Sprint Review: 2023 Omoda C5 230T Luxury

This Sprint Review is going to be a bit different because it aims to answer all the questions I’ve had about the new Chery Omoda…

“Should I buy one?” If you fall into one of the following categories, yes: early adopter, above-average risk taker, open to new experiences. With the greatest respect to Chery’s Omoda brand, which is no doubt doing its utmost to ensure a pleasant new ownership experience, things may go wrong. And when they do, you need to be prepared for it.

“Will it be reliable?” I have no idea, because we only drive each car for a few days. If you’re really interested (or concerned) your best bet would be to chat with existing owners. You could ask the dealership but they will obviously try to paint a rosy picture. You could also check online forums or groups, but people tend to go there to complain…

“Should I not buy one?” If we can liken cars to smartphones, this Omoda C5 is like a medium-level Huawei or Xoami when they first hit the market. Good looking with excellent specs at a rather tempting price. And I’m sure that tech reviewers were a bit hesitant to recommend them over Apple, Samsung and company…

“So maybe I should buy one?” In a perfect world, where cars never break (even the trusty ones) you most certainly should. And just to give the vehicle itself some screen time, the highlights are a 1.5L turbo-petrol CVT with front-wheel drive, 6.9L/100km from the 51L tank and plenty of modern features which will cost you double at the established brands.

“Would you buy one?” Not yet. Because I’ve always been a medium to low-risk person, I would wait one generation before signing on Omoda’s dotted line. This usually ensures that most niggles and potential teething troubles have been sorted out; also with their dealer / service network.

So if you’re really in two minds about buying this car, I suggest the following… Get yourself a new Toyota or demo Volksie now but put your name down for the next Omoda C5!


FULL SPEC LIST

Engine:1,498cc in-line 4-cylinder turbo-petrol
Transmission:CVT, FWD
Max. Power:115kW @ 5,500rpm
Max. Torque:230Nm @ 1,750rpm
Avg. cons.:(claimed 6.9L/100km)
0-100km/h:8.98 seconds (no claim)
Top Speed:No claim
List Price:R477,900 (Lux model)

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