Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
4 min of reading 
1 comment 
The New Rely R08 Hybrid Pickup, Chery’s Bet for 2025, Combines Strong Design and Top Technology in a Chinese Project That Promises to Shake Up Toyota Hilux’s Dominance in the Latin American Market
The Rely R08 Hybrid Pickup is Chery’s latest challenge to Toyota Hilux’s hegemony. With an aggressive look, plug-in hybrid engine, and bold proposal, this Chinese hybrid pickup aims to win over consumers who prioritize technology, efficiency, and innovative design. In a market dominated by established models like the Hilux, the Rely R08 intends to stand out with electrification and sophistication, targeting a clientele that demands more than just robustness.
Design of the Chinese Hybrid Pickup
The design of the Rely R08 is one of its main attractions. With an imposing octagonal grille, two-stage headlights, wide fenders, and glossy black details, the pickup conveys strength and modernity. Its 5.33 meters in length and a wheelbase of 3.23 meters place it in the mid-size pickup segment, with dimensions that rival models like the Hilux, Ranger, and S10.
Extended Version
The Rely R08 will also be sold in an LWB (long wheelbase) version, with a length of 5.61 meters and a wheelbase of 3.51 meters, increasing the bed capacity to 1.81 meters, ideal for commercial or heavy-duty use.
-
With a 1.0 engine producing 75 hp and costing less than R$ 70,000, Fiat’s car returns to the podium as the cheapest in the country; a temporary promotion for the 2026 Like version reduces the price of the Fiat Mobi.
-
With a mild hybrid system of 48 V, 176 hp and a price of R$ 175,990 in the Sahara version, the new Jeep Renegade changes mostly on the inside, improves slightly in fuel consumption, and remains almost the same car.
-
With a 293.5 cm³ engine and a range of up to 400 km with a 14.1-liter tank, the Honda CB 300F Twister 2026 has up to 24.7 hp, an initial price of R$ 25,150, and already exceeds R$ 29,000 in the Fipe Table.
-
With a 1.3 engine, nearly 700 km of range, and Turbo 200, the Fiat model surpasses Polo, Tera HB20, and Onix, becoming the best-selling car in March; see the numbers for the Fiat Strada and others.
Engine and Performance
Currently, the pickup comes equipped with a 2.3 turbo diesel engine from Dongfeng, delivering 163 horsepower and 42.8 kgfm of torque. The transmission is an eight-speed automatic, with options for rear or all-wheel drive.
However, the standout feature of the R08 line is the plug-in hybrid design, which will be launched in the future and promises to offer electric range and cleaner performance.
Capacity and Robustness
Although the manufacturer has yet to disclose exact load and towing figures, the structure of the Rely R08 is based on a ladder chassis and robust suspension, ready for severe use.
The expectation is that it will maintain sector standards, with a bed capacity of over 1 ton and towing capabilities above 3 tons. Thus, the pickup is well-prepared to handle heavy-duty work, whether in the field, in commercial fleets, or even in urban use.
Technical Specifications of the Rely R08 (Diesel Version)
- Engine: 2.3L turbo diesel (Dongfeng)
- Power: 163 hp
- Torque: 42.8 kgfm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive: 4×2 or 4×4
- Length: 5.33 m (5.61 m in LWB version)
- Wheelbase: 3.23 m (3.51 m in LWB version)
- Bed: 1.53 m (1.81 m in LWB version)
- Features: 15.9″ screen, digital dashboard, ADAS, driving modes, induction charger
Technology and Interior of the Chery Pickup 2025
Internally, the Rely R08 bets on sophistication. The dashboard is dominated by a floating 15.9-inch screen, which integrates multimedia and vehicle controls. There is also a digital dashboard, driving mode selector, seats with electric adjustment, leather materials, and an induction charger. It is an environment much closer to a premium SUV than a traditional pickup.
Safety Package
In terms of safety, the R08 features lane-keeping assist, blind-spot alert, automatic emergency braking, and perimeter sensors. Versions with adaptive cruise control and an AI-based driving assistant called Falcon are expected.
These systems position the Rely R08 as one of the most technologically advanced pickups in its category, ready to meet both demanding users and companies that value safety and fleet control.
Platform for the Future
Built on the Mars Architecture platform from Chery, the pickup is ready for total electrification. This means that both plug-in and 100% electric versions are already planned in the engineering of the model, facilitating the scalability of the line. This flexibility is strategic considering the energy transition impacting the automotive sector globally.
Market and Global Strategy
The Rely R08 was officially launched in China in June 2025. In Brazil, it is speculated that the model will arrive under the Jaecoo banner, a premium brand of the Chery group. This strategy shows the manufacturer’s intention to globalize its presence in the pickup segment.
Price and Competitors
In China, the pickup is priced between RMB 100,000 and 150,000 (R$ 70,000 to R$ 105,000 in direct conversion). This positions it as a direct competitor to models like the Great Wall Poer, JAC Hunter, and, of course, the Toyota Hilux. The cost-benefit proposal combined with technology is the major differentiator against traditional rivals. In emerging markets, this relationship between value and technology can be decisive in consumer choice.
Expanding Segment
In May 2025, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), the Chinese pickup market recorded 52,000 units sold, representing a 13.6% increase compared to May 2024. The electric pickup segment in China has shown significant growth.
This trend indicates the acceptance potential for models like the R08. Electrification is consolidating as a growth vector in the segment, driven by both environmental regulations and consumer demand.
Market Outlook
The Chery Pickup 2025 Rely R08 stands out as an ambitious bet. In addition to facing traditional and established competition, it arrives with a modern visual language, electrification proposal, and technological packages that attract attention. It is a bold response to the growing demand for pickups with car-like design and features, without losing the versatility expected in the segment.
If the manufacturer can ensure good after-sales service, robustness in real use, and competitive pricing, the R08 could carve out a space among fleet owners, farmers, and urban drivers looking for a versatile and up-to-date pickup. Its success could pave the way for other Chinese hybrid pickups and mark the beginning of a new phase in the segment.
The competition Chery Rely vs Toyota Hilux promises to raise the bar for demands and innovation across all competitors, directly benefiting consumers with more options, technology, and better prices.
Não sei por que treinam em lançar camionete abaixo de 200 CV. Só pra se lascar igual a Fiat, e depois mudar o motor.