Immediately following the launch of the new Lepas brand’sL8 flagship SUV, which had its worldwide premiere in June, the first instance of the Lepas L4 compact SUV has left the production line.
Similar to the L8, the new L4 has been verified for launch in South Africa. The Lepas brand, owned by Chery, is scheduled to enter the local market in the first quarter of 2026. A midsize L6 model will also be introduced worldwide, with potential local availability as well.
Lepas has not yet disclosed the full details of its new L4 compact model, but international reports suggest that it will be built upon theChery Tiggo Cross, which is referred to as the new-generation Tiggo 4 in many international markets.
It is probable that the power will originate from a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, and considering Chery’s recent focus on new energy, a hybrid variant is expected to be available as well.
The exact pricing details are still unclear at this point, but Lepas models are anticipated to be more expensive than their Chery counterparts.
“Although we are keeping all the specifics confidential for the moment, the (Lepas) line has been created to cater to different ways of living; from energetic urban driving to bigger, more flexible choices for people and families who appreciate comfort, technology, sophistication, and naturally, fashion,” said Letitia Herold, national brand manager at Lepas South Africa, to IOL.
The LEPAS 8 is sure to be a standout feature of the launch, featuring a striking design and a luxurious experience, while the rest of the lineup offers a new approach to daily transportation.
“LEPAS focuses on confidence, vibrant colors, and creativity, and we can’t wait to bring a fresh premium experience to the roads of South Africa at the beginning of next year,” Herold said.
The L4 features a design that mirrors its bigger counterpart, the L8, boasting smooth lines that could be compared to a contemporary Jaguar model like the F-Pace.
Interestingly, Lepas, whose name combines “Leap” and “Passion,” refers to its design style as “Leopard Aesthetics,” drawing inspiration from the powerful curves of a leopard. Additionally, the vertical-slit headlights found on both the L8 and L4 resemble a leopard’s “agile eyes.”
The L8, as reported earlier, will be available in global markets with options including ICE, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions. This features the well-known 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine that drives the current Chery Tiggo 8 Pro.
Chery Auto refers to the Lepas brand as a pioneer in the company’s international expansion plan.
“The swift expansion of Lepas is closely linked to the formidable power of Chery Group. Leveraging Chery’s experience as an export leader for 22 years, the technical network of eight global R&D centers, and the fully integrated global R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain,” Chery Auto stated.
Lepas has maintained the ‘technical trust of 16.3 million global users’ since it began. This comprehensive ‘manufacturing-R&D-integration’ capability has offered a strong assurance for the swift execution of L4.
IOL Motoring
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
