Lepas brand to enter Australian market

CHERY has announced that it will launch its offshoot Lepas brand into the Australian market in 2026, bringing with it a “new generation of bold, design-led SUVs that blend passion with practicality and speak to drivers seeking more than just functionality”.

Launched globally earlier this year, Lepas is said to combine the words ‘leap’ and ‘passion’ in an attempt to target a youthful audience. It will join a suite of Chery brands that include Aiqar, Exeed, Exlantix, Himla, iCar, Jaecoo, Jetour, Kaiyi, Karry, Luxeed, Omoda, Rely, and others.

While the Chinese importer has not confirmed which models it intends to offer locally, supplied images of the L8 mid-sized SUV suggest that model is the first cab off the rank.

The Lepas L8 is said to offer leopard-like aesthetics with sleek styling and innovative lighting signatures that target “next-generation urban elites”. It debuted in April this year and has made its way into select markets in Africa, Asia, and Russia, with more to come.

The manufacturer says it hopes to sell into a total of 45 countries by the end of 2027.

The 2026 Lepas L8 is available with internal combustion (a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol), plug-in hybrid, and battery electric drivelines, though it is unclear which of these options will be offered in Australia.

Lepas said earlier that it plans to offer five other models across its range within three years and aims to sell 500,000 units globally by 2028.

While it is not known which order the vehicles will be launched, GoAuto understands these will include the L6, L4, L3, L2, and L1, assumedly with each number reflecting the size and position of the vehicle within the Lepas range.

“Lepas is about more than just transport, it’s about expression, emotion and energy,” said Lepas Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris.

“Australian SUV buyers have had practicality covered for years. What they’ve been missing is personality. Lepas delivers both.

“Breaking away from the conventional, responsible-but-boring SUV category, Lepas introduces a new era of mobility, one that feels as good as it functions.

“From expressive design to vibrant colour palettes and driver-focused interiors, every detail of a Lepas SUV is built to inspire individuality and joy.”

While we will have to wait until close to the model’s Australian launch to learn more about its pricing, specification, and availability, Mr Harris says the future model will combine the versatility and reliability expected of an SUV with advanced features designed for urban and suburban living.

“Customers can expect a suite of modern technologies, premium design elements and practical comforts to suit everyday needs,” he added.

“We are thrilled to bring Lepas to Australia, a market that values both lifestyle and practicality.

“Lepas is a brand for those who want to live life with confidence, colour and style.”