Due in SA soon: Omoda’s C5 SHS hybrid promises punchy performance and big range
The Omoda C5 SHS will reach local showrooms in March 2026.
Image: Supplied
In a month from now, Omoda will unleash its most affordable hybrid model in South Africa.
Set to launch in March, the C5 SHS features parent company Chery’s Super Hybrid System, which allows the electric motor to do most of the driving work.
Unlike Chery’s own Tiggo Cross Hybrid, which competes in the same class, the Omoda hybrid’s 1.5-litre petrol engine is turbocharged, allowing for combined outputs of 165kW and 310Nm.
That should result in nippy performance, with Omoda claiming a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.9 seconds.
However, the arguably bigger drawcard is fuel consumption. To that end, the carmaker claims a combined figure of 5.3 litres per 100km, translating into a potential range of more than 1,000km.
This is a self-charging hybrid rather than a plug-in, but that will help to keep pricing in check as the regular hybrid system pairs with a small LFP battery with a capacity of 1.83 kWh.
Power goes to the front wheels via Chery’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission.
Pricing is not confirmed as yet, but you can expect it to be on the upper end of the current ICE C5’s bookends of R339,900 and R465,900.
A feature-packed cabin is a given.
Image: Supplied
Specifications will be generous, with features including a 12.3-inch dual-screen infotainment system with eight speakers, black leather upholstery, a power-operated tailgate, a sunroof, and 20 driver assistance systems, including Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
The Omoda C5 is currently the most popular model in the Omoda & Jaecoo line-up and was South Africa’s 12th-best-selling vehicle in January 2026, with 907 units sold. Omoda sold a total of 1,413 vehicles last month, making it the 13th best-selling carmaker.
It currently also sells the Omoda C7 (from R539,900), C9 (from R785,900), as well as Jaecoo’s J5 (R339,900) and J7 (R519,900).
IOL Motoring