Omoda C9 PHEV (2025) Review
The 1.5T PHEV Explore AWD – the flagship of the Omoda C9 executive SUV range – produces significant outputs, offers a sub-5-second 0–100 kph time, and is said to deliver extremely frugal fuel consumption. David Taylor puts those claims to the test.
We like: Balance of performance and efficiency, dazzling array of features, styling, warranty.
We don’t like: Unproven reliability of complex powertrain, shallow load bay.
FAST FACTS
- Model: Omoda C9 1.5T PHEV Explore AWD
- Price: R999 000 (August 2025)
- Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol + electric assist
- Transmission: Automatic
- Power/Torque: 440 kW/915 Nm
- 0-100 kph: 4.9 sec (claimed)
- Claimed consumption: 1.4 L/100 km (combined), 6.9 L/100 km (with hybrid battery discharged)
- Luggage capacity: 660-1 783 litres
Serious about buying/selling?
Some dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our New Car Specials!
Looking to sell your car? Sell it on Cars.co.za for free
Where does the Omoda C9 PHEV fit in?
Now that Chinese car brands have effectively conquered the lower end of the crossover market, they are keen to make inroads into the premium segments. Omoda is taking on established premium brands with a sharply styled executive SUV that undercuts its rivals on price, specification, and warranty.
The C9’s stylish, progressive design draws favourable comparisons with models from premium brands such as Lexus and Range Rover – remember, the Chery Group produces JLR products in China. Yet it incorporates those cues (or “tips of the hat”, if you will) in distinctive ways. From the matte grey paint finish to the sleek, daytime running lights that double as a distinctive light bar, along with the flush-fitting door handles, the C9 is certainly eye-catching. The faux exhaust tips, however, are an acquired taste…
What else can you get at this price point, especially if you’re considering a plug-in hybrid powertrain? The key rivals for the C9 are the BMW X3 30e xDrive PHEV and Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge PHEV, both of which previously won the Executive SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards. And, although we have yet to drive it, Chery recently launched CSH PHEV variants of the C9’s cousin, the Tiggo 9, in Mzansi.
See also: Chery Tiggo 9 (2025) Price & Specs
How the Omoda C9 PHEV fares in terms of…
Performance & Efficiency
The Omoda C9’s plug-in petrol-electric hybrid system comprises a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that works in conjunction with 3 electric motors. The trio is managed by a 3-speed hybrid transmission, which delivers staggering combined outputs of 440 kW and 915 Nm of torque to all 4 wheels (AWD).
Those headline figures are not just for show. Omoda claims a 0–100 kph time of just 4.9 sec for the C9 PHEV, and we can confirm that it’s accurate. According to our test equipment, the review unit completed the sprint on our test strip in 4.89 sec. This is hot hatchback-rivalling acceleration in a family SUV!
For emissions-free commuting, the C9 has a stated pure-electric range of 150 km, and in our experience, that figure is well within the realms of possibility. What really impresses, however, is its fuel efficiency.
Omoda claims a remarkably low consumption figure of 1.4 litres/100 km for the C9 PHEV, which would give it a total range of over 1 100 km, but that’s based on the WLTP test protocol in ideal efficiency-optimising driving conditions. During its tenure in our fleet, the Omoda achieved a very respectable 5.5 litres/100 km using mostly electric power around town and hybrid mode on freeways and the open road.
Considering the generous pullaway and overtaking acceleration that the C9 PHEV – a medium-sized family car weighing around 2.2 tonnes – offers, it delivers outstanding long-distance economy.
Ride & Handling
Importantly, the C9 PHEV delivers a genuine executive-SUV-like driving experience, complemented by a plush ride that easily copes with South Africa’s wide variety of road conditions. The Omoda has 6 drive modes, but beyond that, the variant’s steering, braking, and suspension settings are all adjustable.
In its default setting, the newcomer’s multifunction wheel feels light and easy to twirl – even a bit vague, to be honest. However, responses to steering inputs sharpen and become notably more direct when you select Sport mode. Similarly, the adaptive dampers can soften the ride to a marshmallow-like comfort in Eco mode, but firm it up for responsiveness in Sport mode. Another feature that highlights Omoda’s attention to detail is the brake feel, which can be toggled between Comfort and Sport settings.
Features & Practicality
Inside the C9 PHEV, the premium experience continues. Omoda hasn’t skimped on luxury features; its interior feels genuinely luxurious.
The cabin is equipped with a high-quality, 12-speaker Sony audio system, a panoramic sunroof that floods the interior with natural light, and plush leather seats that offer both comfort and support.
Build quality is generally good, with soft-touch materials on key touchpoints and premium stitching that contribute to a refined feel. Some glossy plastics attract fingerprints, but the overall fit-and-finish is impressive for the price point, aiding effective noise and vibration suppression.
Front passengers are treated to heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats (as are the occupants seated at the back), and the heated steering wheel is a thoughtful touch for those chilly Highveld mornings.
The infotainment system is housed in a large, single-piece dual-screen unit that stretches across the dashboard. The screens’ displays are crisp, responsive, and offer a clean, modern user interface. Tech features are abundant, including a driver-monitoring dash cam and a convenient head-up display.
Unlike some competitors that bury essential functions within a touchscreen, the C9 PHEV wisely retains physical rotary dials for climate control and driving modes. This simple design choice allows quick adjustments without taking your eyes off the road. The centre console, meanwhile, features a powerful 50W wireless charging pad and a neat, hidden compartment equipped with USB ports.
From a practicality standpoint, the C9 delivers. Thanks to a flat floor, there’s generous foot- and legroom at the back; 3 adults can comfortably sit side-by-side. To make longer trips more pleasant, the seats are adjustable and can recline, while separate climate controls, plus USB-A and USB-C ports are provided.
Even if the load bay is a bit shallow, it is said to hold 660 litres, and when the rear seats are folded down, that capacity expands to 1 783 litres. Note, however, that the C9 PHEV does not come with a spare tyre.
Overall, the Omoda C9 PHEV interior strikes a solid balance between premium materials, user-friendly technology, and family-friendly practicality, delivering a compelling package for its segment.
How much does the Omoda C9 PHEV cost in South Africa?
The Omoda C9 1.5T PHEV Explore AWD costs R999 000 (Aug 2025) and comes with a comprehensive warranty package: a 7-year/200 000 km general warranty, 10-year/200 000 km warranty for specific electric drive unit components, a 10-year/1 million km engine warranty, and a 10-year/unlimited km hybrid battery warranty for the first owner (which reverts to 10 years/200 000 km for subsequent owners).
In addition to this, buyers enjoy a 7-year/100 000 km service plan and 7 years of roadside assistance.
New Omoda C9 Specs & Prices in South Africa
Find a new/used Omoda C9 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Verdict
The Omoda C9 has a single-minded purpose: to challenge premium marques in the new-vehicle market. To that end, it offers a truly exceptional blend of performance, luxury features, and unparalleled value. At a price point of R999 000, the PHEV flagship undercuts its European rivals by a significant margin while offering more features and a stronger powertrain. Let’s not forget the mega after-sales plan either.
Should you buy one? While Omoda’s brand cachet may pale compared to established luxury marques, this is an impressive product given its hardware, features, and performance at the price. You don’t need to spend much over R1 million to own a new executive SUV, and with the arrival of the Chery Tiggo 9 (also available as a PHEV), you now have more than one compelling Chinese contender in this segment.