Omoda's C9 launched in South Africa in late 2024 to mixed reactions. This was one of the first Chinese-made cars that demanded a premium price, yet once driven, it proved to be worth every cent. A year later, Omoda dusted off the C9 as a new derivative lands in South Africa.
Related: Omoda C9 (2024) First Drive Review
The new Omoda C9 PHEV was launched at a dual event that also saw the new Jaecoo J7 SHS launch. Both machines are new energy vehicles that offer incredible consumption figures and are Omoda Jaecoo's first foray into hybrid drivetrains on the African continent. We drove briefly to Gerotek Testing Facility in Pretoria to get to grips with these new vehicles.
Omoda C9 2.0TGDI 400T Explore AWD (2024) Review
The Car
Offered exclusively in the range-topping Explore trim, the C9 PHEV greets customers with refined exterior styling. It features an eye-catching diamond-shaped grille, daytime running lights, and LED head and taillights. The C9 PHEV boasts 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and privacy glass for the second row. Red-painted brake callipers hint at sportiness, underscoring the C9 PHEV’s performance capabilities. The C9 PHEV surrounds its occupants with premium finishes, advanced connectivity features, and intuitive technology. From soft-touch materials to an immersive sound system and intelligent driver assistance features, every detail reflects Omoda’s dedication to luxury.
Plug-in tech
A powerful combination of a high-efficiency electric motor and refined petrol engine delivers seamless power, with outputs totalling 440kW and 915Nm of torque. As such, the C9 PHEV impresses with responsive acceleration, but that doesn’t come at the cost of fuel consumption. With an electric-only range of up to 150 km and a combined range of over 1 100 km, the C9 PHEV suits daily commutes and weekend escapes. The combined fuel-use figure is as low as 1.4 L/100 km, making it an exceptionally efficient luxury SUV.
Charging is fast and straightforward, whether at home or one of South Africa’s growing network of public charging stations. The 34.5 Wh battery pack can be recharged in 5.5 hours when connected to a home charging Wall Box. Thanks to its 70kW fast-charging capability, the C9 PHEV can replenish its battery from 30-80% in 25 minutes when plugged into a DC fast charger.
Safety
The OMODA C9 PHEV comes standard with a range of driver-assist and safety systems, designed to keep occupants safe. The following safety systems can be found on the new OMODA C9 PHEV:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Automatic Braking (AEB)
- Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Brake (RCTB)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Change Assist (LCA)
- Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
- Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA)
- Traffic Congestion Assist (TCA)
Other safety features include front/rear parking sensors, a 540-degree surround-view camera, and front dual, front-side, side curtain, driver knee, and bolster airbags.
Model and Pricing
| Omoda C9 PHEV | R 999 900 |
Omoda offers a 7-year / 200 000km warranty and a 5-year / 75 000km service plan as standard. They also include a 10-year/1 million km engine warranty for the first owner and an industry-leading 10-year/200 000 km warranty on the electric drive unit.
Buyers also receive seven years of roadside assistance, offering added peace of mind and enhanced ownership value.
Verdict
The Omoda C9 was already good in its previous 2.0-litre guise, but now, with the addition of a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, it has elevated the premium family SUV to new heights. Our short drive and subsequent testing activity at Gerotek revealed the C9 to be an excellent car. Just barely touching the R1-million mark, the C9 PHEV is the next step for the Omoda brand and will take the fight to its European contemporaries.
