Chery hits the ground in Oz
Official pricing, specs for Chinese brand's first two modelsChery Automotive has been formally launched in Australia ahead of a March 1 on-sale date. Two models are spearheading the new range's introduction to the local market: the J1 hatch and the J11 SUV.
As predicted, the Chinese brand will present a value proposition for new buyers, with the J1 priced at $11,990, inclusive of on-road costs, and the J11 sliding in at $19,990 driveaway. There's an automatic version of the J11 too, although that will set you back $2000 extra. For that money though, the SUV also gains cruise control and remote (steering wheel) audio controls.
The pricing and specification of the new models will be an all-important factor in attracting buyer interest and subsequent market acceptance for the new brand, which is being distributed in Australia by Ateco Automotive, the company that already distributes another Chinese brand, Great Wall.
"Chery is the largest and most diverse independent vehicle manufacturer in China," said Ric Hull, Managing Director of Ateco Automotive. "Chery is known for its focus on constant innovation and drive towards better quality, well appointed cars at an affordable price."
Powered by a 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine developing 62kW and 122Nm, the J1 is a five-door hatch with a five-speed manual transmission. On the combined-cycle fuel consumption test the J1 returns a figure of 6.7L/100km. There's no automatic option, but the standard equipment for the light car extends to: air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows/mirrors, remote central locking and an MP3-compatible six-speaker audio system.
Developing 102kW of power and 182Nm of torque, the 2.0-litre engine in the J11 drives through a standard five-speed manual transmission or the optional four-speed automatic to the front wheels only. Fuel consumption in combined-cycle testing is 8.9L/100km for either manual or auto variant. Standard features include: leather trimmed seats, air conditioning, electric windows/mirrors, MP3-compatible four speaker CD audio, 16-inch alloy wheels and remote central locking.
Safety features for both the J1 and J11 are limited to dual front airbags, antilock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and front seatbelt pretensioners. Due to go on sale officially from March 1, the two cars will be offered with a three-year, 100,000km warranty also incorporating 24-hour roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty.
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