The Lepas L8 lands in Spain as a 4.7-meter plug-in hybrid SUV with 279 horsepower and a starting price under 34,000 euros. Its roomy interior and bold design put pressure on established rivals in the crowded C-segment.
Lepas has entered Spain’s SUV market with the L8, priced at 33,990 euros. This move puts direct pressure on established models like the Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan, offering similar size and power for less money. Spanish automotive outlets note that this launch price is part of the brand's Plan Auto+ campaign, with 0% TIN financing through Santander Consumer Finance, making the L8 one of the most competitively priced plug-in hybrids available.
The L8 measures nearly 4.7 meters long, placing it at the larger end of the segment. Its plug-in hybrid system pairs a 1.5 TGDI petrol engine with two electric motors and an 18 kWh battery, producing 279 horsepower. Independent Spanish sources confirm that this setup moves the L8’s 2,200 kilos with ease, especially during acceleration and overtaking, where the hybrid system’s power is most noticeable.
Lepas launched its Spanish sales network with 52 points of sale, signaling a well-prepared commercial infrastructure for the brand's entry.
Inside, the L8 stands out from the usual formula. The oval steering wheel, integrated controls, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster give the cabin a modern feel. The 13.2-inch central touchscreen, unique to Lepas, handles infotainment simply. The dashboard materials feel solid, and physical buttons for climate and drive modes add practical touches.
Rear passengers get more space than expected, with legroom and headroom that match much larger vehicles. Even with a tall driver, the back seats remain comfortable. The boot holds 507 liters, expanding to 1,314 liters with the rear seats folded. There are 47 storage compartments throughout the cabin, which families and travelers will appreciate. The L8 also comes with a 7-year or 150,000 km warranty and 3 years of roadside assistance, a point highlighted by Spanish automotive media.
On the road, the L8’s chassis feels more balanced than other Chery group models. The suspension keeps body roll in check, though the steering feels artificial and doesn’t give much feedback. Cabin insulation is another strength, with little noise or vibration reaching the interior, even at higher speeds.
The L8 offers an electric-only range of about 90 km and a total range up to 1,040 km, emphasizing efficiency for families and long-distance travel. This positions the model as a direct competitor in the D-segment SUV market, according to multiple independent reviews.
Lepas describes itself as “one step above mainstream brands and just below premium manufacturers.” The L8’s design, inspired by the leopard, shows in its sharp headlights and muscular side profile. The rear features a full-width light bar for a modern look. Spanish media report that Lepas is part of Chery’s broader European expansion, with plans to launch the L6 and L4 in Spain before the year ends.
For now, Lepas is focusing on plug-in hybrids and electric models in Spain, all with the Cero emissions label. The L8 comes in two versions, with the base price of 41,700 euros dropping to 33,990 euros after discounts and Plan Auto+ incentives. This pricing strategy is meant to disrupt a segment already crowded with options, and the difference between the base and promotional prices is clearly noted in Spanish automotive reports.
Competition in Spain’s hybrid SUV market is heating up, as seen in recent comparisons between electrified models aimed at family buyers. The arrival of the L8 shows that Chinese-backed brands are ready to compete directly, challenging established names on both price and equipment.
The L8 offers a mix of space, strong hybrid performance, and a price that forces rivals to reconsider their own offerings. The real question is whether Spanish buyers will trust a new brand in a segment where reputation and aftersales support still matter. For now, the L8’s launch signals that established brands can no longer take their position for granted. The market has become more competitive—and more interesting.