Frugal Omoda C5 SHS hybrid launching in SA soon

Omoda is expanding its local C5 line-up with the new C5 SHS.

Scheduled to arrive at SA dealerships in March, the hybridised compact crossover combines a 1.5l four-cylinder petrol engine with a high-output electric motor and a 1.83kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack.

Omoda, a subsidiary of Chinese automotive powerhouse Chery, claims the powertrain pushes out a combined output of 165kW and 310Nm. This is delivered to the front wheels via the marque’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT).

While performance is surprisingly brisk — 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds — fuel consumption across the combined cycle measures in at 5.3l/100km with C0₂ emissions weighing in as low as 120g/km. This impressive frugality gives the C5 SHS a theoretical driving range of more than 1,000km on a single tank.

Equipment levels are generous on the C5 SHS, with standard niceties including:

• noise-suppressing glass;
• black leather upholstery;
• a powered tailgate;
• sunroof;
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster;
• eight-speaker sound system; and
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Customers can also look forward to 20 driver assistance systems such as:

• blind spot detection;
• rear cross-traffic alert; and
• lane change assist.

Omoda said pricing and further details on the C5 SHS will be shared closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date.