Lepas L8 Super Hybrid PHEV

The LEPAS L8 is the flagship debut model from LEPAS, Chery’s new premium-leaning brand. In the UAE, the key version is the L8 Super Hybrid: a spacious five-seat plug-in hybrid SUV designed to combine EV-style daily driving with long-distance petrol-backed flexibility. Its 18.4 kWh LFP battery provides around 90 km of claimed electric driving, while total combined range is quoted at roughly 1,100–1,300 km depending on test cycle and market. That makes the L8 particularly relevant for UAE buyers who want to cover local commuting largely on electricity but regularly drive between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Northern Emirates without planning journeys around public charging. The cabin is one of its strongest selling points, with a 2,800 mm wheelbase, generous rear legroom, a 507-litre boot and a high level of comfort and technology equipment. Higher-specification equipment includes a 13.2-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sony premium audio, panoramic roof, heated and ventilated seats, massage functions, 50W wireless phone charging and a broad suite of driver-assistance systems.

Performance: The Super Hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 204 hp electric motor. Current international production specifications quote around 279 hp and 365 Nm combined, with 0–100 km/h in approximately 7.9 seconds. Around town, the electric motor does most of the work, so the L8 feels smooth, quiet and immediately responsive. The transition between electric and hybrid operation is impressively seamless, and when the petrol engine joins in it is generally unobtrusive rather than coarse. Performance is more than adequate for quick overtakes on the E11 or Sheikh Zayed Road, although this is a refined family SUV rather than a performance model. Braking: Regenerative braking is available in multiple levels, but the L8 does not offer the strong one-pedal driving feel of a full EV. International testers have also noted some inconsistency in brake-pedal feel as regenerative braking hands over to the conventional friction brakes. It is not a major weakness, but it can require a little familiarisation. Ride & Handling: The L8 is at its best on the highway. Wind and road noise are well suppressed and the suspension settles noticeably at motorway speeds, making it a strong match for regular Abu Dhabi–Dubai journeys. Around town, however, international reviews have been more critical of the secondary ride, with sharper bumps producing more vertical movement and fidgeting than expected from a premium-positioned SUV. The steering is light and easy but provides relatively little feedback. Grip and stability are good, but the car is tuned for comfort and ease rather than enthusiastic cornering. UAE-specific chassis calibration may differ, so a test drive on local roads is worthwhile.

Official Dealer: LEPAS is officially represented in the UAE by Al Ghurair Mobility. The brand launched locally in 2026, with showroom and after-sales coverage being expanded across the Emirates. Warranty: The UAE warranty package is a major strength. The L8 Super Hybrid is offered with a 7-year / 200,000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year / 160,000 km PHEV battery warranty and a 10-year / 1,000,000 km engine warranty. Current UAE offers have also included seven years of roadside assistance. Service: Buying through the official network is especially important on a plug-in hybrid because the car combines a high-voltage battery, electric motor, turbocharged petrol engine and dedicated hybrid transmission. Al Ghurair provides local diagnostics, warranty handling and high-voltage support. Unlike a pure EV, the L8 still requires engine oil, filters and conventional engine servicing, although regular electric-first use should reduce fuel consumption and engine running time.

The case for a grey-import L8 is relatively weak now that LEPAS has an official UAE distributor. Imported examples may have different software, connected services, charging equipment, thermal-management calibration or market-specific specifications, and they will not automatically benefit from Al Ghurair’s local vehicle, battery and engine warranties. That matters more on a PHEV than on a simple petrol car because there are two propulsion systems to support. Unless a parallel-import vehicle is offered at a very substantial discount, the official GCC-specification car is likely to make considerably more sense for most UAE buyers.