The automotive landscape is ever-evolving, and the 2024 Chery Omoda 5 has emerged as a promising player in the Australian market. This compact SUV combines style, practicality, and affordability, making it an intriguing choice for budget-conscious buyers. Let’s dive into the details and explore what the Omoda 5 brings to the table.
Pros and Con
Pros
- Distinctive Design: The Omoda 5 boasts a sleek and modern exterior, with sharp lines and an eye-catching front grille. It stands out in a sea of cookie-cutter SUVs.
- Spacious Interior: Despite its compact dimensions, the cabin offers ample space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items.
- Value for Money: Chery has priced the Omoda 5 competitively, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: The touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Cons
- Engine Performance: The Omoda 5’s engine lacks the punch of some competitors. It’s adequate for city driving but may feel strained on highways.
- Plastic Interior Materials: While the design is pleasant, some interior materials feel cheap and could use an upgrade.
- Limited Dealer Network: Chery’s dealer network in Australia is still growing, which may affect after-sales service availability.
How Much Does it Cost?
The beauty of the Omoda 5 is its affordability. Starting at a very attractive $31,204 (before on-road costs) for the base model, it undercuts established players like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Mitsubishi ASX. With four trim levels to choose from, you can customize your Omoda 5 to fit your needs and budget.
Features and Benefits
- Stylish Design: Turn heads with the Omoda 5’s sleek and modern exterior.
- Feature-Packed Interior: Enjoy a comfortable and luxurious driving experience with features like leather seats (on higher trims), a panoramic sunroof, and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
- Large Touchscreen Infotainment System: Stay connected and entertained with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Get all the driving information you need at a glance with a modern digital display.
Safety First: Keeping You Protected
Safety is paramount, and the Omoda 5 takes it seriously. It’s received a five-star ANCAP safety rating, thanks to its suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Unveiling the Best
Running Costs
The 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine delivers decent power while keeping fuel consumption low. Expect figures around 7.3L/100km, which translates to good fuel economy for city driving and highway cruising.
Facing the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?
The Omoda 5 goes head-to-head with some well-established names in the small SUV segment. Compared to the Toyota Corolla Cross, it offers a more distinctive design and a potentially lower price tag. However, the Corolla Cross might have a slight edge in terms of resale value and brand recognition.
Conclusion
A Promising Newcomer with Room to Grow
The 2024 Chery Omoda 5 is a bold entry into the Australian market. It offers a compelling package of style, features, safety, and affordability. While it may lack the brand recognition of some competitors, its impressive features list and competitive pricing make it a car worth considering.
Rating: 8/10
The Omoda 5 is a strong contender in the small SUV segment. With its stylish design, feature-rich interior, and focus on safety, it stands out as a great option for budget-conscious drivers who prioritize value. If you’re looking for a fresh alternative with all the essential features, the Omoda 5 deserves a test drive. Remember, it’s still early days for Chery in Australia, so long-term reliability remains to be seen. But based on what it offers now, the Omoda 5 is a promising newcomer with the potential to shake things up in the small SUV segment.
