CHERY has introduced that it’ll launch its offshoot Lepas model into the Australian market in 2026, bringing with it a “new era of daring, design-led SUVs that mix ardour with practicality and converse to drivers in search of extra than simply performance”.
Launched globally earlier this 12 months, Lepas is alleged to mix the phrases ‘leap’ and ‘ardour’ in an try to focus on a youthful viewers. It is going to be a part of a set of Chery manufacturers that embody Aiqar, Exeed, Exlantix, Himla, iCar, Jaecoo, Jetour, Kaiyi, Karry, Luxeed, Omoda, Rely, and others.
Whereas the Chinese language importer has not confirmed which fashions it intends to supply regionally, provided photographs of the L8 mid-sized SUV recommend that mannequin is the primary cab off the rank.
The Lepas L8 is alleged to supply leopard-like aesthetics with modern styling and modern lighting signatures that concentrate on “next-generation city elites”. It debuted in April this 12 months and has made its manner into choose markets in Africa, Asia, and Russia, with extra to come back.
The producer says it hopes to promote into a complete of 45 international locations by the tip of 2027.
The 2026 Lepas L8 is on the market with inside combustion (a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol), plug-in hybrid, and battery electrical drivelines, although it’s unclear which of those choices might be supplied in Australia.
Lepas mentioned earlier that it plans to supply 5 different fashions throughout its vary inside three years and goals to promote 500,000 items globally by 2028.
Whereas it’s not identified which order the automobiles might be launched, GoAuto understands these will embody the L6, L4, L3, L2, and L1, assumedly with every quantity reflecting the dimensions and place of the automobile inside the Lepas vary.
“Lepas is about extra than simply transport, it’s about expression, emotion and power,” mentioned Lepas Australia chief working officer Lucas Harris.
“Australian SUV patrons have had practicality coated for years. What they’ve been lacking is character. Lepas delivers each.
“Breaking away from the traditional, responsible-but-boring SUV class, Lepas introduces a brand new period of mobility, one which feels pretty much as good because it features.
“From expressive design to vibrant color palettes and driver-focused interiors, each element of a Lepas SUV is constructed to encourage individuality and pleasure.”
Whereas we must wait till near the mannequin’s Australian launch to study extra about its pricing, specification, and availability, Mr Harris says the longer term mannequin will mix the flexibility and reliability anticipated of an SUV with superior options designed for city and suburban dwelling.
“Prospects can count on a set of recent applied sciences, premium design components and sensible comforts to go well with on a regular basis wants,” he added.
“We’re thrilled to deliver Lepas to Australia, a market that values each life-style and practicality.
“Lepas is a model for many who need to dwell life with confidence, color and magnificence.”
