The Omoda 5 SHS-H, a new hybrid SUV from Chery’s Omoda&Jaecoo brands, made its road-test debut in Carmignano, a hillside town in Tuscany’s Montalbano hills. Tenuta di Artimino, a 16th-century Medici villa now part of the Melià Collection, provided a backdrop of rolling vineyards and historic stonework.
A hybrid without the plug
The Omoda 5 SHS-H operates as a full hybrid, eliminating the need for external charging. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, running on the Miller cycle, works with two electric motors to deliver a combined 224 horsepower. The setup reaches a thermal efficiency of 44.5%, surpassing the segment average of 39%.
One motor powers the wheels, while the other functions as a generator. A 1.8 kWh battery avoids the bulk and charging stops typical of plug-in models. Fuel economy stands at 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers, with a range over 900 kilometers on a full tank.
During testing, the SUV accelerated smoothly up to 60 km/h using electric power alone, supported by 295 Newton-meters of torque. Switching between electric and gasoline modes happened without noticeable interruption, though the system favors efficiency over quick response. Front-wheel drive and independent suspension ensure a comfortable ride, though handling remains unremarkable.
Design and tech inside and out
The Omoda 5 spans 4.45 meters in length, with a 2.61-meter wheelbase. Its exterior combines sharp angles and flowing curves, a hallmark of the brand’s styling. Inside, the cabin adopts digital minimalism, featuring two 12.3-inch displays on the dashboard. Standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Related: Trump slaps up to 100% duties on drones
Two trim levels exist: Pure and Premium. The base model comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the higher tier adds 18-inch wheels, ventilated and heated front seats in eco-leather, a Sony audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a 540-degree camera. Pricing begins at €28,500 for the Pure and €31,500 for the Premium, with occasional discounts available. Both include a seven-year, 150,000-kilometer warranty, which extends to eight years and 160,000 kilometers for high-voltage parts.
The hybrid’s compact battery and absence of a charging port offer convenience for drivers seeking lower emissions without plugging in. Performance on hilly terrain like Carmignano’s roads may test the SUV’s modest power, particularly on steep inclines.
The Omoda 5 SHS-H occupies a niche between conventional SUVs and plug-in hybrids. Its appeal will depend on whether buyers prioritize simplicity over the potential savings of electric vehicles.
An unusually long warranty may reassure buyers concerned about reliability. Yet the SUV faces competition not only from other hybrids but also from affordable electric models that promise even lower costs for those willing to charge regularly.
Leave a Reply