First introduced in April this year as Chery’s new global luxury sub-brand, Lepas is set to make its international debut at the 2025 Indonesia International Auto Show on July 23.
The name Lepas is derived from the combination of two words — “Leap” and “Passion”. The brand will operate exclusively as an international brand just like Jaecoo, and is reportedly focusing its efforts on markets such as the Middle East, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.
According to Chery, the company believes that Indonesia is a pivotal market in Southeast Asia. To that end, the integration of a comprehensive sales and service network in Indonesia will align with the brand’s “In Somewhere, For Somewhere” development philosophy, aiming to meet the specific needs of local consumers.
As for what’s being presented at the upcoming auto show, Lepas will be showcasing an array of SUVs, which include the L4, L6, and the flagship L8 — all of which will be making their first collective international appearance for the brand.
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Speaking of the Lepas L8, which was the first Lepas model to roll off the production line, it is based on the Chery Tiggo 8 Plus in China. Similar in size to the Omoda C9, the L8 is positioned as a D-segment SUV and may also offer an option for three rows of seats.
On the inside, the car features a 15.6-inch central infotainment display that is paired with a 10.25-inch digital cluster display. The centre console is simple and uncluttered, with several cupholders and a wireless charging pad for added convenience. Notable creature comforts include a zero gravity front passenger seat and a 12-speaker Sony sound system.
In China, the Chery Tiggo 8 Plus comes in two powertrain options. The first is a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder making 197 hp and 290 Nm, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The second is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder making 254 hp and 390 Nm, paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Additionally, reports from Chinese media also suggest that plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants may be introduced in the future.
ALSO READ: Chery Super Hybrid PHEV promises 1,200 km of range – Malaysia debut on Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8 PHEV CSH
