Omoda C7: First drive impressions of the SA-bound hybrid
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What are we driving?
The Omoda C7 is a compact SUV produced by Chery under its export-focused Omoda brand. First unveiled globally in April 2024, it is positioned between the Omoda C5 and the upcoming Omoda C9 in terms of size. Unlike previous Omoda badged offerings, the C7 is the first original product designed specifically for Omoda, whereas earlier models were shared with Chery's main line-up.
The most striking aspect of the C7 is its futuristic design, which was the prevalent theme throughout the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show. At the front, a frameless X-shaped grille and slim LED daytime running lights give it a high-tech, almost concept-like appearance. The sculpted sides, featuring flush door handles and sharp creases, add a touch of premium European flair. At the rear, full-width thunderbolt LED taillamps and a subtle roof spoiler complete the cohesive design. The C7 also rides on 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
Positioned as a sport oriented SUV, the Omoda C7 measures 4 621mm in length, 1 872mm in width, and 1 673mm in height, with a claimed wheelbase of 2 700mm.
Inside, the C7 sets itself apart from more budget-friendly competitors. A 15.6-inch sliding infotainment screen dominates the dashboard, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that provides driver information. The cabin features soft-touch materials throughout, with quilted leather seats, ambient lighting, and refined panel finishes that underline its upmarket ambitions. From the brief time spent inside, Omoda has managed to provide ample space for both rows, offering sufficient headroom and legroom even for taller passengers.
What is the Omoda C7 SHS like to drive?
Unable to legally drive on Chinese roads, we spent a brief period behind the wheel of the Omoda C7, which was fitted with the brand's new plug-in hybrid powertrain. This setup, also found in the recently revealed Jaecoo J7 SHS (tested by CAR), pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an 18.3kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack. Combined, the system delivers an impressive peak output of 255kW and 525Nm of torque. While final specifications for South Africa are yet to be confirmed, we expect the local model to feature this same powertrain. On the road, the system feels well-calibrated and impressively smooth, with EV mode being the standout, offering up to 90km of zero-emission driving.
Related:Review: Jaecoo J7 SHS (PHEV)
From behind the wheel, the C7 offers a composed and comfortable driving experience. The steering is light yet precise, and during a brief slalom test, the vehicle responded confidently with minimal body roll. The weight distribution also appeared well balanced, helping the C7 maintain poise through quick directional changes.
The C7 is expected to launch in South Africa in six months with a full suite of advanced safety features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. Higher-spec models will also offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a premium 14-speaker Sony audio system.
What are the Omoda C7 SHS's Rivals?
The Omoda C7's length (4 621mm) and wheelbase (2 700mm) place it in a similar size category to the popular Toyota RAV4 which is a well-established player in the sphere. Its hybrid powertrain option further cements itself as a chief rival to this newcomer and the C7 will need to compete on price to draw buyers away from the RAV4. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid range in South Africa starts from approximately R705 600 for the 2.0 GX-R AWD model and goes up to around R841 600 for the 2.5 Hybrid VX E-Four.
Another strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment is the Kia Sportage. A frequent contender in the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Buys awards, it has become revered for good value for money and an impressively long warranty, which the Omoda C7 will need to address. The entry-level 1.6 CRDi LX Sportage kicks things off at R662 995, and the top-spec 1.6T-GDi GT Line S model costs R823 995
Keeping it within China's borders, the C7 will likely steal some of the spotlight against the now ageing Haval H6. Despite being a strong contender with a hybrid powertrain which produces a combined output of 179kW and 530Nm of torque, it has still remained a niche choice for buyers shopping for a mainstream SUV. South African pricing for the Haval H6 HEV starts at approximately R679 950. Its competitive pricing for a hybrid SUV with significant power makes it a direct rival to the Omoda C7 PHEV.
What will the Omoda C7 SHS cost?
Simply put; we don't know yet. The vehicle is set to arrive in South Africa, but other than the drive and the technical details shared by Omoda officials, pricing has remained under wraps. We expect that the Chinese automaker is combing the market to determine which price point will make this hybrid model most appealing to local buyers, and we'd expect it to come in anywhere from R700 000 to potentially just over R800 000. Any standard ICE-powered models would logically undercut this.
Verdict
A full road test and more time behind the wheel of the Omoda C7 would have been ideal to uncover finer details that may have been missed during the short drive, but what did stand out, however, is that Omoda C7 may be the most important statement of intent for the Chinese automaker. In typical modern Chinese fashion, it boasts striking looks, a premium-feeling cabin, and the arrival of the efficient hybrid powertrain should make it resonate with many buyers if priced competitively.
Looking for a new or used car? Find it here with CARmag!
The post Review: Omoda C7 SHS appeared first on CAR Magazine.
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