REVIEW | Why Omoda's C9 SHS plug-in hybrid should top your list
The Omoda C9’s sleek coupe-like profile sets it apart in the premium SUV space.
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The first two models introduced to South Africa under the Omoda nameplate could not be further apart. The C5 feels uninspiring to drive, disconnected and vague. Great value for money, sure, and packed with every bell and whistle imaginable, while also offering so much more car than anything else in its price range. The C9, on the other hand, is refined, smooth, luxurious and well-mannered.
With 192kW and 400Nm being squeezed out of its 2.0l turbopetrol four-cylinder mill, it moves along with some urgency, despite it not being too quick off the mark.
Both the C5 and C9 also seem to suffer from the usual Chinese drawback of an engine, transmission, suspension and steering miscommunication problem – like they're not all working in perfect concert all the time. In the C9, you'll only really notice this under hard acceleration, particularly in sports mode, where the gearbox isn't quite sure which cog to engage.
Hybrid power gives the C9 SHS supercar-rivalling shove in a family SUV package.
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Broadly speaking, it's a problem I've picked up in almost all the Chinese brands, and it's only really noticeable to people who love to drive, those who can tell the difference between a dual-clutch automatic, CVT and torque converter.
We've often joked among the IOL Motoring colleagues that the transmissions feel a little previous-gen, older tech in a holding spot until a more superior system is introduced.
China's hybrid systems are indeed that next step.
The C9 SHS blends the already superb interior feel of the big Omoda with a slightly coupe-like roofline (resembling a Lexus RX at its hindquarters) with an engine and transmission system worthy of taking on zhe Germans in a very meaningful way. I've fawned over the C9 before, saying it is indeed better than the Germans, but the SHS took my admiration for this car to new, exciting levels.
Fast DC charging sets the Omoda C9 SHS apart from most plug-in hybrids.
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For starters, the addition of the battery-powered motors to its 1.5l turbopetrol fires 440kW and 915Nm out of the power mill. It's capable of reaching 100km/h in under 5 seconds – making it quicker and more powerful than a Range Rover Sport P400 (a mild hybrid), which costs almost four times what the C9 SHS will set you back. And unlike other plug-in hybrids, the C9 SHS comes with a DC port for fast-charging. Most other PHEVs only offer AC ports.
In terms of size, it competes with Mercedes GLC, BMW X3 and Volvo XC60, but in terms of finish, fittings, trimmings, spec, and cabin layout, it punches up a weight class. You'll find features and functionality in the cabin that are very similar to what you find in an X5, GLE or XC90. Plus, there's loads more storage space, hidden bins, cubby holes and refrigerated boxes than you'd find in these luxury rivals.
And still, it drastically undercuts its rivals in price. The C9 SHS is the top of the range for Omoda – costing between R990,000 and R990,900. That's less than half the price of a GLE and almost R200,000 cheaper than a generic GLC.
Inside the C9 SHS: luxury finishes, big screens and premium comfort throughout.
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And one would think this value for money would be felt. But no, it's build quality is solid, soft touch materials abound, with seat heating and cooling in the front and back. The back seats also recline further than its rivals, and its panoramic sunroof stretches practically the entire length of the roof. Only Volvo's EX30 offers more visibility out of the roof with its full glass top panel, but in the Swedish car, there isn't a sunshade, and the roof doesn't open.
The C9 SHS also sips fuel; you'll get 1,000km of range from the fuel tank alone, and when you couple that with the battery, the range is extended to 1,150km (but you might get more if you switch to hybrid charging mode for when you're crawling along in traffic). The claimed figure is 6.9l/100km, but I was averaging between 5 and 6 from the 70l tank.
You're getting luxury, size, space, power, dynamic handling, and features that make an Audi blush, with a 540º camera system with a crispness in its display I've rarely seen matched.
You would be wasting your time shopping for anything else in the million-rand mark.
But don't just take my word for it – South African consumers are evangelising through vehicle sales. Omoda/Jaecoo sales surged 147% year on year between 2024 (5,097 units sold) and 2025 (12,597 units). Omoda C9 sales contributed greatly towards that, showing a 229% increase in sales volume between 2024 and 2025.
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