Locked-in for South Africa: Omoda unwraps sharp, futuristic C3
All-new Omoda C3 premiered in Shanghai this week ahead of its South African arrival in 2026. Image: Omoda
One of several surprise unveilings at the Shanghai International Motor Show this past week, Omoda removed the wraps from the all-new C3 that will make its South African market debut in 2026.
Dramatic styling
An export-only model as per the Omoda brand not being marketed in China, the C3, or Omoda 3 in some markets, will be positioned below the C5 and C7 as not only Omoda's entry-level model, but one the brand says targets so-called Gen Z customers.
Incorporating a sharper version of the Art in Motion styling language, the C3 takes several cues from the Lamborghini Urus and Ferrari Purosangue when viewed from the front and side, while the rear has a squared-off look similar to sister brand Jaecoo's J7.
Omoda 3 debuts as brand's new compact crossover positioned below the Omoda 5. The sporty model will launch globally in October.https://t.co/BCP39Y0T66 — Paul Tan's Automotive News (@paultan) April 26, 2025
Depicted in Shanghai, but strangely not in the official press material, the interior, which The Citizen has nonetheless still seen, the interior sports a radically different look than the C5 by featuring a minimalist design, a freestanding instrument cluster, slim centre console and a portrait-style infotainment system of unknown size.
ALSO READ: Omoda C5 range adjusted again to include new X Series pair
Reportedly designed with gaming enthusiasts in-mind, with Omoda describing the cabin as 'starship cockpit', the setup also includes the push-button start being similar to the Urus, while the steering wheel is new and thus with no connections to the C5 or C9.
More later
Set to formally launch in October before being exported, technical and dimensional details weren't disclosed, however, speculation point to the availability of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and possibly also full electric powertrain options.
Despite still being a ways off, don't be surprised if details pertaining the former does emerge over the coming months before it goes into production.
Additional information from paultan.org.
NOW READ: South Africa-bound Omoda C7 PHEV details emerge abroad
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