The SUV market is booming, and competition is fierce. But every now and then, a new player arrives with a bold claim: premium features at an affordable price. The Omoda 9 is exactly that kind of contender.

Built by Chery, one of China’s fastest-growing automakers, the Omoda 9 promises a combination of modern styling, a tech-packed cabin, strong eco credentials, and a 7-year warranty. It’s pitched directly against household names like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Kia Sportage, but at a much lower entry price.

But does it really deliver on those promises? Or will it, like a new build house, feel great at first but start showing cracks after a few months? In this in-depth Omoda 9 review, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from design and interior quality to driving performance, technology, pricing, and how it stacks against rivals.

---

Introduction – Why the Omoda 9 is Turning Heads

When a new SUV enters the European market, it usually has a steep hill to climb. Customers are familiar with established brands, and trust is not earned overnight. However, the Omoda 9 has been generating serious buzz for several reasons.

First, value for money. At just under £45,000 (or closer to £42,000 with discounts), the Omoda 9 undercuts German rivals by thousands while offering a richer equipment list. Features like 20-inch alloy wheels, premium Michelin tires, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and a 14-speaker Sony sound system are all standard. No long options list here—the Omoda 9 comes fully loaded from the start.

Second, its eco-friendly credentials. The Omoda 9 is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with an unusually large 34 kWh battery, offering up to 93 miles of electric-only driving. That’s nearly double what most PHEVs can manage. For many drivers, this means the Omoda 9 could function almost like a full EV for daily commutes while still retaining long-distance flexibility with its petrol engine.

Finally, the warranty and running costs make it appealing. A 7-year warranty, competitive leasing options, and low tax benefits for company car buyers make it a tempting alternative to the likes of Audi or BMW.

But while the spec sheet looks fantastic, a car’s real worth is measured by how it feels on the road and how well it holds up over time.

---

The Brand Behind Omoda – Who is Chery?

Many buyers may be unfamiliar with Chery, but in China, it’s a powerhouse.

Chery’s History in the Global Market

Chery was founded in 1997 and initially focused on affordable sedans and compact cars. Its early models were heavily inspired by European designs—sometimes even licensed copies. But fast forward to today, and Chery has matured into China’s fourth-largest automaker, selling over 2.6 million cars in 2023 alone.

That’s more than the combined sales of Seat, Peugeot, and Skoda. While still relatively unknown in Europe, Chery is already a major player in Asia, the Middle East, and South America.

Expansion into Europe with Omoda and Jaecoo

For its European entry, Chery is using two sub-brands:

• Omoda – aimed at stylish, urban-friendly crossovers and SUVs.

• Jaecoo – designed to be more rugged and off-road capable.

The Omoda 9, therefore, is positioned as the sleek, tech-heavy, and premium-leaning model, designed to tempt buyers who might otherwise consider a BMW X3 or Audi Q5. By combining strong design cues with an aggressive price point, Chery hopes to replicate the success that Korean brands like Kia and Hyundai achieved two decades ago.

---

Exterior Design – Modern Yet Familiar

SUVs live or die by their looks. Fortunately, the Omoda 9 manages to feel both contemporary and premium, even if some of its design influences are a little too familiar.

Front-End Styling and Lighting

At the front, the Omoda 9 sports a large grille with sleek LED headlights that wouldn’t look out of place on a Cadillac or Lexus. The vertical lighting elements give it a bold presence, while the daytime running lights stretch across the fascia for a modern touch.

The styling is undeniably derivative in places—Cadillac and Porsche cues are visible—but that doesn’t necessarily make it unattractive. If anything, the blend of familiar design DNA makes the Omoda 9 look instantly premium, which is no small feat for a newcomer brand.

Side Profile and Alloy Wheels

Moving to the side, the SUV rides on 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin tires, complete with noise-reducing foam for a quieter ride. Flush-fitting door handles, similar to those found on Tesla and Mercedes models, pop out when approached with the key.

The profile has shades of the Lexus RX, with a rising beltline and pronounced shoulder line that adds muscle without being too aggressive. Overall, the Omoda 9 strikes a balance between sporty and sophisticated—perfect for its intended market.

Rear Styling and Key Design Influences

The rear end is perhaps the most divisive. A full-width LED light bar gives it a premium look, but the fake exhaust outlets are a definite low point, especially when real twin pipes sit hidden underneath. Reviewers have criticized this design choice, and rightly so—it undermines an otherwise classy exterior.

Still, compared to rivals, the Omoda 9 holds its own. It looks posh enough to compete with Audi and Lexus, but without the inflated price tag.

---

Interior Quality – Premium Feel at a Lower Price

Step inside the Omoda 9, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a Mercedes. That’s no accident—many of the design cues and features are clearly inspired by German luxury brands.

