Chery QQ3: The Small Chinese EV Poised to Rival the Renault 5 in Europe
Published: 10/02/2026
Chery QQ3: The Small Chinese EV Poised to Rival the Renault 5 in Europe
Chinese automaker Chery has opened pre-orders for its new electric model, the Chery QQ3. This small electric city car is raising expectations as it could compete with the Renault 5 E-Tech in the European market, and potentially in Portugal.
A New Generation of Electric Vehicles
Established in China since 1997, Chery is known for its wide range of vehicles and now plans to expand into Europe. The Chery QQ3 exemplifies this strategy by bringing a new generation of design and technology. The first version of this model was launched in 2003, selling over 1.4 million units in China.
Compact and Modern Design
The Chery QQ3 stands out with its rounded, modern design. Its compact dimensions, measuring 4.20 meters in length, 1.81 meters in width, and 1.57 meters in height, make it a direct competitor to the Renault 5 E-Tech. The oval LED headlights and solid front grille complement its contemporary look.
Technology and Interior
Inside, the Chery QQ3 offers a technological environment with a 2K touchscreen measuring 15.6 inches and a digital instrument cluster. The car boasts an impressive 35 storage spaces, along with a rear trunk capacity ranging from 375 to 1,450 liters and a "frunk" of 70 liters.
Performance and Range
The Chery QQ3 is available in two power versions: 78 and 121 horsepower. The range, according to the Chinese CLTC cycle, varies between 280 and 401 km, translating to approximately 238 to 340 km in the European WLTP cycle. While sufficient for a city car, the range is comparable to the Renault 5 E-Tech, which offers up to 400 km with its 52 kWh battery.
Price and Availability
Although Chery has not announced the official price for the European market, the first version of the QQ was priced from 29,900 yuan, or about 3,626 euros. The European market price is expected to be significantly higher due to import duties and tariffs. For the Portuguese market, a 3-5% increase compared to European prices can be anticipated due to VAT differences.
Potential in the Portuguese Market
The Chery QQ3 has the potential to attract Portuguese buyers looking for a compact and affordable electric vehicle. With new Chinese brands entering the European market, such as Chery, consumers have more choices. The presence of modern features and a competitive price can make the QQ3 an appealing option in Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chery QQ3 electric starts at 68,900 yuan (approximately €8,800) in China. For the European market, the estimated price is between €15,000 and €20,000, factoring in import tariffs and homologation. In Portugal, the price could be 3-5% higher due to VAT differences, potentially ranging from €15,500 to €21,000, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles available.
The Chery QQ3 measures 4.20 m in length, 1.81 m in width, and 1.57 m in height, with a 2,700 mm wheelbase. It is available with two rear-mounted electric motors: 58 kW (78 hp) and 90 kW (121 hp). Battery options include 29.48 kWh and 41.28 kWh packs, providing CLTC ranges of 310 km and 420 km respectively (estimated WLTP: 238-340 km). Fast charging takes just 16.5 minutes from 30% to 80%. The interior features a 15.6-inch 2K touchscreen and a Snapdragon 8155 chip.
The Chery QQ3 positions itself between the Dacia Spring and the Renault 5 E-Tech. Compared to the Dacia Spring (45 hp, 225 km WLTP, ~€17,900), the QQ3 offers more power (78-121 hp) and greater range (up to 340 km WLTP). Against the Renault 5 E-Tech (150 hp, up to 400 km WLTP, from ~€25,000), the QQ3 has less range but should cost significantly less. The QQ3 stands out with its generous 375-1,450 litre boot, 70-litre frunk, and 15.6-inch touchscreen.
The Chery QQ3 opened pre-sales in China in March 2026, with deliveries starting in the Chinese market. For Europe, Chery has expressed its intention to launch the model, but no official date has been announced. Considering the European homologation process and the brand's expansion strategy, arrival in Portugal could occur between late 2026 and early 2027. Chery already has a presence in several European countries, which could facilitate the QQ3's entry.
Chery has been expanding its European presence and is already active in several markets through its Omoda and Jaecoo sub-brands, which are sold in Portugal by JAP. The parent Chery brand does not yet sell directly in Portugal, but the existing infrastructure through JAP could facilitate the introduction of models like the QQ3. Founded in 1997, Chery is one of China's largest automakers, with a proven track record in over 80 countries.
Conclusion: What to Expect from the Chery QQ3
The arrival of the Chery QQ3 in the European market, including Portugal, promises to heat up competition in the compact electric vehicle segment. With a modern design, advanced technology, and reasonable range options, the QQ3 might challenge established models like the Renault 5 E-Tech. Potential Portuguese buyers should stay tuned for future updates on pricing and market availability.