Chery Australia Eyes Expansion Beyond SUVs with the Stylish Arrizo 8 Sedan

Chery Australia is looking to broaden its vehicle lineup beyond its current all-SUV offerings, with a focus on bringing the stylish Arrizo 8 sedan to local shores. According to Chery Australia's Chief Operating Officer, Lucas Harris, the Chinese automaker is keen to introduce new body styles to complement its popular SUVs, and the Arrizo 8 could be a strong contender for the Australian market.

Speaking at the launch of Chery’s first all-electric model, the Omoda E5, in Canberra, Harris hinted that while the company’s current focus is on its SUV range, the introduction of sedans, particularly the Toyota Camry-sized Arrizo 8, is very much on the horizon. "While it makes sense to get started in the market with the volume-segment models, we have some great sedan products that might do well here,” Harris said.

Chery Arrizo 8: A Sedan for Australia?

The Arrizo 8, a sleek mid-size sedan that has already garnered attention in overseas markets, is seen as a potential hit in Australia. With both internal combustion and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions available, it offers versatility and modern tech to cater to various buyer preferences.

The internal combustion engine (ICE) variant of the Arrizo 8 features a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that Harris described with enthusiasm: "The [ICE model] has a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that offers more power than it should,” he said, reflecting on his firsthand experience driving the model.

Expanding Beyond SUVs

Chery has experienced rapid growth in Australia thanks to its successful lineup of SUVs, but Harris believes the addition of sedans like the Arrizo 8 could further solidify the brand’s position in the market. "We have some great sedan products that might do well here," Harris added, signaling the brand’s intention to compete in a broader array of vehicle segments, including mid-size sedans.

With SUVs dominating the Australian automotive landscape, Chery’s entry into the sedan market could attract buyers looking for a stylish, high-performance alternative to the likes of the Toyota Camry.

What’s Next for Chery Australia?

While the Arrizo 8 has not yet been confirmed for Australia, its arrival could signal a shift in Chery’s local strategy, moving beyond SUVs to diversify its offerings. For now, the brand remains focused on its current SUV portfolio, but with the rising popularity of hybrid and plug-in hybrid sedans, the Arrizo 8 could be a welcome addition in the near future.

As Chery continues to expand its presence in Australia, the introduction of new models like the Arrizo 8 is something to keep an eye on. If Harris’s excitement is any indication, Chery is ready to take on more segments and offer a wider range of options for Australian drivers.