Chery Arrizo 8: A New Challenger for Toyota Camry and Mazda 6 in Australia?

As the Australian sedan market continues to shrink, Chery, one of the country’s rising car brands, has its eyes set on introducing a new mid-size competitor – the Arrizo 8. This could mark the next big move in the brand’s expansion after its SUV lineup gains traction.

According to Chery Australia’s Chief Operating Officer, Lucas Harris, the Arrizo 8 sedan is on the wish list for local showrooms. However, it’s not yet available in right-hand drive. Before adding this model to its offerings, Chery Australia must first prove itself in the SUV market.

What's Under the Hood?

The Arrizo 8, launched in China two years ago, boasts impressive specifications. It comes with two petrol engine options: a 145kW/290Nm 1.6-litre and a 187kW/390Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, both paired with seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

Chery also offers a plug-in hybrid variant branded as the Fulwin A8. This model pairs a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque. It claims an electric-only range of 106 km and a hybrid range of over 1400 km, with fuel consumption as low as 1.0L/100km under optimal conditions.

A New Player in the Sedan Market?

Though the Arrizo 8 is slightly smaller than the Toyota Camry, with dimensions that differ only marginally, its performance and tech offerings could position it as a strong contender. The hybrid’s fuel efficiency, combined with its power output, rivals even the Toyota Camry Hybrid, making it a serious competitor in the mid-size sedan segment.

However, Harris emphasized that Chery’s current focus is on its expanding SUV range. "The SUV segments are where all the action is right now," he said. "We need to do a good job with what we've got before exploring other segments."

If Chery can continue its growth in the SUV market, the Arrizo 8 could potentially make waves in Australia’s sedan scene. But for now, its arrival hinges on Chery’s local success – and a green light for right-hand-drive production.

Final Thoughts

With the mid-size sedan segment seeing reduced competition, Chery's potential introduction of the Arrizo 8 could breathe new life into the market. While the wait continues, Chery’s strong focus on the SUV segment reflects its strategy of solidifying its presence before diving into new territories. For those keeping an eye on the brand, the Arrizo 8 might just be the next exciting addition.