While Malaysians have to sit out from the highest range Pro versions of Geely models (looking at you Boyue Pro and Binyue Pro), it's a very different story for Chery and their imminent debut in Malaysia in Q3 2022.
Chery previewed the Tiggo 8 Pro to Indonesian media a couple of weeks ago
Chery will be debuting not one, but three Pro-badged models upon their return to Malaysia later this year, including the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro.
This is marks a very different strategy compared to their fellow countrymen Geely and their local partner Proton, who have yet to introduce Pro variants of their models.
What is the Pro version of Chery's model supposed to be?
The short and simple answer is that Chery’s Pro line-up are its most updated and most featured-packed models, and Chery has seen fit to offer their most equipped models to overseas customers.
More importantly, Chery offers support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on their export models, including the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 7 Pro, and Tiggo 8 Pro.
Chery Tiggo 8's luxurious cabin
The same cannot be said for Geely / Proton, which until today, still has yet to offer this modern-day feature on any of their models.
Chery Tiggo 7 Pro pictured
Right-hand drive markets like South Africa and Indonesia have already, or will be launching various Chery models over the next few months.
What about Geely?
The handsome Geely Boyue Pro isn't offered here
Recall that Geely currently offers Pro variants of their SUVs, including the Geely Boyue Pro (Proton X70 to us) and Geely Binyue Pro (Proton X50 to us).
The just-launched Geely Binyue Pro facelift
Despite both the X50 and X70 tracing their roots to the aforementioned SUVs, there has been no indication of Proton having plans to introduce Pro variants of the X50 and X70. While the facelifted Proton X70 is on the horizon, we doubt that the model will be getting the suave Boyue Pro’s looks and features.
Boyue Pro's GKUI19 infotainment isn't localized for Malaysia
One reason is because of how China-centric the Boyue Pro’s GKUI19 infotainment system is, and it will take Proton a lot of development and investment to adapt it for Malaysia.
What else can we expect from Chery?
The first model to be launched under its Chery 4.0 generation range is the Chery Omoda 5. Production of this sleek SUV has begun at Chery's production facility in Anhui, China.
In a press release, Chery said that the Omoda 5 will be exported to a number of right-hand drive countries, including Malaysia and Australia. Excited yet? Watch this space.
Keyword: Geely says no Boyue Pro for us, Chery says Malaysians deserve the best Pro models