Chery’s new Tiggo 7 Pro Max AWD offers a robust 1.6 litre turbo-petrol engine under the bonnet that produces a very impressive 145kW and 290Nm of torque. The performance of this remarkable engine is second to none, and easily gives vehicles with larger engines a good run for their money. Taking the Pro Max 7 AWD for a test drive around the capital this weekend, it was quite evident why the outstanding engine performance was proudly displayed by the 290T logo on the boot. 

The exceptional engine of the Tiggo 7 Pro Max AWD made me question if the combination of the dual wet clutch seven-speed DCT transmission, ensuring an exhilarating drive for AWD models, was even street legal because of the amazing acceleration and white-knuckle top speeds. Perhaps even more impressive is that Chery offers a 1 million kilometre or 10 years engine warranty. 

The Tiggo 7 Pro Max, available from Chery Namibia, which is part of the massive M&Z Group, offers a cutting-edge all-wheel drive system, and versatile six driving modes that are easily accessible with the turn of the mode selection knob. The driving styles are Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Muddy and Off-road, each with unique characteristics for pure comfort and adventurous reliability, providing complete driver control for a smooth and all-wheel drive responsive ride. 

Perhaps what makes the Tiggo 7 Pro Max AWD so responsive is the fact it uses the 1.6-litre turbopetrol motor and dual-clutch transmission from its big brother, the Tiggo 8 Pro. In addition, the Tiggo 7 Pro Max is also the first model in the Chery Namibia lineup with an all-wheel drive system. This caters to small families and budding adventurers wanting to access routes and areas a little too rugged for the majority of front-wheel-drive SUVs.

On the exterior, the new Tiggo’s grille with a dark gloss black polycarbonate weave and chrome diamond-shaped accents exude pure confidence in a brand that re-entered the Namibian market last year. The Tiggo’s “Angel Wings” LED headlamps add exceptional creativity when it engages in a unique light-up sequence when the key is detected. Moreover, 19-inch alloy wheels with a deep-dish pattern on the AWD models, project dominance on the road. 

Accordingt to Chery’s chairman, the company relies on the constant pursuit of technological innovation. In fact, the chairman recently stated that Chery has become the first passenger vehicle enterprise in China to master the core technology of engine, gearbox, chassis, platform and new energy. I must admit that he was not wrong, because the magnificence of the Tiggo 7 Pro Max does not end with the engine, but continues with its technological evolution. One of the most impressive high-tech features is voice control that is able to control a wide range of feature on the vehicle. 

On the interior, a huge 24.6-inch curved hyperboloid screen is the central hub for vehicle information, climate control and entertainment. This enables occupants to stay connected with wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The smart entertainment system is complemented by a crystal-clear premium 8-speaker SONY sound system.

In terms of safety features, the Tiggo 7 Pro Max’s occupants are protects by eight airbags, and the level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) offering 17 intelligent safety features. These include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). 

Additional safety features include dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, ABR with traction control, hill ascent and descent assist, and rear parking sensors. The new TIGGO 7 Pro Max also provides standard tyre pressure monitoring, keyless access with a Start/Stop button, central locking, and automatic speed-sensitive locking. 

The Tiggo 7 Pro Max is equipped with a panoramic sunroof to make the driving experience that much more exciting. 

However, one slight distraction while driving the Tiggo 7 Pro Max was the quite sensitive driver monitoring system. This system informs the driver when the Tiggo believes the driver is distracted while driving, which happens more frequently than desired, or when the car ahead has driven off.