IMPRESSIVE BUILD AT A LOW PRICE – OMODA E5 REVIEW

Electric vehicles have long been criticized for their high prices, but recent trends suggest a shift towards more affordable options.

Enter the Omoda E5, a compelling new addition to the market that offers significant value for its price point. This electric SUV, from the Chinese brand Omoda—better known globally as Chery—marks a notable entry into the New Zealand EV market.

Starting at $47,990 for the BX model and $54,990 for the EX version, the E5 undercuts both MG and BYD options, and while it is bested by the retail specials currently offered by Opel, with a 61kWh battery it offers a clear value advantage.

DESIGN AND EXTERIOR

The Omoda E5 is a restyled electric version of the C5 petrol car, positioned as a compact SUV similar to models like the BYD ATTO 3 and MG ZS EV. At the front, the traditional grille is replaced with a sleek, modern design that houses a prominent Omoda badge and a camera. The charging port is located behind the front badge – and springs open with surprising ferocity – featuring a CCS Type 2 port capable of 9.9 kW AC and 80 kW DC fast charging. The vehicle sits on 18-inch alloy wheels

– 17 inch on the BX – with plastic aero covers and is equipped with high-quality Kumho tires, which provide good traction and performance. Black wing mirrors with integrated cameras enhance the vehicle’s sleek appearance, while keyless entry and tinted windows add to its convenience and style.

INTERIOR AND FEATURES

Inside, the Omoda E5 impresses with its high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The EX model boasts soft synthetic leather, intricate stitching, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Although some hard plastics are present, they are strategically placed away from primary touchpoints. The interior includes an eight-speaker Sony audio system, dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, and a wireless charger with cooling capabilities.

The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated, and ventilated, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passenger.

The back seat is significantly tighter in legroom compared to competitors like the ATTO 3 and MG ZS. The dark rear panels can make the space feel a bit enclosed. Despite these minor drawbacks, the interior space is well-utilized, with a sizable boot that includes a full-size spare tire — a rare feature in the EV market.

PERFORMANCE AND DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The Omoda E5 features a 61 kWh LFP battery, offering a WLTP range of approximately 430 kilometers. In real-world conditions, we think the actual range is in the mid-300km band. The vehicle’s front-wheel drive setup delivers 150 kW of power and 314 Nm of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of around seven seconds.

This performance gives the E5 a responsive, almost sporty feel, akin to a hot hatch rather than a traditional SUV.

On the road, the Omoda E5 handles pretty well. Its steering is light yet precise. There is some torque steer and wheel spin in damp conditions, an issue faced by early MG ZS

before the company reduced torque levels. The suspension is firm but not overly so, maintaining a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. However, some road noise is noticeable, likely due to the grippy Kumho tires. Despite this, the overall driving experience is enjoyable, with minimal body roll and a sturdy, well-built feel.

TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY

The car is equipped with comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a driver awareness monitor. The 360-degree camera system is particularly noteworthy, providing clear, crisp visuals and useful guidelines for parking and maneuvering. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and user experience.

While the driver awareness monitor can be overly sensitive, this feature is a requirement for achieving a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The system occasionally issues alerts for minor movements, such as adjusting the radio or reaching for items, which can be somewhat intrusive.

VALUE AND CONCLUSION

One of the most compelling aspects of the Omoda E5 is its price. The entry-level BX model starts at $47,990, significantly undercutting rivals like the MG ZS EV and BYD ATTO 3. The higher-spec EX model, with additional features and a slightly larger battery, is priced at $54,990.

These competitive prices make the Omoda E5 an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable, feature-rich electric SUV.

The Omoda E5 offers excellent value with its impressive range, high-quality interior, and robust performance. While it has a few minor quirks, such as the slightly dark rear seat and sensitive driver awareness monitor, these are outweighed by its strengths.