Dashboard Layout and Build Quality

The dashboard design is dominated by a wide digital display, which houses both the driver’s instrument cluster and the infotainment system. Materials are mostly high quality, with soft-touch plastics, brushed trim, and leather upholstery.

Yes, there are some cheaper plastics lower down, but overall, the cabin feels more expensive than an Audi Q5 or BMW X3, which ironically have suffered from cost-cutting in recent years. Even the switchgear feels well-damped and solid, adding to the premium vibe.

Infotainment Screen & Digital Display

The central infotainment screen is responsive and packed with features. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, while built-in navigation can be mirrored directly into the driver’s display.

One neat trick: the sat-nav directions can be swiped into the digital driver’s display or head-up display for easier visibility. However, the placement of the speedometer—off-center and partially obscured by the steering wheel—has been criticized. Thankfully, the standard head-up display compensates for this oversight.

Seating Comfort and Space

The front seats are fully electric with memory settings, while the steering wheel is also power-adjustable. Comfort is excellent, though lateral support is limited, meaning you may slide around slightly during spirited driving.

Cabin noise is impressively low thanks to double-glazed windows, and the 14-speaker Sony sound system with headrest speakers is a highlight. This clever feature plays navigation prompts or Bluetooth calls only through the driver’s headrest speaker, so passengers aren’t disturbed.

Overall, the Omoda 9’s cabin delivers a genuine luxury feel without the luxury price tag.

---

Technology & Features – Packed with Gadgets

If you love tech, the Omoda 9 will feel like Christmas morning. Unlike premium brands that charge extra for every little option, Omoda packs everything in as standard.

Infotainment and Connectivity (Android Auto, Apple CarPlay)

The system is intuitive once you get used to the layout. Fast processors ensure minimal lag, and customization options are plentiful. The wireless phone charger supports up to 50W fast charging, keeping even the most power-hungry smartphones topped up quickly.

Ambient Lighting & Customization

The Omoda 9’s ambient lighting system offers over 250 color choices, multiple zones, and dynamic effects that can even pulse in sync with your music. The system is more advanced than what you’d find in many German rivals, adding to the sense of value.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Safety and driver-assist features are comprehensive:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Lane Keeping Assist

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

• Door Opening Warning (alerts if a cyclist or car is approaching)

The 360-degree camera system is another highlight, with an under-car view mode that makes parking or off-road driving much easier.

At this point, it’s clear: the Omoda 9 punches far above its price point when it comes to features.

---

Performance & Driving Experience

For many buyers, the most crucial question is: what’s it like to drive? The Omoda 9 may be packed with tech and features, but can it compete with established premium SUVs when it comes to real-world performance?

Powertrain and Hybrid Setup

Under the bonnet, the Omoda 9 combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a 34 kWh battery pack. Together, they deliver a total output of 350 horsepower, which is impressive for a plug-in hybrid SUV at this price point.

Unlike many hybrids that feel sluggish, the Omoda 9’s electric motor provides strong instant torque, making city driving effortless. In fact, during most short trips, you’ll hardly need the petrol engine at all. The huge battery means you can cover up to 93 miles on pure electric power, which is roughly double the range offered by rivals like the BMW X3 xDrive30e (31 miles) or the Audi Q5 TFSIe (37 miles).

Handling and Ride Comfort

The Omoda 9 is built more for comfort than sharp handling. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps well, and thanks to the Michelin Primacy tires with foam inserts, cabin noise is kept to a minimum.

That said, it’s not as engaging to drive as a BMW X3. The steering feels light and a little vague, and body roll is noticeable when pushing through corners. However, for everyday family use, the comfort-biased setup will likely appeal more than a stiff, sporty ride.

Braking and Driving Modes

The regenerative braking system can be adjusted, though some reviewers noted that the pedal feel is inconsistent. Fortunately, once you get used to it, it blends regen and hydraulic braking smoothly enough.

Multiple driving modes are available, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and EV-only mode. Sport sharpens throttle response, but realistically, most drivers will leave it in Comfort or EV-only.

Overall, the Omoda 9 is not a driver’s SUV, but it excels as a comfortable, quiet, and efficient daily commuter.

---

Practicality – Space, Storage & Everyday Usability

If you’re buying a family SUV, practicality matters just as much as performance. And here, the Omoda 9 does very well.

Rear Passenger Comfort

The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The flat floor design makes it more comfortable for a middle-seat passenger compared to rivals like the Q5 or X3, which have a large transmission tunnel.

Rear seat amenities include air vents, USB-C charging ports, and even heated rear seats. The wide-opening rear doors make it easy to install child seats, which parents will appreciate.

Boot Space & Flexibility

Boot space is generous, offering 471 litres with the seats up, expanding to 1,370 litres with the rear seats folded flat. While that’s slightly less than some rivals, the Omoda 9 makes up for it with clever storage solutions, including underfloor compartments for charging cables and hooks for shopping bags.

