6 Types of SUVs You Should Know Before Buying-image
tips and tricks
12 August 2025

6 Types of SUVs You Should Know Before Buying

SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) are one of Indonesia’s favorite vehicle choices, offering a combination of bold looks, driving comfort, and the ability to tackle various road conditions. Many SUVs are designed with high ground clearance and spacious cabins, making them perfect for families or drivers who frequently travel, whether in the city or on long trips.

Before buying an SUV, it’s important to understand the various types available on the market, from compact, crossover, and full-size to luxury SUVs—each with different characteristics and advantages depending on the user’s needs and lifestyle.

In this article, we’ll explore various SUV options from Chery, a Chinese automaker gaining attention in the Indonesian market. From high-tech models like the Omoda E5 to powerful SUVs like the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, and rising stars like the J6—complete with features, specifications, and available variants.

1. Compact SUV

Compact SUVs, also called low or mini SUVs, are smaller in size with enough power for city driving. They target users who want the rugged look of an SUV but still prioritize practicality and efficiency for daily use. Their advantages include smaller dimensions, easy maneuverability, and better fuel economy compared to larger SUVs.

Chery offers three compact models: Tiggo 7 Pro, Omoda 5, and Omoda 5 GT. Measuring around 4,400–4,500 mm in length, they are easy to maneuver in heavy city traffic and fit into tight parking spaces. Despite their compact size, they still provide roomy cabins with modern SUV features like ADAS safety systems, 360° cameras, and advanced entertainment systems.

2. Midsize SUV

Midsize SUVs have larger dimensions and more powerful engines than compact SUVs. They offer a spacious cabin and greater comfort, especially for long-distance travel. Chery’s leading models in this category are the Chery Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 8 Pro.

  • Tiggo 8 is powered by a 1.6L TGDI engine producing 186 HP and 290 Nm of torque, ideal for both daily and intercity driving.
  • Tiggo 8 Pro comes with a more powerful 2.0L TGDI engine delivering 250 HP and 390 Nm of torque—impressive performance for a midsize SUV.

Both offer premium comfort features such as a panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, 7-passenger seating, and ADAS safety features.

3. Full-size SUV

Full-size SUVs, also called “true SUVs,” are the largest in their class. With powerful engines, they are built to carry many passengers and cargo while conquering various terrains. The Tiggo series includes full-size SUVs, with a highlight being the Tiggo 8 CSH (Comfort, Smart, Hybrid)—Chery’s latest hybrid SUV.

  • Tiggo 8 CSH features hybrid technology delivering 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque, offering excellent fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. Its 1,500 cc turbo petrol engine allows up to 90 km in full-electric mode.

With a spacious 7-seater cabin and premium comfort features, the Tiggo 8 CSH is ideal for users seeking power, efficiency, and luxury. Recently, it achieved 500 Vehicle Orders (SPK) in a short time.

4. Luxury SUV

Luxury SUVs focus on elegance, advanced technology, and top-class comfort in addition to performance. Chery’s luxury lineup includes the Tiggo 8 ProTiggo 8 Pro Max, and Tiggo 8 CSH.

  • All models feature powerful yet efficient engines, premium-quality interiors, complete safety features, premium sound systems, and spacious 7-passenger cabins.
  • Tiggo 8 Pro Max offers both Front Wheel Drive (FWD) and All Wheel Drive (AWD). It earned a five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP Safety), solidifying its status as a high-safety luxury SUV.
  • Advanced safety tech like ADAS, 540° cameras, and smart driving features are standard.

5. Off-Road SUV

Built for adventurers, off-road SUVs are designed for extreme terrains. They often have AWD or RWD, special drive modes, and higher ground clearance. Chery introduced the J6 EV—its first electric off-road SUV—at GJAW 2024.

  • Chery J6 EV comes with AWD called Intelligent Wheel Drive (IWD) delivering 385 Nm of torque, and RWD for rocky, muddy, or sandy roads.
  • Equipped with 8+X drive modes, massage seats, 12 Infinity speakers, and a 540° camera, it offers luxury even off-road.

With up to 426 km range and 0–100 km/h acceleration in just 6.5 seconds, the J6 EV is a tough yet modern choice for explorers. It also contributed to a 47% increase in EV sales in Indonesia earlier this year.

6. Crossover SUV

Crossover SUVs combine passenger car comfort with SUV toughness. Their sleek design and adequate ground clearance make them ideal for city use. Chery’s top picks here are the Omoda E5 and Tiggo Cross.

  • Omoda E5 is a futuristic electric crossover SUV with a 61 kWh battery, delivering up to 430 km (WLTP) or 505 km (NEDC) range. Producing 201 HP and 340 Nm of torque, it’s agile in various conditions. Its fast charging takes it from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes, while low cabin noise (62.9 dB at 120 km/h) ensures superior comfort.
  • Tiggo Cross has a 1.5L CVT petrol engine producing 116 PS and 138 Nm, perfect for practicality, comfort, and efficiency. It secured over 500 SPK at the IIMS 2025.

SUV vs. MPV: What’s the Difference?

SUVs are designed for varied terrains with high ground clearance and often AWD, while MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) focus more on passenger comfort and capacity—ideal for families and city trips.

With Chery’s diverse SUV lineup—ranging from practical compacts to modern crossovers, full-size, and luxury SUVs—all powered by class-leading engines and loaded with technology, there’s a perfect option for every lifestyle. Stylish design, powerful performance, fuel efficiency, and complete safety features make them ideal for daily use, family travel, or adventure.

If you’re looking for an SUV that fits your lifestyle and modern driving needs, Chery SUVs are a smart choice this year. Visit your nearest Chery dealer or check the official website to explore features and book a test drive!

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