Traveling to Space: A Test Drive to Baikonur on the CHERY TIGGO 9
The CHERY team went on a motor rally to the Baikonur Cosmodrome to test the flagship TIGGO 9 crossover. The test drive included bloggers and influencers, who were given the opportunity to simultaneously witness a rocket launch and experience the new model from the popular automotive brand.
The Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft being launched at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Photo: Astana Motors
The Chery Kazakhstan distributor, part of Astana Motors, notes that test drives to the Baikonur Cosmodrome on the TIGGO 9 this year and on the TIGGO8 PRO MAX in 2022 carry a special meaning. Automotive experts often draw parallels between these crossovers and aircraft, and for good reason: both models boast a turbine from Honeywell, synonymous with aircraft engines, while their cabin comfort delivers a business-class airline experience.
The TIGGO 9 was tested on the Kyzylorda — Baikonur route. The team covered about 500 km and appreciated all the advantages of CHERY’s new product.
The Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft being launched at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Photo: Astana Motors
“I drove over 500 km myself to personally experience the car’s qualities. And I loved it! A large, beautiful, spacious crossover. Incredible technical equipment — from all-round visibility and seats with massage to lane keeping systems and collision warnings,” said blogger Yerzhan Yesimkhanov.
The TIGGO 9 is powered by CHERY’s 4th generation 2.0T GDI engine delivering up to 245 hp. Among CHERY models, this is the only car with an 8-speed automatic transmission and 20" wheels. The dimensions of the seven-seater crossover are 4810 * 1925 * 1741 mm. The seats in the 2nd and 3rd rows fold electrically, expanding the luggage compartment to 2.1 sq. m.
The interior of the CHERY TIGGO 9 flagship crossover. Photo: Astana Motors
At the cosmodrome, the test drive participants could see the launch of the Soyuz MS-27 manned spacecraft with a crew of cosmonauts: S. Ryzhikov, A. Zubritsky and NASA astronaut D. Kim, which was an exciting experience.
“This is one more dream that came true at my 28 years of age, thanks to Astana Motors and CHERY cars,” blogger Malika Zheksenbina said.
Participants of the CHERY TIGGO 9 test drive at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Photo: Astana Motors
A few days after the test drive, the official presentation of the CHERY flagship took place in Astana. A ceremony was held in which the first buyer of the model received the car keys.
“I am sure that TIGGO 9 will be appreciated by Kazakhstani consumers, this model deserves special attention,” said Nurlan Shamgonov, Distribution Director at Chery Kazakhstan. “In the near future, CHERY cars will be produced at the multi-brand plant in Almaty, which is due to open in Q2 of this year.”
CHERY TIGGO 9. Photo: Astana Motors
CHERY has been present in Kazakhstan since 2021. Over 35,000 cars of the brand have been sold to date. The new CHERY TIGGO 9 is already available in 26 dealerships in 19 cities across the country, with a starting price of 19,990,000 KZT.