OmodaOmoda 5

The Omoda 5 (from £24,040) is the entry-level version of the Omoda Omoda 5, a petrol SUV. It offers 147 hp and 0–62 mph in 10.1 s.

The Omoda 5 Petrol is the cheapest way into Chery's design-led crossover brand. Its coupé-style roofline, diamond-pattern grille and flush, body-coloured door handles help it stand out among small SUVs. The UK range has two trims: Knight at £24,040 and Noble at £27,540.

Engine and economy

Power comes from a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 147 PS and 275 Nm, driving the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Omoda quotes CO2 emissions of 168 g/km, which means a high first-year VED charge. Auto Express has criticised the economy, putting it at around 34.5 mpg. The 51-litre fuel tank therefore gives a modest real-world range, and buyers who care about running costs should look at the SHS-H hybrid.

Performance and driving

The sprint from 0–62 mph takes 10.1 seconds and top speed is 121 mph, the highest in the Omoda 5 range. There are Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes, and the Petrol is the only version that can have red brake calipers. Knight models ride on 18-inch alloys, while Noble models get 19-inch wheels.

Interior and space

The car is 4,373 mm long and the boot holds 380 litres, 10 litres more than the hybrid and electric versions. Folding the 60/40 rear seats increases this to as much as 1,915 litres. The updated cabin moves the gear selector onto a stalk on the steering column, which frees up space in the centre console. Synthetic leather sports seats are standard, and the Noble adds heated and ventilated front seats as well as a heated steering wheel.

Technology and safety

A pair of curved 12.3-inch screens handle the instruments and infotainment, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is also a cooled 50 W wireless charging pad. The Noble upgrades the audio to an eight-speaker Sony system and adds a power sunroof. Standard safety kit includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise, emergency lane keeping, rear cross-traffic alert and eight airbags. Euro NCAP gave the Omoda 5 five stars.

Who is it for?

The Petrol suits buyers who want plenty of equipment and a seven-year warranty for a small-hatchback budget. It also suits those who do mostly short trips, where poor economy costs less. Rivals include the MG ZS, Jaecoo 5 and Nissan Juke.