Conquering Everest: Chery’s ute could spawn off-road SUV

Chery has confirmed a dual-cab ute will be joining its lineup before the end of 2026, launching initially with a plug-in hybrid diesel powertrain – and with promises of real off-road capability.

While the ute has yet to be named by Chery, it’s clear the company has invested significantly in the development of the vehicle, suggesting the powertrain and off-road technology are unlikely to be constrained to a single model.

Executives from Chery remained tight-lipped when asked by CarExpert about the possibility of an SUV version of the ute to compete against the Ford Everest.

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However, these digital illustrations by artist Theottle provide a glimpse of what a seven-seat off-road SUV from Chery could look like.

Like the ute – which is known by its internal model code KP31 – the SUV could be the first in its segment to be powered by a diesel engine with plug-in hybrid technology, offering a significant competitive advantage over SUVs that mate plug-in hybrid tech with small petrol engines.

Full details of the ute haven’t been released by Chery at this stage, but the model will have front, centre, and rear locking differentials, off-road terrain modes, and a low-range gearbox.

It’s believed Chery is also working on a feature that allows the vehicle to complete tight turns on loose surfaces – much like Ford’s Trail Turn Assist.

“[Australia is] a market that values real-world capability [and] reliability – and we’re committed to trying to shape the future of new energy and intelligent utes,” said Lucas Harris, chief operating officer of Chery Australia.

“We need to use technology that is practical and proven and relevant for customers.”

Chery has yet to confirm whether an off-road SUV will be spun-off from its forthcoming ute, but it’s unlikely any such model would be seen in the market before 2027.

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