Nearly there

CAR tested the original South African-bound Tiggo in October 2009. At that stage, the imports from China included Chana, Chery, Foton, GoNow and GWM. That model offered attractive styling and a naturally aspirated 1,6-litre engine with a five-speed manual transmission. A 2,0-litre version provided some added power. Fast forward over a decade and the latest venture is under the direct control of the parent company in China. With Chinese quality improving, arguably headed by Haval at present, we now have even more motoring choices.

The Tiggo range offers five models, with this top-spec SE model merely adding a dash of colour to the Elite turbo range, sporting red brake callipers and variable ambient interior lighting. Notably, all turbo models have a sunroof fitted as standard, which is usually an optional extra. The dual chromed exhaust trims are fake and the car sports plenty of bling, including the universally popular oversized grille, but