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Chery Confirms Diesel Plug-In Hybrid KP31 Ute for Australia in Q4 2026

The debut pairs a 2.5‑litre turbo‑diesel with electrification, targeting workhorse capability in a segment first.

Overview

  • The launch variant is a diesel PHEV, with a petrol PHEV to follow in 2027 as a more highway‑focused option.
  • Chery is targeting a 1000 kg payload and 3500 kg braked towing capacity, with front, centre and rear locking differentials and low‑range gearing expected.
  • Australian development and tuning are underway, with local testing set to shape the showroom specification and potentially inform other right‑hand‑drive markets.
  • Key production specs including battery capacity, power outputs, pricing and final model name remain unconfirmed, with reports citing an electric‑only range goal of up to about 170 km.
  • The diesel PHEV will use a leaf‑spring rear setup aimed at off‑road and load‑hauling capability, while the petrol PHEV is planned with coil‑spring independent rear suspension for comfort.