Chinese automaker Chery has submitted four patent images of a rather small new crossover SUV, which seems to be aiming for a slightly more ‘rugged’ and no-frills appearance compared to the company’s other current models. It could be Chery’s response to Haval’s Big Dog a.k.a. Dargo.

The car sports a boxy exterior with an almost upright front end and a rectangular front grille. It has DRLs lodged between the hood cover and the bumper, and two-tier headlights integrated into the bumper itself.

 

The side view reveals large overhangs and a roofline that slants towards the rear end. The latter has a horizontal LED stripe, a spoiler and large decorative exhaust finishers. Rounding off the exterior are retractable door handles.

For the time being, the vehicle is known internally as the T1EJ. Since the designation ‘T1E’ is already used by the Chery Tiggo 7 Plus, it makes sense for the newcomer to be based on the same platform. Engine-wise, the filings mention a choice between a 1.5-liter petrol engine rated at 156 PS and 230 Nm and its 1.6-liter variant capable of 197 PS and 290 Nm. The transmission is dual-clutch automatic in both cases.