Omoda is a fashionable sister brand of Chery and currently exclusively offers the C5 range. However, that is about to change, as a few new models are on the way soon. The C5 was first introduced locally in 2023 but draws attention from crossover buyers with its futuristic styling and standard appointments.
Related: Omoda C5 1.5T 230T Elegance (2023) review
But before you sell your car quickly and easily here and start your search for new or used OMODA C5 models on AutoTrader. Let us first find out if it will meet your requirements and be a good car for a new driver.
Safety
For anyone wanting to buy a new or used model on AutoTrader, safety should be at the top of the list of requirements. Omoda seems to focus on this aspect in their vehicles as the C5 recently achieved a 5-star rating in the ANCAP or Australasian New Car Assessment Program. Here are some of the features that led to that awarded rating.
ABS brakes with electronic brake distribution and emergency brake assist bring the C5 to a halt. As standard, owners can expect traction and stability control, as well as a hill-start assist system to prevent rolling. In the case of a collision, no less than six airbags are fitted: a front and side airbag for each front occupant and two curtain airbags that protect the front and rear occupants.
Other safety systems include a tyre pressure monitoring system and park distance control sensors on the front and rear. A reverse camera is also fitted. Families will also be happy to know that ISOFIX anchor points are on both outer rear seats for child restraint seats.
Infotainment
Even in the entry-level Tech variant, customers get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The driver and occupants will get vehicle, safety and entertainment information on these screens. For hands-free cellular operation, navigation, and entertainment purposes, the infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Those who opt for the more premium Elegance and Elegance S derivatives will benefit from a more powerful 8-speaker Sony sound system.
Space and comfort
The OMODA C5 should comfortably host five occupants; however, the sloping roof towards the rear might constrict the headroom slightly for taller individuals. As for the luggage space, the C5 provides a very respectable 378-litre capacity. However, fold the rear seats flat so owners can access 1075-litres.
Performance
The Omoda C5 range, except for the C5 GT variants, features a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 115 kW and 230 Nm of torque under the bonnet. While OMODA does not provide the top speed and 0-100 km/h sprint times, we do have a claimed average combined fuel consumption figure of 6.9 L / 100 km.
For the C5 GT, Omoda installed a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 145 kW and 290 Nm of torque. While the Chinese automaker doesn't confirm the top speed, it does disclose that this derivative will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. As for fuel consumption, the claimed average combined fuel consumption figure is 6.8 L / 100 km.
Cost of Ownership
Included in the purchase price of an Omoda C5 is a 4-year / 150 000km vehicle warranty and a 10-year / 1 000 000 km engine warranty for the first owner. Also, you will get a 5-year / 70 000 km service plan with service intervals set at every 15 000.
| Omoda C5 230T Tech | from R 447 900 |
| Omoda C5 230T Lux | from R 477 900 |
| Omoda C5 230T Lux S | from R 479 900 |
| OmodaC5 230T Elegance | from R 507 900 |
| Omoda C5 230T Elegance S | from R 509 900 |
| Omoda C5 290T GT | from R 589 990 |
*The pricing indicated was correct at the time of writing this article, however, can change at any moment and without notice.
Verdict
If the pricing of the Omoda C5 is not a hurdle, the standard safety features and compact design make this an ideal vehicle for a new driver on the road. We would recommend any of the 230T variants until you become a more confident driver or complete an advanced driving course to provide you with the experience needed to pilot a more sporty vehicle.
