Lepas L8: full review of the new plug-in hybrid SUV from the Chery Group

The Lepas L8 is the first model from the new Lepas brand, a company created by the Chery Group to strengthen its presence in Europe within the electrified SUV segment. It is a mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV that focuses on a high electric range, modern technology and a proposition aimed at users who want efficiency without giving up space and comfort. This model marks the brand’s commercial debut and positions itself as an interesting alternative in the growing plug-in hybrid SUV market, where competition is increasing and where efficiency and price will be decisive factors for its success.

What kind of car is the Lepas L8 and where does it sit?

The Lepas L8 is a segment D SUV with a length of close to 4.7 metres, which places it in the category of electrified family SUVs. In size and concept it competes with plug-in hybrid models such as its ‘sibling’ the OMODA 7, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, the Kia Sorento PHEV or the Skoda Kodiaq iV.

The model’s proposition focuses on offering a high electric range within its category, together with a very high combined range, which is especially appealing to users who want to make daily trips in electric mode and long journeys without depending on charging points.

Within the group’s positioning, Lepas aims to establish itself as a brand oriented towards advanced electrification and comfort, while other brands from the same manufacturer maintain more differentiated approaches in design or off-road focus.

The target customer is a family user who is looking for:

• generous interior space
• everyday electric efficiency
• modern technology
• a competitive price compared with European rivals

All of this with a proposition that aims to stand out for its balance between performance and efficiency.

Lepas L8 in detail: a complete technical analysis

The Lepas L8 is initially sold with a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and an automatic gearbox specific to hybrid systems. Combined output is around 279 CV with peak torque close to 365 Nm, figures that place it at the upper end of the mainstream PHEV SUV segment.

The battery has an approximate capacity of 18.4 kWh and allows an electric range close to 100 km, a competitive figure within its category. The total combined range can exceed 1,200 km depending on use and conditions.

In terms of consumption, the homologated figure with a discharged battery is around 4.2 l/100 km, while in real-world use it can be expected to be somewhat higher depending on driving style and how the hybrid system is used.

The platform used is a modular electrified architecture from the Chery Group designed to accommodate different electrified propulsion systems. This allows the integration of advanced driver assistance systems and a structure optimised for energy efficiency.

Inside, it opts for a modern design with a strong emphasis on digital screens, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a large central screen for the infotainment system. Perceived quality aims to sit at the segment average, with soft-touch materials in visible areas and a practical approach.

In technology it includes multiple ADAS driver assistance features such as:

• adaptive cruise control
• lane keeping assist
• parking assistant
• automatic emergency braking

In interior space it offers good habitability thanks to its wheelbase of close to 2.8 metres and a boot of around 500 litres, suitable for family use.

The most interesting version in terms of balance appears to be the front-wheel-drive PHEV variant, given its combination of electric range, power and price.

The best

• high electric range
• above-average power
• complete technology equipment

Areas for improvement

• a brand that is still little known
• a sales network still under development

Who this model is for

It is an SUV especially suited to users who want a spacious plug-in hybrid for family use, with enough electric range for everyday driving and enough power for long journeys without giving up performance.

Main technical data

score out of 10 based on the criteria analysed in this article

Alternatives to the Lepas L8

OMODA 7

One of the most recent alternatives within the Chery Group ecosystem. It shares a similar approach to electrification, with a 279 CV plug-in hybrid system.

Kia Sorento PHEV

One of the segment’s benchmarks for space and technology. It offers around 265 CV and an electric range close to 55 km at a higher price than the model analysed. It stands out for its interior quality and size, although it costs more.

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

A large plug-in hybrid SUV with a family focus. It stands out for its interior space and comfort, although its electric range is lower.

Skoda Kodiaq iV

The plug-in hybrid version of the Czech SUV offers good habitability and a practical approach, with moderate consumption and a good overall balance.

Peugeot 5008 Hybrid

An interesting alternative for its interior modularity and family focus with hybrid technology.

Quick technical comparison against its rivals