Chery’s premium Lepas brand will open pre-orders for its flagship L8 hybrid SUV in July, with pricing starting at £34,900. The seven-seat family SUV targets plug-in versions of the Volkswagen Tiguan, Kia Sportage and Skoda Kodiaq.
Lepas represents Chery Group’s premium offering in the UK market. The Chinese automotive giant already sells Jaecoo, Omoda and Chery models across Britain.
The 4.7-meter L8 shares its platform with the Jaecoo 7, Chery Tiggo 8 and Omoda 7. All four vehicles use Chery’s “Super-Hybrid” plug-in system.
Powertrain and Range
The hybrid system combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and 18.4kWh battery pack. Lepas claims up to 56 miles of electric-only driving range.
Total combined range reaches 745 miles according to company figures.
A fully electric L8 variant will follow in 2027. First customer deliveries for the hybrid version begin in September.
Pricing and Trim Levels
Two specification levels will be available at launch. The Essence grade starts at £34,900, while Elevate pricing begins at £37,900.
Wheel designs provide the main external distinction between trims – 19-inch diamond cut alloys come standard on Essence models, with 20-inch designs reserved for Elevate variants.
Both specifications include adaptive LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and keyless entry. The 13.2-inch infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Elevate adds premium features including a hands-free power tailgate and heated windscreen. Power-adjustable front seats provide heating, cooling and massage functions.
The higher trim also brings a 540-degree parking camera system, active noise cancellation technology and Sony audio. Full synthetic leather upholstery completes the Elevate package.
Market Positioning
Lepas positions the L8 as specifically “designed from the wheels up for Europe” with enhancements for UK road conditions. The brand emphasizes luxury and refinement as key differentiators from mainstream Chinese EV offerings.
The hybrid powertrain has shown promise in testing with the related Chery Tiggo 7 platform.
Lepas plans to expand its UK lineup following the L8’s introduction. The smaller L6 and L4 SUVs will join the range in subsequent launches, though timing remains unconfirmed.
The L8’s arrival continues the rapid expansion of Chinese automotive brands in the UK market, particularly in the hybrid and electric vehicle segments where traditional European manufacturers face increasing competition.
