Chery tops Kantar’s Chinese automotive brand ranking for ninth straight year

Chery was named the highest-ranked Chinese automotive brand in Kantar’s 2026 BrandZ global brand builders report, placing 11th overall. The result comes as Chery UK expands quickly, with strong June registrations, more than 80 retail sites and a push to reach 100 by autumn.

Why it matters: - Chery’s latest ranking signals that Chinese automakers are being judged on more than price and product. - The brand’s UK growth shows that localisation, partnerships and trust-building are becoming central to global expansion. - The result gives Chery added visibility in a crowded UK market where brand credibility can shape sales momentum.

What happened: - Kantar named Chery the top-ranked Chinese automotive brand in the 2026 Kantar BrandZ Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders report. - Chery held that position for the ninth consecutive year and placed 11th overall. - At the Kantar BrandZ Launch & Globalisation Summit in London, Chery Auto Executive Vice President and Chery International President Zhang Guibing discussed the brand’s global expansion strategy. - Zhang appeared alongside Wang Xing, CEO of Kantar Greater China and Global Chair of BrandZ.

The details: - Chery’s UK strategy centers on localisation of talent, long-term investment and partnerships that position the brand as a local stakeholder rather than only a vehicle exporter. - Chery UK has partnered with AFC Bournemouth as Official Automotive Partner. - Chery UK is also Principal Partner and Official Car Partner of Soccer Aid for UNICEF. - The brand’s UK campaigns feature Sir Mo Farah CBE, Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy. - Chery UK launched in August 2025. - The company became one of the UK’s fastest-growing automotive brands after launch. - Chery UK registered almost 4,000 cars in June 2026. - Chery UK has more than 80 retailer sites open across the country. - The retailer network is planned to reach 100 sites by autumn. - Growth has been driven by the TIGGO SUV range and the Chery Super Hybrid powertrain in each model. - Chery says the CSH system combines electric-only driving for most day-to-day journeys with the range and convenience of a petrol engine when needed. - The TIGGO models come with a seven-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty.

Between the lines: - Chery’s messaging reflects a broader shift in how Chinese brands are trying to win overseas buyers. - The emphasis on UK sports partnerships and familiar British talent suggests a deliberate effort to localize the brand rather than market it as a generic import. - Kantar’s recognition also gives Chery a third-party credibility boost that can support retail growth and consumer confidence.

What's next: - Chery UK plans to keep expanding its retailer network to 100 sites by autumn. - The brand is likely to keep leaning on the TIGGO range and hybrid powertrains as it grows its UK presence. - Continued UK market gains will depend on whether Chery can convert awareness and partnerships into sustained sales.

The bottom line: - Chery is pairing a high-profile global brand ranking with rapid UK expansion, betting that local relevance will be as important as product competitiveness.