Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max: Buy?

So, you’re thinking about the Chery Tiggo EIGHT PRO MAX? Great! But before you hand over your hard-earned cash, let’s talk about some things you might not find in the glossy brochures. We’re going to dive into some potential downsides, some things that might make you think twice before taking the plunge.

First off, how does it compare to its sibling, the Tiggo EIGHT PRO e+? Honestly, some owners feel the e+ offers a better overall package. While the MAX boasts some extra features, the e+ often gets praised for its smoother driving experience and, in some cases, better fuel economy. It really comes down to prioritizing features versus overall performance and efficiency. Think carefully about what’s most important to you – is that extra screen real estate worth a potential trade-off in other areas? Do your research and compare specs side-by-side; don’t just rely on marketing materials.

Next, let’s address the elephant in the room: transmission issues. There have been reports of transmission failures in some Tiggo EIGHT PRO MAX vehicles. Now, this isn’t to say every car will have this problem, but it’s a significant enough concern that it warrants investigation. Before you buy, I strongly recommend checking online forums and owner reviews to get a sense of the scale of this issue. Look for patterns – are certain build years or mileage ranges more prone to problems? Talking to owners directly can provide invaluable insights that you won’t find in official documentation. Don’t be afraid to ask pointed questions about their experiences with the transmission.

Another point worth mentioning is the car’s tendency to… well, drive away. I’ve seen reports of instances where the car has unexpectedly rolled away while parked, even with the parking brake engaged. This is a serious safety concern, and it’s crucial to understand the potential causes and preventative measures. Again, online forums and owner groups are your friends here. Find out if there are any known issues with the parking brake system, and if Chery has addressed them with recalls or software updates. This is something you absolutely need to get clarified before committing to a purchase.

Then there’s the START/STOP system. While intended to improve fuel efficiency, many owners find the Tiggo EIGHT PRO MAX’s implementation rather jarring and unpredictable. It can be overly aggressive, cutting the engine at inopportune moments, leading to a jerky and uncomfortable driving experience. Some find it difficult to get used to, while others find it downright annoying. If you’re sensitive to this kind of thing, I’d suggest test driving the car extensively to see if you can tolerate the START/STOP system. Consider whether the minor fuel savings are worth the potential frustration.

Finally, let’s talk about something a little less critical, but still worth noting: fingerprints. Yes, fingerprints. The glossy surfaces on the dashboard and infotainment screen are absolute fingerprint magnets. They show every smudge and mark, requiring constant cleaning to maintain a presentable look. This might seem trivial, but for some, it can be a real annoyance. If you’re someone who values a clean and unblemished interior, this is something to keep in mind. Consider whether you’re willing to put up with the constant cleaning, or if it’s a deal-breaker for you.

So, let’s dive straight into the nitty-gritty of the Chery Tiggo EIGHT Pro Max, focusing on some areas that haven’t always received glowing reviews. We’ll start with something seemingly minor, but which some owners have found surprisingly frustrating: the wipers. Now, I know what you’re thinking – wipers? But hear me out. Several owners have reported issues with the thoughtfulness, or lack thereof, of the wiper system. It doesn’t always seem to react appropriately to varying weather conditions, sometimes leaving streaks or failing to clear the windshield effectively, especially in heavy rain. This isn’t a catastrophic failure, but it’s a persistent annoyance that can impact safety and driving comfort. And it’s something you should definitely be aware of before you buy.

Another feature that’s received mixed feedback is the lane-keeping system. While the intention is good – to help keep you safely within your lane – the execution, in some instances, has been less than perfect. Some owners report it being overly sensitive, constantly beeping and correcting even when there’s plenty of space, while others find it too sluggish to react to lane changes, leaving them feeling a little uneasy. It’s a system that, for some, adds to the driving experience, but for others, it’s more of a distraction or even a source of frustration. It’s definitely something to test thoroughly during a test drive.

Now, let’s move on to some more significant concerns. One of the most frequently mentioned drawbacks is the lack of noise insulation. This isn’t just a minor hum; some owners describe the cabin noise as intrusive, particularly at higher speeds. Road noise, engine noise, and wind noise all seem to penetrate the cabin more than you might expect in a vehicle of this price range. This can be a real deal-breaker for those who value a quiet and refined driving experience. It’s something you absolutely need to experience firsthand before committing to a purchase.

And while we’re talking about interior issues, let’s address the reported rattles and squeaks. Several owners have mentioned annoying rattles emanating from various parts of the cabin, particularly from the dashboard and door panels. These aren’t just occasional occurrences; they seem to be a persistent problem for a significant number of owners. This points to potential quality control issues during the manufacturing process. Again, a test drive is crucial here to get a feel for the overall build quality.

Then there’s the issue of the lockers. Several reports mention that the lockers have holes in them, which is a significant design flaw. This is not only aesthetically unappealing but also raises concerns about the overall quality and attention to detail in the manufacturing process. It’s a small detail, but it speaks volumes about the potential for other, more serious, issues.

Moving onto something far more serious: brake malfunctions. While not a widespread issue, there have been reports of brake problems, which is obviously a major safety concern. Any issues with braking should be taken extremely seriously. If you encounter any problems with the brakes during your test drive, do not hesitate to walk away. Your safety should always be the top priority.

Finally, let’s talk about additional costs. While the initial purchase price might seem attractive, be prepared for potential additional expenses. Some owners have reported needing repairs or replacements sooner than expected, which can quickly add up. Factor in potential maintenance costs and the possibility of needing repairs beyond the standard warranty period when budgeting for this vehicle. It’s crucial to factor in these potential hidden costs to get a true picture of the overall ownership experience.