First Drive: 2024 Chery Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid

Good made better: Driving the 2023 Chery Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid from Manila to Pampanga and Tarlac

I never thought I'd get behind the wheel of a Chery and actually enjoy driving it. Yes, there was a time when the name Chery meant something else entirely – mostly negative. But today, things are (very) different for Chery.

Ever since the brand was picked up by United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI) back in late 2019, not only has Chery risen from the ashes, their vehicles have become better in quality, style, and technology. Backed up by a 1-million-km/10-year engine warranty, a 5-year/150,000 km general warranty, a 3-year free PMS, and then some. Now, Chery vehicles have a lot more to offer.

More recently, however, the brand relaunched itself and is heading towards a new direction; green mobility. With automakers continuing to launch electrified vehicles left and right, Chery has decided to expand its offering of electrified vehicles. Enter the 2024 Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid.

First launched last July 2023 alongside the Tiggo 7 Pro Hybrid, Chery wants to get a bigger slice of the B-SUV pie while also offering a more feature-packed crossover that's quick while easy on the fuel bills. Will the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid be able to impress?

Chery Auto Philippines recently invited us for a day drive to Pampanga to get more familiar with the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid. But truth be told, this is not exactly our first time with the vehicle. Back in 2020, we actually got to drive the crossover for the first time when it was simply called the Tiggo 5X. While it impressed us with its long list of features, acceptable handling, and decent ride quality, the 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine disappointed us with its performance and fuel economy figures.

That all changed in the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid with its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder assisted by a 48V mild-hybrid system. With a more capable powertrain under the hood making 156 PS with 230 Nm and a 9-speed CVT driving the front wheels, I was more than eager to get behind the wheel.

But first, we had to contend with early morning rush hour traffic along Commonwealth and Elliptical Road. While some might say this is not the most ideal of conditions to test a vehicle, I beg to disagree. With Metro Manila traffic sometimes at a standstill, it's only right that I get to test the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid on such traffic conditions. It also gives me an excuse to check out the crossover's ride quality.

After meeting up at Chery Commonwealth and having breakfast, we took off for Pampanga. With some stop-and-go traffic on our way to NLEX, I was initially expecting the CVT to have the infamous “rubber band” effect while I tried and snake my way out of traffic. Surprisingly, however, the CVT remained smooth and composed. It was able to deliver the power from the engine without having to hold the revs – resulting in a more linear feel. The turbocharged engine was also able to provide enough pep without being too sluggish which is a big upgrade over the non-turbo version.

Once we managed to get through Commonwealth, Elliptical Road, and EDSA, we finally reached NLEX where we were able to have a bit more (responsible) fun with the Tiggo 5X Pro. With the roads opening up, it was only natural for us to get up-to-speed with the crossover. Put your foot down and the turbocharged four-cylinder sends power to the wheels with gusto, albeit with some minor delay since the drive mode is set for Eco which coincidentally is also its Normal mode.

Once I switched it to Sport mode, the response from the engine and CVT became livelier while acceleration became sharper. More importantly, there was no more delay in response which dampened the driving experience earlier in Eco mode.

As far as ride quality is concerned, I do have to commend Chery for making the riding comfort better than before. It's a little bit on the firmer side but it's not jarring or stiff. It's pliant which complements the turbocharged powertrain as it doesn't wallow that much. However, the true test will be when I get to sit in the back which I'll get to later.

When it came to handling, the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid also impressed. Turn the wheel in and the vehicle just follows through with minimal body roll. There’s also the fact that it comes with a multi-link rear suspension which aids in providing better agility through the bends, as well as improved ride quality. However, I wish Chery made its steering deliver more feedback as it felt vague most of the time. But since the crossover is geared towards comfort rather than outright sporty driving, I may be being nitpicky.

After a couple of hours, we arrived at our first stop, My Lola Nor's 301 in Mabalacat, Pampanga. Despite being behind the wheel of the Tiggo 5X Pro for just several hours, I'll admit I was impressed with what Chery has done to improve its drivability. I wasn't able to closely monitor the fuel economy figures during city and highway driving, but I was able to get an average fuel economy of around 14 to 15 km/L in mixed driving conditions. That alone is a testament to the Tiggo 5X Pro's hybrid system and Chery's new direction of green mobility. We'll get to test the crossover's fuel exact figures when we get to review it.

Despite having the “Hybrid” name, the system used by the Tiggo 5X Pro is a mild hybrid. It has an integrated 48V belt-starter generator (BSG) which helps deliver a smoother drive while also reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption. It may not be the same “strong” hybrid system used by other automakers, but it’s a start for Chery to bring in more fuel-efficient powertrains that can cater to the Philippine market.

After eating some good Kapampangan cuisine, it was now my time to take a break and sit at the back and let my companions do the driving. Of course, this allowed me to feel the ride quality while examining the car’s interior and features. Initially, I was expecting a bouncier ride but I’m happy to report that it was not the case. Sure, it’s also on the firmer side but the ride quality is good. Combined with the comfortable seats I didn’t mind someone else driving the vehicle.

All of the seats are upholstered in leather (i.e. leatherette) and are complemented by streaks of red accents that give the cabin a sportier look and feel. The overall look and quality of the leatherette were good and smooth to the touch. Speaking of touch, I was surprised Chery put soft-touch materials inside the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid.

Normally, you’d expect to see, feel, and hear the scratchy noise of hard (i.e. cheap) plastic all around the interior of B-segment SUVs. Chery decided to not go that route and instead offer a quality vehicle that also gets a padded-like dashboard and soft-touch fabric on the door panels, too.

Someone at Chery wanted to give customers a cabin that looks and feels more upmarket than your typical B-segment crossover SUV. Combined with the use of high-gloss black accents, a sunroof, LED ambient lighting, and faux metal trim pieces, you have yourself a crossover that looks and feels more upscale despite being built to meet a price point.

After several more hours, we arrived at A.A. Leisure Farm in Bamban, Tarlac which is just across the border of Pampanga. There, amongst the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, we were able to appreciate and take a good look at the body of the stylish Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid. While some might say it still looks similar to the previous Tiggo 5X, the automaker made some key changes to make it stand out.

For starters, it gets the Diamond Galaxy grille upfront which looks quite similar to the Sunshine Galaxy grille on the Tiggo 7 Pro Hybrid. Then there are the LED headlights and LED daytime running lights on the bumper which not only give the crossover a more discerning look, but they also provide better illumination at night. In case you haven’t noticed them yet, the crossover comes with huge 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels which greatly give the vehicle a better look. Last but not least are the taillights which now have a smoked finish.

While Chery could have gone overboard in redesigning the crossover, I was more impressed by the fact that they were able to enhance its looks while only applying little changes. It may not be the flashiest of B-segment crossover SUVs in the market when compared to its rivals like the MG ZS T, Geely Coolray, and the GAC GS3 Emzoom, but the Tiggo 5X Pro still stands out with its boxier proportions, unique styling elements, and those massive 18-inch wheels that make the vehicle look bigger than its actual size.

After spending a long quality day with the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid from Metro Manila to Pampanga and then Tarlac, I have to say that I am impressed with what Chery was able to deliver. What was already available as a value-packed crossover has been upgraded with a turbocharged mild-hybrid engine, better driving dynamics, and a more stylish interior & exterior.

Add to that the availability of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a power sunroof, a full-leather interior, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, and a price tag of PHP 1.140 million, the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid has plenty going for it.

Should you test drive or just short-list the Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid? Do both but I won't be surprised if it ends up as one of your top choices in the B-crossover SUV segment.