KARACHI: The launch of the Chery Tiggo 9 at Rs13,694,000 has added a new contender to Pakistan’s premium seven-seat SUV market, drawing attention from buyers comparing hybrid technology, cabin space and long-term ownership value. Positioned as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Tiggo 9 enters a price band already occupied by established crossovers such as the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and the Kia Sorento.
For families and urban buyers in the Rs13–14 million range, the decision typically revolves around space, refinement, fuel efficiency, after-sales support and resale confidence. Early feedback on the Tiggo 9 suggests strengths in features and technology, but also raises practical considerations that place it in direct comparison with these rivals.
Practicality: third row and cargo space
The Tiggo 9 is marketed as a seven-seater, but early reviews indicate that its third row is best suited for short trips or younger passengers. With all seven seats in use, luggage capacity is significantly reduced, limiting practicality for longer family journeys.
In contrast, the Santa Fe Hybrid is generally regarded as offering more usable third-row space and better overall cabin flexibility. The Sorento also provides comparatively improved third-row comfort in higher trims, making it more accommodating for adults on moderate trips.
Cargo management becomes a key differentiator in this segment. Buyers who frequently travel with both passengers and luggage may place greater emphasis on real-world boot usability rather than brochure figures.
Driving dynamics and power delivery
The Tiggo 9’s plug-in hybrid system focuses on electrified torque and urban efficiency. PHEV technology allows short electric-only driving under certain conditions, which can reduce fuel consumption in city use.
However, early driving impressions have noted body roll in sharper turns and steering feedback that may not feel as precise as expected in a premium crossover. Reports also mention braking feel that can seem abrupt in some traffic scenarios.
The Santa Fe Hybrid uses a conventional hybrid system that transitions smoothly between electric and petrol modes. It is widely viewed as delivering balanced ride comfort and predictable handling for both city and highway driving.
The Sorento, particularly in its 3.5-litre V6 variant, emphasizes outright petrol performance. It offers stronger acceleration and a more traditional driving response, though fuel efficiency is typically lower than hybrid competitors.
Interior technology and usability
The Tiggo 9 features a technology-forward cabin with large digital displays and touchscreen-based controls. While visually modern, reliance on the central screen for essential functions has been described by some reviewers as less convenient during daily driving.
By comparison, the Santa Fe Hybrid and Sorento combine digital interfaces with physical buttons for frequently used controls. This mixed approach may appeal to drivers who prefer tactile access to climate and audio settings.
Cabin ergonomics, storage compartments and steering adjustment range also influence long-term comfort, particularly for taller drivers and frequent commuters.
After-sales support and resale outlook
Ownership considerations extend beyond features. Hyundai and Kia maintain established dealership networks across major cities, contributing to predictable service access and resale trends in Pakistan’s SUV market.
Chery’s local presence is expanding, and the Tiggo 9 represents its flagship hybrid offering. As a newer entrant in the premium PHEV space, long-term resale patterns and service perceptions will likely evolve over time.
For buyers investing nearly Rs14 million, dealership coverage, parts availability and resale confidence often weigh as heavily as specifications.
Efficiency vs performance: defining buyer priorities
The Tiggo 9’s plug-in hybrid setup may attract buyers prioritizing electrified mobility and urban fuel savings. The Santa Fe Hybrid offers established hybrid refinement and balanced comfort. The Sorento delivers stronger petrol performance and conventional driving dynamics.
Each vehicle addresses a slightly different buyer profile:
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Urban drivers seeking hybrid efficiency may lean toward electrified options.
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Families prioritizing cabin flexibility and smoother ride quality may consider established hybrids.
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Buyers focused on engine power and familiar driving feel may prefer a larger petrol engine.
The broader market context
Pakistan’s upper mid-size SUV segment has grown increasingly competitive, with hybrid and electrified models gaining attention due to fuel prices and environmental considerations. At the same time, buyers in this bracket often prioritize long-term reliability, resale stability and real-world practicality over headline feature lists.
In that context, the Tiggo 9’s arrival adds a technology-focused alternative to the segment. However, comparisons with the Santa Fe Hybrid and Sorento highlight that purchase decisions in this category are shaped by daily usability, driving refinement and ownership confidence as much as specifications.
For prospective buyers, the key question may not be which SUV offers more features on paper, but which aligns best with their usage patterns and long-term expectations.
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