kaizen (noun): the principle of holistic continuous improvement that originated from Japanese corporate culture but is now globally practiced
I experienced kaizen in the new Chery Tiggo 2 Pro.
As far as facelifts go, the new Php708,000 Tiggo 2 Pro’s is a rather extensive one. Many facelifts involve only a change in grille and bumper plus sundry changes or a few additional features inside the cabin.
But with the new Chery Tiggo 2 Pro, it involves changing the whole front end (grille, bumper, headlights, hood, front fenders). And unlike the usual facelift, the new Tiggo 2 Pro’s rear end doesn’t just get new taillights, it also gets a completely different tailgate, rear windshield, taillights, bumper, rear spoiler and third brake light.
But more importantly, it offers an interesting insight on this Chinese brand’s manufacturing culture: that it’s not always about adding a lot of features and undercutting the price of its competitors. It’s also about continuously improving the product.
Case in point: The new Tiggo 2 Pro’s outside door handle works like the one you’ll find in an expensive luxury car. Pull it and it smoothly and effortlessly slides towards you like a well-oiled mechanism. Release it and it slides back gently and quietly. I’ve tried the previous iterations of the Tiggo 2 (the 2019 pre-Pro version and the current Tiggo 2 Pro) and their door handles always seem sticky and jerky to use. I even thought it might be just the often-used driver’s door of this new test car but after trying out all four door handles, I realized that Chery had taken notice of that characteristic and took it upen themselves to improve it. That’s something you won’t find on a brochure or in any salesperson’s pitch.
With the facelift, the new Tiggo 2 Pro now flaunts a more dynamic head-turning design that incorporates modern, fashion-forward elements. The boldy assertive front end’s sleek lines and overall aesthetics are crafted to appeal to a youthful audience, making it the ideal first car for those who prioritize a balance between affordability, practicality, performance, and style.
And much more than just a heavily facelifted model, the new Tiggo 2 Pro is equipped with new automatic projector headlights, Chery’s new checkered-flag grille, new 16″ dark alloy wheels, and new full-width LED taillights.
Inside, it has a completely new dashboard, center console, seats, and door panels. It also now has a much larger 10.25″ infotainment system (now with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto), HD reverse camera with dynamic auxiliary lines, cruise control, wireless smartphone charging, as well as USB and Type C charging ports.
The new Tiggo 2 Pro has a new 1.5-liter DOHC engine which may either be paired to a 5-speed manual or a 9-speed CVT with two driving modes: Sport and Eco. I actually achieved an average of 10 km/li. in everyday city driving (I usually get only 7-8 km/li. in most other cars.) Automatics—especially DCTs—have been a weak point among Chinese brands, but the 9-speed CVT of the new Tiggo 2 Pro proved responsive and completely lag-free. It’s kaizen at work once again.
Other notable upgrades that underscore kaizen in the new Tiggo 2 Pro are its new laser-engraved interior design, the much appreciated soft-touch surfaces all around, the crisp new buttons and switches, a new card holder and bag hook, removable cup holders, multi-level gadget desk, rear console bag hook and compartment, and a full-flat expandable trunk space (the previous Tiggo’s back seat didn’t fold flat).
The new Tiggo 2 Pro is covered by Chery’s extensive warranty and support programs including a 5-year or 100,000-km bumper-to-bumper warranty, 3-year free roadside assistance, and 1-year or 20,000-km free PMS program. It’s available in white, red, or silver.
Overall, the new Tiggo 2 Pro will definitely appeal to tech-savvy, style-conscious, and adventurous Gen Z’s and millennials looking for that versatile, feature-packed first car for both work and for weekend road trips. It’s the vehicle that will meet their budget while allowing them to enjoy a favorable work-life balance. Isn’t that what everyone wants?
