Sturdy and reliable vehicle

Having purchased my first car a month ago and taken another step towards responsible adulthood, I’ve been left hanging around as said vehicle awaits a small part fixing in the showroom’s workshop.

As my frustration at being told ‘one more week’ continues to mount, I can recall myself proclaiming: “Oh, I’ll just drive anything, I don’t care,” at my patient, nodding colleagues.

I didn’t expect this declaration to happen quite so literally, as I was informed soon after that I’d be test-driving the new Chery Tiggo 3. However, despite the model being firmly in the ‘budget’ spectrum, it was actually pretty fun to drive.

The Chinese brand, perhaps not one of the more recognisable marques as of yet, is known in its homeland for building sturdy, reliable vehicles and this is no exception. The safe, boxy design on the outside is matched by a solid interior with durable components.

The neat and functional design sees a protruding centre stack, which thankfully has a matte silver trim and large, clearly labelled buttons to break the monotony of dark plastics found on the dashboard and door panels.

With the high option, the Tiggo 3 also offers higher levels of comfort with leather wrapped seats, an automatic air conditioning system, and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat.

Under the bonnet, you won’t find something to make your friends jealous, but the 2.0L DVVT engine delivers a reasonable 137BHP which is enough for Bahrain’s small and congested roads. Don’t expect to accelerate quickly out of the blocks though, as the pick-up in this car is not what I expected.

The only other major gripe I did have was that the engine was way too loud and sensitive; one slight tap of the accelerator and the rev counter shot up followed by a loud whirring noise.

Infotainment features are limited compared to other models in this segment, but the small touch screen still provides AM/FM radio, a CD player and a USB port (although this requires a micro USB connection so it won’t work with standard Apple USB connectors without an adaptor).

Considering the entry price of BD5,100, the Tiggo 3 packs a wealth of useful features. Power windows, cruise control, parking sensors and headlamp levelling come as standard and unlike some other cars which pile buttons and switches onto the dashboard, everything here is clearly labelled and easy to use.

Chinese automobiles have the reputation of being cheap, but I felt safe at all times driving the Tiggo 3. In fact, safety was the main design priority as both ABS and EBD safety systems have been installed to make braking smooth and responsive, perfect for when a negligent moron from across the causeway swerves into your lane inches in front of you.

The drive, aside from the noise, was smooth and responsive. Its suspension navigated speed bumps and potholes alike with minimum disturbance, further reinforcing its sturdy nature.

Cabin space is more than ample too, enough for three adults in the back to have leg room and for the groceries to be piled in the boot.

The Tiggo 3 might not be the most luxurious model in its segment, but for the features it packs into its safe, comfortable interior, you’ll struggle to find an equal for this price.

The Tiggo 3 starts from BD5,100 and is available from Motorcity’s Chery showroom in Sanad. Call 17621162 for more information.