Omoda in the Market Spotlight
In many buyers’ minds, a familiar set of compact crossovers often comes to mind first. Models like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Skoda Kodiaq, Hyundai Tucson, and Mazda CX-5 are traditional choices in this segment. Between those mainstream options and the Omoda, the price niche has recently featured a fresh player from Chery priced from 2.43 million to 2.7 million rubles, offered alongside the showroom model in dealerships.
The central question surrounding Omoda is not simply how it compares to the named crossovers, because those cars are not currently available in a dealer network. This is a challenge in Russia where recall campaigns for the Chery brand, together with Omoda, may fade from the foreground as Chery reorganizes Omoda into a separate brand for new markets. The move mirrors dynamics seen with other automotive duos, where one brand serves as a premium counterpart to the other. Chery itself draws parallels with SEAT and Volkswagen, with Omoda acting in a similar role to the latter in this pairing.
With a Hint of Luxury
Among the advantages of the new product is the strong visual appeal crafted by Chery. The stylistic leadership comes from Steve Hui, a designer with American roots who has brought experience from Ford, Hyundai, and GM to the project. A large, striking grille filled with diamond-like cells makes the Omoda stand out in a crowded parking lot. In profile, the design leans toward the clean, contemporary lines seen in modern Japanese and Korean models. Inside, the impression of a premium car remains strong, with seats inspired by the luxury feel of high-end European models such as the Bentley Continental GT.
The headrests are integrated into the backrests and feature a neck-level cutout reminiscent of race car safety belts, creating a sense of sportiness in the cabin.
The seats offer noticeable lateral support, though the steering column’s limited reach can hinder comfort for some drivers. A wide central tunnel and a prominent door handle create spatial constraints for foot placement. Still, the package targets a compact B-class crossover, and that positioning explains some of the ergonomic choices. Compared with familiar Russian-market models like Hyundai Creta and Renault Kaptur, the Chinese C5 presents a leaner footprint, aiming at a younger, more urban audience with a modest budget.
The cabin emphasizes modern automotive tech aesthetics over sheer practicality. Two 10-inch displays, one for the multimedia system and one for the instrument cluster, form a compact but functional cockpit. The layout avoids overwhelming the eyes, keeping the screens neatly integrated into the dash. Bright, sharp graphics and responsive interfaces contribute to a polished user experience, though the touch responsiveness may not yet rival premium smartphone screens.
The driver environment is well organized, with wireless charging available for smartphones. For USB access, users must reach under the right foot to locate the sockets tucked beneath the floating central tunnel, a deliberate design choice in keeping with Chery’s tradition. The interior remains comfortable for a small adult, with ample space for the rear seat and a trunk that holds three backpacks with ease, even if the volume could stretch to better capacities in some configurations.
How It Is Driving
The front-wheel-drive configuration brings lightness to the vehicle, a trait helpful on typical Russian roads. The powertrain features a 147-horsepower 1.5-liter engine with about 210 Nm of torque, delivering confident acceleration for overtaking trucks and merging traffic. When pushing hard, the engine tends to produce noticeable noise and a quick buildup of power, requiring careful throttle management for smooth progress. The continuously variable transmission does not always meet the claimed fuel economy in real-world conditions, with highway and mixed driving often averaging around nine liters per hundred depending on speed and conditions.
The steering offers a balanced feel, and the stability system responds reliably to driver input. On loose surfaces, the ESP acts promptly to help prevent slip, providing reassurance in variable road conditions. A caveat remains: the range of active safety features can feel heavy-handed at times, prompting some drivers to prefer a more hands-on approach. The manufacturer has acknowledged this and plans to refine the software so that owners can tailor the level of electronic assistance to personal preference.
Overall, the Omoda C5 embodies a fresh generation from the Chinese automaker, combining a hatchback-like handling with SUV practicality. It rides on 18-inch wheels with a futuristic aesthetic, and the price point is positioned to be competitive with mainstream compact crossovers. Whether the value justifies the cost in a market where many buyers look for familiarity and established aftersales networks remains a topic for potential buyers to weigh. The C5 represents a bold attempt to blend style, tech, and pricing in a way that resonates with a younger, urban audience looking for a modern daily drive.