Omoda C5: Affordable, Feature-Rich, and Ready to Impress
The Omoda C5 has been turning heads in South Africa for over a year, and it's not hard to see why. With its sharp design, generous features, and competitive pricing, it's a compelling package. But Omoda hasn't rested on its laurels. They've expanded the C5 lineup to offer something for everyone, with three distinct engine choices that cater to different needs and budgets.
For the budget-conscious, there's the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering 83kW and starting at a remarkably accessible R329,900. If you're looking for a bit more pep, the 1.5L turbocharged engine, like the one in our Elegance test unit, provides a good balance of performance and efficiency, boasting 115kW and with prices starting at R364,900. And for those who crave a truly sporty driving experience, the range-topping 1.6L turbocharged GT derivative delivers a punchy 145kW, albeit at a higher price point of R589,990.
No matter which engine you choose, the C5's design is a consistent head-turner. Sharp lines, a distinctive diamond-effect grille, and modern LED lighting elements create a visually appealing package. The 18-inch gloss black rims with red brake calipers on our Elegance test unit add a sporty touch, ensuring the C5 stands out from the crowd.
Inside, the C5 continues to impress with its upscale cabin. Dual 10.25-inch displays for the infotainment and driver instrumentation dominate the dashboard, offering a modern and intuitive user experience. The Elegance derivative boasts heated and ventilated leather sports seats – a premium feature rarely found in this segment. Ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a 360° camera system further elevate the cabin's ambience and practicality.
On the road, the 115kW 1.5L turbocharged engine in our Elegance test unit provided ample power for everyday driving, with a smooth and refined CVT gearbox contributing to a comfortable driving experience. During our road trip to Drakensberg, we achieved a respectable fuel consumption figure of around 8L/100km.
The C5's handling is commendable, providing a confident and composed driving experience even on winding roads. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections effectively, ensuring a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. Even on the challenging roads of Drakensberg, the C5 remained composed and comfortable.
Of course, no car is perfect. During our test drive, the adaptive cruise control system unexpectedly disengaged a few times, requiring a system restart to function correctly. This suggests potential software glitches that need to be addressed by Omoda. Furthermore, the long-term reliability and resale value of the C5 remain to be seen, as with any relatively new model in the market. However, the 5-year/150,000km warranty and 5-year/70,000km service plan offer some reassurance to potential buyers.
Overall, the Omoda C5 continues to be a strong contender in the South African market. With its expanded engine lineup, stylish design, comprehensive features, and competitive pricing, it offers something for everyone. While some minor concerns remain, the C5's overall package is hard to ignore. As Omoda continues to establish itself in South Africa, the C5 stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to offering value-driven vehicles that challenge the status quo.
