The upcoming Lepas L8 PHEV represents a significant move by Chery’s premium sub-brand to penetrate the UK market. As the first of many models slated for arrival through early 2027, the L8 aims to challenge established European and Japanese heavyweights like Volkswagen, Cupra, Peugeot, and Volvo.
However, testing a pre-production model in China reveals a vehicle that is caught between two worlds: it possesses the luxury and space of a premium SUV, but relies on hardware shared with more mainstream Chery/Omoda/Jaecoo models. To succeed in the competitive UK SUV landscape, the L8 cannot simply match its rivals; it must significantly undercut them on price.
Driving Dynamics and Powertrain
The L8 is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that utilizes a unique approach to electrification. Rather than acting like a traditional hybrid where the engine and motor work in tandem to drive the wheels, the L8 functions more like a range-extender.
- The Setup: A 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and an 18kWh battery.
- The Experience: Because the electric motor handles most of the heavy lifting, the initial driving experience is exceptionally smooth and free of the “jerkiness” often found in hybrid transitions.
- Performance: With a peak output of 279bhp, the car offers a spirited initial burst of acceleration, though its heavy weight makes the performance feel somewhat blunt once the initial surge fades.
Efficiency vs. Range
While the L8 promises impressive efficiency—targeting roughly 120mpg on the WLTP cycle—it faces a challenge regarding pure electric capability. With an estimated 55 miles of EV range, it lags behind competitors like the VW Tiguan e-Hybrid, which can achieve up to 70 miles. The trade-off is that once the petrol engine engages, the L8 is expected to be highly efficient, delivering approximately 45–50mpg.
Interior Luxury and Practicality
Where the L8 truly makes its case is inside the cabin. The interior feels premium, utilizing soft-touch materials, extensive stitching, and brightwork to create an upscale atmosphere.
- Technology: A massive 14.8-inch waterfall touchscreen serves as the command center. It is responsive and user-friendly, complemented by a dedicated row of physical controls for air conditioning—a welcome addition for driver ergonomics.
- Design Influences: The cabin design bears a striking resemblance to modern Mercedes-Benz interiors, particularly in the door cards and trim layouts.
- Space: The L8 excels in passenger comfort, offering vast amounts of legroom in the rear. While the battery pack limits under-floor storage, the boot remains versatile and well-shaped for a family vehicle.
Areas for Improvement
As a pre-production model, the L8 still shows signs of “calibration” issues that need to be addressed before its UK launch in September 2026 :
1. Handling: The steering feels imprecise at high speeds, leading to slight lane wandering, and the overall chassis can feel cumbersome.
2. Braking: The integration of regenerative braking is currently clumsy, making smooth deceleration difficult for the driver.
3. Engine Noise: While refined, the petrol engine produces a distant, somewhat disconcerting hum when it kicks in to support the electric motor.
The Competitive Outlook
The Lepas L8 enters a crowded market. While it offers high-end features like massaging seats, a glass roof, and 360-degree cameras, these are now standard expectations for the segment. To truly stand out, Lepas may need to introduce more advanced “legacy” tech, such as matrix LED headlights or adaptive dampers, which are currently missing from the prototype.
The Bottom Line: The Lepas L8 is a spacious, attractive, and efficient family SUV that feels more premium than its technical roots might suggest. However, its success in the UK will depend entirely on whether its pricing strategy allows it to undercut established leaders like the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Quick Specs (Estimated)
- Price: ~£40,000
- Powertrain: 1.5L 4-cylinder PHEV (279bhp / 365Nm)
- 0-62mph: 8.5 seconds
- EV Range: ~55 miles
- Launch Date: September 2026
