Chery’s New Brand Lepas Set to Launch Dacia Duster Rival in the UK
Chery, the parent company of Jaecoo and Omoda, is preparing to introduce its third brand in the UK market, named Lepas. The Chinese manufacturer, known as the world’s largest car exporter, has seen success with its first two brands in the UK, with over 10,000 sales recorded since their debut last year.
While Jaecoo and Omoda cater to the market for large, moderately premium SUVs, Lepas is expected to target a younger demographic and offer more value-oriented vehicles. Reports suggest that Lepas will likely rebadge SUVs from Chery’s Tiggo lineup for the UK market, with models ranging from the Ford Puma-sized 2 Pro to the Nissan X-Trail-sized 8 Pro. The first car under the Lepas brand, the L8, is based on the 8 Pro model.
At the recent Shanghai motor show, a spokesperson for Lepas hinted at plans for expansion into the UK market, although specific details were not disclosed. Dealers have reportedly been contacted to prepare for the arrival of Lepas vehicles in the UK, starting with models in the B-segment.
The initial offering is expected to include the 4 Pro, a Duster-sized SUV already available in right-hand-drive markets like South Africa and Australia. Powered by a choice of either a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a turbocharged variant, the 4 Pro is likely to be priced competitively to undercut rivals like Dacia in the UK market.
With a focus on affordability and targeting younger buyers, Lepas is poised to shake up the UK SUV market with its upcoming Dacia Duster rival. Stay tuned for more updates on Lepas’ official launch and lineup in the UK.
