Chery has maintained a strong position in China's SUV market since the internal combustion engine era. However, consumer expectations for SUVs have evolved beyond simple spaciousness to encompass comfort and smart features. To meet these changing demands, Chery's Jetour brand has introduced the Shanhai L7 PLUS, built on their Kunlun Super Hybrid platform.

The Shanhai L7 PLUS officially launched on August 26th with pricing between $16,600 and $22,400, though a special exchange promotion brings prices down to $15,200-$21,000. The launch includes several additional customer benefits.

We conducted a static inspection of multiple display vehicles before the launch event, and several key features stood out.

Exterior and Interior Design

The exterior design is appealingly simple, bold, and sophisticated with subtle sporty elements. While not the most distinctive design language, its inoffensive style makes it well-suited for family use.

The interior deserves praise for its material quality. Nearly all touchpoints feature soft padding, and even plastic sections use soft-touch materials with stitching—a level of finish that exceeds expectations for this price point.

A highlight of the infotainment system is the "sunflower" screen that swivels left and right for easier access. Chery describes the cabin as representing an "idealized" state, evidenced by available accessories like rear-seat entertainment screens, a fold-down table for the front passenger, and an inflatable mattress.

Practicality and Flexibility

The Jetour Shanhai L7 PLUS measures 4810mm in length, 1930mm in width, and 1705mm in height, with a 2820mm wheelbase. We examined the 7-seater version, which offers generous second-row adjustment for optimal comfort. The third row, while less spacious, works for occasional use. This vehicle truly excels in its 5-seater configuration.

In terms of flexibility, the L7 PLUS offers strong advantages over competitors. All three rows feature electric adjustment, with third-row controls located in the trunk. Electric buttons on the second-row seatbacks provide easy access to the third row. All seats can fold flat, allowing the entire cabin to form one large, level bed when the front seats are reclined and the second and third rows are folded forward.

A standout feature is the dual refrigerator system—one in the center console and another in the trunk. The launch event even included a demonstration retrieving "fish caught that afternoon from the fridge," highlighting how modern vehicles are increasingly catering to outdoor enthusiasts.

Performance and Platform

The powertrain consists of a dedicated 1.5TGDI hybrid engine producing 115kW of maximum power and 220Nm of peak torque, paired with P1+P3 motors. This combination enables 0-100 km/h acceleration in approximately 7 seconds. The vehicle offers a CLTC pure-electric range of 220km, more than sufficient for daily use.

A display vehicle in the exhibition area was tilted to showcase the chassis. The new dedicated platform (not a converted ICE design) results in a notably flatter underbody and slightly lower ride height. Driving dynamics will be assessed in a future test drive.

Trim Levels and Value Proposition

The newly added base model, the 121km 5-seat Standard trim, is priced at $15,200 with the exchange offer. With 121km EV range, 3.3kW V2L output, LED headlights, power driver's seat, L2 ADAS, 540-degree panoramic camera, and support for Hicar and CarPlay, it offers impressive value, though it may primarily serve to advertise a low entry price.

The 121km 5-seat Comfort trim at $16,600 adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a power tailgate with memory function, heated electronic side mirrors, 4-zone voice recognition, and increased V2L output of 6.6kW for $1,400 more—representing strong value.

The 121km 5-seat Luxury trim at $18,000 represents the top configuration for the standard range. Key upgrades include the Falcon 500 vision-based advanced driving assist system (with promised future urban NOA capability), front seat ventilation/heating, 50W wireless phone charging, and a heated steering wheel. For an additional $550, a 7-seat version is available, though with manual third-row adjustment.

The 220km 5-seat Elite trim at $18,800 upgrades the battery capacity to 32.66 kWh for a 220km CLTC range but only includes L2 ADAS, reducing its appeal for those seeking advanced driver assistance.

For $20,200, the 220km 5-seat Luxury trim adds longer range and CDC electromagnetic suspension, with other features mirroring the 121km Luxury trim.

The top-tier 220km 5-seat Flagship trim costs $21,000, adding hands-free power tailgate operation, the swiveling 'sunflower' screen, front seat massage, rear fold-down tables, and a trunk refrigerator. This $800 increase offers considerable value but addresses personal preferences rather than essential needs.

An optional package valued at $1,520 includes heated second-row seats, 8-way power driver seat adjustment, co-pilot 'boss key,' air purification system, auto-dipping mirrors when reversing, a 12-speaker 'Boya Sound' system, 220V internal V2L, a dash cam, and 20-inch wheels—primarily comfort-focused features.

Competitive Positioning

The entire lineup offers impressive value. Even the base model delivers excellent value—a midsize PHEV SUV measuring 4.8m long with a 2.8m wheelbase, complete with a 360-degree camera and six airbags for just over $15,200. Most trims above the base two offer a choice between 5 or 7 seats, catering to different consumer needs.

For value-conscious buyers, the base model offers the highest return on investment. Those with a larger budget should consider the 220km 5-seat Luxury trim, which offers extended range, better seats, and the Falcon 500 system. Decisions about other trims, the 7-seat option, or the optional package depend entirely on individual requirements.

Compared to competitors, the top-spec Shanhai L7 PLUS costs about $1,400 more than the BYD Seal 06 Touring Edition but offers 7 seats and a 220km EV range. Against the Qiyuan Q07, it boasts advantages in chassis quality and the 7-seat option. Overall, the Shanhai L7 PLUS demonstrates strong product capability, competitiveness, and well-judged pricing, clearly reflecting Chery's serious commitment to the segment.

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