Chery's LEPAS L8 gears up for U.K. debut

If you're still wrapping your heads around all the new automotive names streaming out of China, here's another one to add to your study list: LEPAS. 

Its parent won't be all that foreign, though, because LEPAS counts itself as part of China's gargantuan Chery Group, and now arrives as yet another piece of its international expansion puzzle as it follows in the footsteps of the Omoda and Jaecoo sub-brands. And in dependably Chinese fashion, its name is, er, an interesting amalgamation of multiple terms, combining 'Leopard', 'Leap' and 'Passion'.

The L8 is currently the flagship model in the LEPAS lineup, and is set to debut in the U.K. in the third quarter of 2026

Chery states that LEPAS was created to "resonate with those seeking authenticity, intelligent design, and a bold, elevated everyday experience", and that it also "aims to connect with creative and culturally progressive communities who value craftsmanship, aesthetic integrity, and expressive identity".

Additionally, the brand is apparently aiming to "define elegance in the new energy era, combining sophisticated design, advanced technology, and uncompromising safety to deliver a refined and confident driving experience".

Considering that both Omoda and Jaecoo have vague premium ambitions of their own, the addition of LEPAS now - coupled with its flowery founding ethos - might seem a bit excessive. Still, the first model that it's set to debut in the U.K., dubbed the LEPAS L8, does feel fairly impressive on first glance.

The L8's cabin promises to bring together premium materials and generous space for five occupants 

Incidentally, the L8 marks LEPAS' current flagship model, stretching out at 4,670mm in length.

Sporting the brand's signature design language, its exterior apparently takes inspiration from the muscular contours of a leopard. There are flashes of both Audi and Bentley up front. The L8's pairing of slim daytime running lights and larger main beams below hidden in a 'black mask' below feels vaguely A6 Sportback e-tron-esque, while the studded front grille calls to mind the Bentayga.

Chery has also shared that the L8 is built atop of its all-new New Energy Vehicle (NEV) modular platform, which has been engineered to combine performance and comfort. LEPAS' U.K. team hasn't confirmed specific powertrain details yet, but the L8 is apparently already on sale in Indonesia as a plug-in hybrid.

Additionally, the L8 will feature advanced in-cabin features, comprehensive driver assistance systems,  robust structural safety, and a generously proportioned five-seat cabin. The SUV is set to launch in the U.K. within the third quarter of 2026, with further details to come in the following months.