Get ready for a game-changer in the UK automotive scene as Omoda, a Chinese manufacturer, gears up to make its mark with the anticipated Omoda 5 SUV set to hit the roads in early 2024. This family-sized SUV is poised to challenge established players and promises an exciting blend of style, technology, and affordability.
The Omoda 5, slightly shorter than the VW ID.4 but longer than the Hyundai Kona, is set to make waves as an all-electric vehicle powered by a robust 61 kWh battery, delivering an impressive range of 451 km. Safety takes center stage with the Omoda 5 boasting a five-star Euro NCAP rating earned last year, ensuring peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.
Eye-catching features of the Noble trim level include a bold front grille and sporty red accents on the side mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels. The SUV’s profile stands out with a rakish design, enhanced by a blacked-out C-pillar creating a distinctive ‘floating roof’ effect.
Inside, the Omoda 5 promises an elegant finish and top-notch build quality, rivaling the best in its class. The interior boasts an Android-based infotainment system with Apple CarPlay support, a voice assistant for seamless control, and an eight-speaker Sony sound system for an immersive audio experience. Adjustable ambient lighting reflecting different driving modes adds an intriguing touch to the overall package.
The dashboard features a pair of 10.25-inch displays, one dedicated to infotainment and the other for driver instruments. Omoda wisely retains physical buttons for heating and ventilation controls, ensuring practicality and ease of use.
The rear cabin, designed to comfortably accommodate six-footers, maintains ample headroom despite the slightly sloping roofline and sunroof. With a 380-liter boot capacity comparable to a Volkswagen ID.3, loading is made easy thanks to the minimal load lip.
What sets the Omoda 5 apart is its attractive entry point of €27,600 in the UK, undercutting competitors and potentially becoming its key weapon in the market. However, one challenge lies ahead for Omoda – building a robust dealer network in the UK. Matthew Upton, the UK branding manager, sets an ambitious goal of establishing 50 outlets by March, coinciding with the Omoda 5’s expected launch, highlighting the significance of a widespread network in reaching potential customers.
The Omoda 5 marks just the beginning of Omoda’s venture into the UK market, with the Jaecoo 7, a larger and more premium SUV, set to follow. The Jaecoo 7 will offer a choice of petrol or plug-in-hybrid powertrains, further solidifying Omoda’s presence and innovation in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.”
Source: autoexpress
