The Chery Group’s premium sub-brand, Lepas, is expanding its local presence. Following the introduction of the entry-level L4 crossover, the brand has provided Cars.co.za an exclusive pre-launch first look at its new mid-size offering, the Lepas L6.
We like: Immense rear passenger room; high level of standard safety tech and level 2 ADAS features; premium interior feel; comfortable ride quality; clever 3-tier adjustable boot floor versatility
We don’t like: Driver’s digital instrument cluster looks a bit basic and dated; overly light steering feel lacks feedback; lack of overtaking power when fully loaded
FAST FACTS
- Model: 2026 Lepas L6 1.5T Pantera
- Price: TBC
- Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine
- Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch transmission
- Power/Torque: 108 kW/225 Nm
- Claimed fuel consumption: 7.2 litres/100 km
- 0-100 kph: TBC
- Luggage capacity: 435-1 255 litres
Where does the Lepas L6 fit in?
The Lepas L6 is a mid-size family SUV that shares its underpinnings with the smaller L4 but boasts a significantly larger footprint. Positioned as a more premium alternative within the market, it brings a fresh design language to the segment. It will soon be joined by the flagship Lepas L8, which we drove at its international launch.
Read more: Lepas L4 (2026) Review
How the Lepas L6 fares in terms of…
Design & Packaging
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that feels vastly more upmarket than the L4’s. Soft-touch materials cover the critical surfaces and the fit and finish feel sturdy. The tech features list is expansive, highlighted by a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, a premium Sony sound system and even an N95-level air filtration system.
If there is a letdown, it is the driver’s digital instrument display, which looks a bit like an afterthought and lacks the premium design flair seen elsewhere in the cabin.
Passenger space in the rear is genuinely massive, offering generous headroom and immense kneeroom even behind a taller driver. Rear occupants are well catered for with dedicated air vents, 2 cup holders, a proper central 3-point safety belt and dual USB ports (one type-A and one type-C) to prevent arguments over charging devices. A massive panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, although an electric blind keeps the harsh South African sun at bay.
Moving to the luggage area, the boot is rated at 435 litres. While it might look slightly less competitive on paper than some segment rivals, it features a versatile 3-position adjustable boot floor. Dropping the floor to its lowest setting provides excellent depth, allowing bulky items to fit beneath the parcel shelf with ease. Fold the 60/40 split rear seats via the practical release loops, and the space expands significantly.
South African buyers will also appreciate that beneath the boot floor sits a traditional space-saver spare wheel rather than a simple puncture repair kit.
Performance & Efficiency
Under the bonnet of the initial launch variants is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Out on the road, the power delivery feels perky enough in urban driving conditions, and engaging sport mode noticeably sharpens the throttle response to give the SUV a bit more bite.
However, while the engine satisfies on the daily commute, its relatively low torque figure of 225 Nm raises questions about its ability to handle open-road overtaking manoeuvres when the car is fully loaded with a family, heavy luggage and perhaps a trailer. On the plus side, the braking performance is said to be class-leading, with a claimed 100-0 kph stopping distance of just 41 metres.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
Out on the road, the primary ride quality is notably comfortable and compliant. The steering, however, isn’t as impressive. It’s a touch too highly assisted. While this makes low-speed city manoeuvres and tight parking scenarios effortlessly easy, it lacks a bit of weighted feedback at higher speeds.
In flagship Pantera trim, the Lepas L6 comes packed with 22 Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functions, including radar-guided adaptive cruise control and a highly useful 540-degree surround-view camera system to take the stress out of tight city spots.
Lepas L6 Price & After-sales support
The L6 line-up currently consists of 2 ICE models – the Javan and this Pantera – with a PHEV around the corner. Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but we do know all models come with a 5-year/75 000 km warranty, 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty and 5-year/75 000 km service plan.
Verdict
The Lepas L6 enters a fiercely competitive segment, but it does so with an impressive array of family credentials. It offers a massive amount of standard equipment, a highly spacious cabin, and a refined driving experience.
While mediocre open-road performance under full load remains a consideration, as a total package for the tech-conscious family seeking ultimate value, it makes a very strong case for itself ahead of its official arrival.
Read more: Lepas SA says it will ‘definitely be in top 10’ in 5 years
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main interior design and tech highlights of the new Lepas L6 cabin?
A: The Lepas L6 cabin features premium soft-touch materials, a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, a premium Sony sound system, and an N95-level air filtration system. However, the driver’s digital instrument display is noted as looking a bit basic and dated.
Q: How practical is the rear passenger and luggage space in the Lepas L6?
A: The rear passenger area offers massive headroom and kneeroom alongside dedicated air vents and dual USB ports. The boot has a 435-litre capacity featuring a highly versatile 3-position adjustable floor, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat setup, and a space-saver spare wheel located beneath the floor.
Q: What engine and transmission power the initial launch variant of the Lepas L6?
A: The initial launch model is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering 108 kW of power and 225 Nm of torque.
Q: What warranty and after-sales support coverage will Chery’s Lepas brand provide for the L6?
A: Although official vehicle pricing is still to be confirmed, all Lepas L6 models will come standard with a 5-year/75 000 km vehicle warranty, a 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty, and a 5-year/75 000 km service plan.
