christmas market or beyond.