The powered tailgate is standard, and you can open it with a wave of your foot under the bumper—useful when your hands are full of groceries.

Family-Friendly Features

Families will love touches like the wide panoramic sunroof, which brightens the cabin, and the quiet electric drive, which is perfect for early morning school runs. The 14-speaker Sony system also makes long road trips more enjoyable, especially when passengers can enjoy clear sound without blasting the driver.

Taken as a whole, the Omoda 9 offers all the practicality most families need, wrapped in a stylish and comfortable package.

---

Efficiency & Running Costs

Efficiency is where the Omoda 9 stands out from rivals.

Electric-Only Range

Thanks to its oversized 34 kWh battery, the Omoda 9 boasts an official 93 miles of electric range. Even in real-world conditions, expect at least 70–80 miles, which makes it far more usable than most plug-in hybrids.

For many drivers, this means they’ll only use petrol on long journeys, as daily commutes can be done on electric power alone. With a home charger, topping up overnight is simple and cheap.

MPG and Fuel Economy

When running as a hybrid, the Omoda 9 is capable of over 200 mpg equivalent (when charged regularly). If you fail to charge the battery and rely solely on the petrol engine, however, fuel economy drops closer to 35 mpg. This highlights the importance of charging regularly to unlock its efficiency potential.

Tax Benefits and Savings

For company car drivers, the Omoda 9 is a huge win. With its low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rating, it’s significantly cheaper to run than a petrol-only Q5 or X3. Road tax is also lower thanks to the hybrid classification.

When factoring in reduced fuel bills, lower tax, and cheaper leasing, the Omoda 9 offers long-term savings that make it a smart financial choice.

---

Safety & Reliability

Safety is another area where Omoda has invested heavily, knowing European buyers demand it.

Euro NCAP Rating & Safety Kit

The Omoda 9 has been designed to achieve a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (official testing is still pending at the time of writing). Standard safety kit includes:

• Automatic Emergency Braking

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Blind-Spot Monitoring

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

• Lane-Keeping Assist

• Door Opening Warning

In fact, the Omoda 9 includes more safety features as standard than many German rivals, where similar systems cost thousands in optional packs.

Build Quality Concerns

As with any new brand entering Europe, questions remain about long-term reliability. While Chery has made huge strides in quality, the real test will be how these vehicles hold up after 5–10 years of daily use. Some plastics in the cabin feel slightly cheap, which could wear quickly.

7-Year Warranty

To ease concerns, Chery offers a 7-year / 150,000 km warranty, putting it on par with Kia. This gives buyers extra confidence, especially as the brand builds its reputation in Europe.

---

Omoda 9 vs Rivals

The real question for many buyers isn’t whether the Omoda 9 is good, but whether it’s better than established rivals. Let’s break it down.

Omoda 9 vs Audi Q5

• Price: Omoda 9 (£42,000) vs Q5 PHEV (£56,000)

• Electric Range: 93 miles vs 37 miles

• Tech: Omoda packs more features as standard

• Driving Feel: Q5 has sharper handling and stronger brand prestige

If you value driving dynamics and badge appeal, the Q5 still wins. But if you want more features and better range at a lower cost, the Omoda 9 is unbeatable.

Omoda 9 vs BMW X3

• Price: Omoda 9 much cheaper

• Interior: X3 has slightly better ergonomics, but Omoda feels more luxurious in some trims

• Range: Omoda doubles the electric range

• Reliability: BMW has proven durability, Omoda is untested

For buyers willing to take a chance on a new brand, the Omoda offers much more value.

Omoda 9 vs Kia Sportage

• Price: Similar, but Omoda has bigger battery and longer EV range

• Warranty: Both offer 7 years

• Tech: Omoda feels more premium inside

• Practicality: Sportage has slightly more boot space

The Kia is a safer bet in terms of reliability, but the Omoda 9 feels like a luxury SUV at a family SUV price

---

Pros & Cons of the Omoda 9

No car is perfect, and while the Omoda 9 offers incredible value, it also comes with some drawbacks. Let’s break down the strengths and weaknesses clearly.

Pros

1. Outstanding EV Range – The 93-mile electric-only range is best-in-class for a plug-in hybrid SUV, making daily commuting petrol-free for most buyers.

2. Packed with Tech – Features like the 15.6-inch screen, AR HUD, 14-speaker Sony audio, and advanced driver assists all come as standard, whereas rivals often charge extra.

3. Luxurious Cabin Design – From soft leather seats to ambient lighting and premium finishes, the Omoda 9 feels like a genuine luxury SUV at half the cost.

4. Affordable Price – With a starting price around £42,000, it massively undercuts Audi, BMW, and Mercedes.

5. 7-Year Warranty – This adds confidence for buyers unsure about a relatively new brand.

