Chery patents lepas L4 petrol SUV in India with two-engine options

Chery has patented its first pure petrol vehicle in India, marking a shift from its earlier focus on plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs). Most previous patents in India from Chery were for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), which include plug-in hybrids and EVs. The newly patented Lepas L4 stands out as a pure-petrol model, expanding the brand's offerings under the JSW umbrella in India.

Key Highlights

• Chery patents the Lepas L4 pure petrol SUV in India.
• Lepas L4 offers two 1.5-litre petrol engine options.
• SUV features 13.2-inch infotainment and 540° surround view.
• South African price converts to Rs 17.13 to 23.98 lakh.

Key Features of Lepas L4

The Lepas L4 is a mid-size SUV with a length of 4.4 metres, a width of 1.8 metres, and a height of 1.6 metres. It features a wheelbase of 2.7 metres and a ground clearance of 160 millimetres. The SUV comes equipped with a 'Tiger face' grille, air intakes, 17-inch tyres, and various alloy wheel designs. The top-spec variant includes a full-LED lighting setup and a panoramic glass house.

Inside, the Lepas L4 offers faux leather upholstery, a 540° surround view system, and a 13.2-inch infotainment display with wireless connectivity. The cabin seats five people in two rows and includes a 50W wireless charger for added convenience.

Engine Options and Performance

The Lepas L4 is available with two 1.5-litre petrol engine options: a naturally aspirated (NA) unit and a turbocharged unit. The NA engine produces 107.2 HP and 148 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The turbocharged engine delivers 144.72 HP and 255 Nm of torque.

Fuel efficiency for the NA engine is claimed at 14.49 kmpl, with a consumption rate of 6.9 litres per 100 km. The turbocharged engine offers a fuel efficiency of 14.28 kmpl and consumes 7 litres per 100 km. The fuel tank has a capacity of 51 litres.

Pricing and Market Position

The Lepas L4 is priced between R299,900 and R419,900 in South Africa. This price range converts to approximately Rs. 17.13 lakh to Rs. 23.98 lakh in India. The vehicle is the only model in Chery's portfolio to have both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) versions patented.

An EV version of the Lepas L4 has also been patented, highlighting Chery's strategy to offer both petrol and electric options for the same model in India. This dual approach may help the brand cater to a wider range of customer preferences in the Indian market.

Also Read: Chery patents Fengyun X3L Range Extender EV SUV in India

CarBike 360 Says

Chery’s Lepas L4 patent filing adds another intriguing model to its India pipeline and strengthens speculation around a future launch. With two engine options expected, the SUV could appeal to buyers looking for a fresh design and modern features. For now, the patent is the clearest sign yet that Chery is quietly preparing its next move for the Indian market.