An Inverclyde couple are among the first UK owners of the Lepas L8 SUV after becoming the first customers to collect the vehicle from an Arnold Clark dealership.

Isabel Vallely, from Wemyss Bay, collected her new L8 alongside her husband Gordon from Arnold Clark’s new Lepas dealership in Greenock.

Having previously driven a Volkswagen Golf, Isabel said she was immediately drawn to the L8 when she first saw it, particularly its distinctive colour, ‘Mystic Purple’.

Isabel said: “I loved it as soon as I saw it, especially the colour. It looks fantastic and it drives amazing. I’ve already had so many compliments about it, and one person even compared it to a Porsche!

“I’m absolutely delighted with it and can’t wait to enjoy driving it.”

The handover marks an important milestone for Lepas as the Chinese manufacturer prepares to establish itself in the UK market.

Owned by global automotive group Chery, Lepas is entering the UK with the L8, its flagship SUV, available in two trim levels: Essence, beginning at £34,900; and Elevate, starting at £37,900.

Arnold Clark recently announced its partnership with Lepas, becoming one of the first official UK franchise partners for the brand and its 36th manufacturer partner.

The new partnership builds on Arnold Clark’s existing relationship with Chery, following the successful introduction of Omoda and Jaecoo across the retailer’s network over the past two years.

Paul McCafferty, general manager at Arnold Clark Greenock Lepas, said: “It’s fantastic to see Isabel and Gordon taking delivery of the very first Lepas L8 from our Greenock dealership.

“Moments like this are particularly exciting as we introduce a new manufacturer to our customers, and it’s brilliant to hear how much Isabel loves the car already.

“The L8 certainly makes an impression, and we’re looking forward to welcoming more customers and introducing them to the Lepas brand over the coming weeks and months.”