Kazakhstan’s automotive industry continues to gain momentum. The Chery Kazakhstan team, part of Astana Motors, organized an off-road test drive of the new Chery C8 crossover produced at the Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan plant in Almaty. The DKNews.kz team also joined the journey to evaluate the new model firsthand in real road conditions.
Посмотреть эту публикацию в Instagram
The format of the event was deliberately chosen to be as demonstrative as possible – a long-distance drive to the Tamgaly Tas Gorge, one of the sacred sites of the Almaty region and a UNESCO World Heritage location.
The route brought together auto experts, bloggers, media representatives, and car enthusiasts. For the participants, it was not just a short test drive, but a full-fledged journey of 380 kilometers, allowing them to experience the vehicle in real-life driving conditions.
380 kilometers behind the wheel
The test-drive format went far beyond a short city loop. Starting from a single point, participants covered a total distance of 380 kilometers, spending the entire route behind the wheel of the new Chery C8. This approach made it possible to evaluate the crossover’s behavior on highways, long stretches of road, and varying terrain — exactly the conditions most drivers face in real life.
According to Chery Kazakhstan, Tamgaly Tas symbolizes endurance, strength, and a long journey. These qualities, the company notes, reflect the character of the new Chery C8 itself.
The plant in Almaty is Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan. Photo: Astana Motors
Local production with modern standards
The Chery C8 is manufactured at the Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan plant in Almaty, one of the country’s key automotive production sites. Equipped with modern technology, the facility represents the growing capabilities of Kazakhstan’s automotive industry and its focus on quality and localization.
Production at the Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan plant. Photo: Astana Motors
Designed for everyday life
Positioned as a spacious and practical crossover, the Chery C8 is built for daily urban use as well as trips beyond the city. The model targets buyers looking for a functional, comfortable, and affordable vehicle. In Kazakhstan, the price of the Chery C8 starts at 9,490,000 tenge.
The crossover is powered by an efficient 1.5T turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed 6DCT robotic transmission. Increased ground clearance, a roomy interior, and a generous luggage compartment make it well suited for families and active lifestyles.
“Today, the crossover market is developing rapidly, and buyers increasingly want a vehicle that combines comfort, practicality, modern equipment, and an affordable price. The Chery C8 was created with exactly this approach in mind. The trip to Tamgaly Tas allowed participants to truly experience the car and feel its character on the road,” said Yermek Zheksembayev, Deputy Director of Chery Kazakhstan.
Strong equipment from the base version
Even in its standard configuration, the Chery C8 offers an impressive level of equipment. Features include:
- an EPB electronic parking brake with AutoHold
- electric power steering
- heated front seats
- keyless entry
- a multimedia system with a large touchscreen
- practical interior trim in artificial leather
The exterior is completed by 18-inch alloy wheels and a restrained, versatile design aimed at a wide audience.
Real impressions from the road
Automotive blogger Anzor Gasaev, who completed the entire route, shared his impressions after the test drive:
“I drove the full distance, and this kind of format really shows what a car is capable of. The Chery C8 left a very positive impression: a comfortable interior, clear ergonomics, and calm, confident behavior on the highway. The car holds the road well, doesn’t tire you out on long drives, and remains convenient for city use. It’s an excellent price-to-quality ratio — for 9.5 million tenge, you get a well-thought-out, modern crossover for everyday life.”
Blogger Anzor Gasayev. Photo: Astana Motors
More than just a test drive
In addition to driving, participants took part in a cultural and educational program at the Tamgaly Tas museum-reserve. Activities included guided tours, archery sessions, and leather-weaving workshops, turning the event into a combination of automotive testing and cultural discovery.
Chery’s growing presence in Kazakhstan
Today, Chery ranks among the leaders of Kazakhstan’s automotive market and consistently holds strong positions in sales ratings. In 2026, the brand marks five years of official presence in Kazakhstan. Since sales began in December 2021, more than 46,000 vehicles have been sold nationwide, and the official dealer network now includes over 26 auto centers across the country.
Chery places strong emphasis on after-sales service, providing professional support to owners regardless of where the vehicle is operated. The continuous expansion of its international service network ensures consistent standards and a high level of customer care for Chery C8 owners.
The new Chery C8 is not just another model launch — it is a clear signal of how locally produced vehicles in Kazakhstan are becoming more competitive, modern, and ready for real roads and real lives.
