Omoda (and its sister brand, Jaecoo) has had a full-on start to life in the UK. Both are among the fastest-growing manufacturers in the country, thanks in part to competitive pricing and 73 dealerships dotted around the nation. While Omoda’s first car, the 5, and its electric counterpart, is at the more affordable, run-of-the-mill end of the market, the new Omoda 9 is much more upmarket. Aiming to take on the big boys, the top-of-the-range Omoda is quite the proposition.
A Well-Rounded Top Trumps Card
There’s not a key statistic that lets down the Omoda 9, painting a picture of superb usability – no matter the scenario. For example, the ‘Super Hybrid Sytem’ (self-charging, but it can also be plugged in) comprised of a 1.5-litre TGDI engine, dual electric motors and a 34.46 kWh battery allow for a range of 700 miles, 93 of which can be enjoyed in the serenity of electric-only power.
Overtaking should be no bother, thanks to 443bhp and 700Nm of pulling power on tap. This translates to a 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds. If tranquility is more your thing, ‘acoustically optimised’ tyres and double laminated glass ensure that there’s just 45.8 dB of noise at urban speeds. Smooth driving is also promised through the use of the three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission.
The Omoda 9 comes with one of the best warranties in the industry as standard. Coverage extends for up to 7 years/100,000 miles with no limit on mileage in the first 3 years, while the battery is under warranty for 8 years.
And, most importantly, the price? It can be yours for £44,990, with everything included as standard. This is slightly cheaper than rivals from established premium European brands, although standard specifications on those cars are inferior and options are dear.
Premium Wasn’t an Overstatement
Inside, the Omoda 9 has followed in the footsteps of many premium interiors in the form of a giant touchscreen. A 24.6-inch unit is split in two to provide the driver with information and control the key features of the car.
The features are pretty remarkable, particularly for the mid-range pricing. Ambient lighting, a cooled wireless charging pad and a sunroof are hallmarks of upmarket motors, whereas a headrest-equipped, 14-speaker SONY surround sound system and air purification are typically found on cars much higher up the price ladder. Furthermore, there’s also a 540-degree panoramic view camera with transparent view.
Comfort is clearly a priority. Just look at the quilted leather seats, which are all heated and ventilated (aside from the rear central one, unlucky for whoever is stuck there). Rear passengers can also electronically recline their thrones.
The long list of features isn’t limited to the interior, though, as shown by the electromagnetic suspension, intelligent all-wheel drive and six drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Mud, Snow and Off-Road).
A Bold, Stylish Design
Similar to the preceding 5, the Omoda 9 has quite a distinct look. The front end has a futuristic look with prominent LEDs. If LEDs are your thing, it’s your lucky day. The 9 has 134 LED daytime running lights, which all illuminate upon unlocking. Beat that, Audi.
The side has a clean, non-confrontational design, and the rear has a sharp elegance to it, akin to the front. It may turn some heads, although that could be largely due to Omoda still being relatively unheard of in the UK, but there’s nothing to write home about – unlike the spec sheet.