Cons

1. Unproven Reliability – Unlike BMW or Audi, Omoda is new to Europe, so long-term durability is still a question mark.

2. Driving Dynamics – While comfortable, it lacks the sharp handling and sporty feel of German rivals.

3. Brand Recognition – Many buyers still hesitate to purchase from a brand they don’t know well, which could affect resale values.

4. Interior Quality in Some Areas – A few plastics don’t feel as premium as they should, especially compared to an Audi Q5.

5. Limited Dealer Network – As Omoda expands in Europe, finding servicing centers may be more difficult in some regions.

In short, the Omoda 9 is a feature-rich, efficient, and affordable SUV, but buyers must weigh the risk of a newer, less established brand.

---

Pricing & Value for Money

One of the Omoda 9’s biggest selling points is its affordability compared to premium rivals.

Starting Price

• UK/Europe entry price: ~£42,000 (€48,000)

• Rivals: Audi Q5 PHEV starts at £56,000, BMW X3 PHEV starts at £55,000, and Mercedes GLC PHEV pushes beyond £60,000.

That’s a difference of at least £13,000, which is enough to pay for several years’ worth of fuel, insurance, and servicing.

Equipment Included

Unlike rivals, where you often have to pay thousands for tech packs, Omoda includes nearly everything as standard:

• Large infotainment screen

• 14-speaker Sony sound system

• Heated and ventilated seats

• Panoramic roof

• Full ADAS safety suite

With rivals, these could easily add £5,000–£10,000 in extras.

Resale Value Concerns

The one financial risk is residual value. Audi, BMW, and Mercedes cars hold value well because of brand recognition. Since Omoda is new, resale prices may be lower. However, given the lower entry cost, depreciation is less painful.

Bottom line: If you’re a value-conscious buyer, the Omoda 9 offers more for less, especially if you plan to keep the car long term.

---

Technology & Infotainment System

Tech lovers will feel right at home in the Omoda 9.

Infotainment Experience

The centrepiece is the 15.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen, which runs a slick operating system designed for Western markets. It supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless updates, and even AI-based voice control.

The interface is responsive, with smooth animations and customizable home screens. Unlike some rivals, it doesn’t feel cluttered or laggy.

Head-Up Display & Digital Cluster

The AR head-up display projects navigation directions and speed directly onto the windshield, reducing the need to look down. The 12.3-inch digital driver cluster offers customizable layouts, from minimalist to fully detailed.

Sony Premium Sound System

The 14-speaker Sony system is one of the best in its class, offering crisp highs, deep bass, and an immersive surround experience. For long drives, it’s a huge plus.

Smart Features

• OTA Updates mean the car improves over time without dealer visits.

• AI Assistant understands natural voice commands like “I’m cold” and adjusts climate automatically.

• Ambient Lighting syncs with music for a more immersive atmosphere.

Overall, Omoda 9’s tech package feels ahead of many German rivals, who often charge extra for similar features.

---

Who Should Buy the Omoda 9?

Not every SUV suits every buyer. So, who is the Omoda 9 really for?

Best For:

• Families – With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and quiet EV drive, it’s ideal for family life.

• Tech Enthusiasts – If you love gadgets and futuristic car tech, the Omoda 9 delivers at a bargain price.

• Eco-Conscious Drivers – The long EV range means you can drive electric most of the time, without worrying about charging infrastructure.

• Value Hunters – If you want premium quality without paying premium prices, the Omoda 9 is unmatched.

Not Ideal For:

• Driving Purists – If you care deeply about sporty handling, a BMW X3 or Jaguar F-Pace is a better fit.

• Badge Prestige Buyers – Some people buy cars for the badge. If brand image matters more than features, German rivals still win.

• Resale-Focused Buyers – If you plan to sell within 2–3 years, depreciation could hit harder compared to an Audi or BMW.

So, if you prioritize value, efficiency, and technology over brand image, the Omoda 9 is a strong contender.

---

Final Verdict – Is the Omoda 9 Worth It?

After looking at design, performance, practicality, tech, and cost, one thing is clear: the Omoda 9 offers an unbeatable package for the money.

It’s not perfect. The handling isn’t as sharp as German SUVs, and questions remain about long-term reliability. But when you weigh the affordable price, massive EV range, luxurious cabin, and long list of standard features, it’s hard not to be impressed.

For many buyers, the Omoda 9 represents the smart choice—a premium-feeling SUV at a fraction of the cost. If you’re willing to take a chance on a newer brand, you’ll likely be rewarded with comfort, efficiency, and tech that rival cars simply can’t match without spending far more.

Verdict: The Omoda 9 is a game-changer in the plug-in hybrid SUV market and could seriously shake up the dominance of German brands.