Omoda has a lot in store for South Africa over the next few months with the upcoming release of three different cars.
One of these models is the C7, which is shaping up to be the most advanced set of wheels to emerge from the Chinese automaker thus far.
The C7 will be a new mid-range option in Omoda’s local catalogue, slotting in between the existing C5 and C9.
Despite this, the C7 is technically Omoda’s flagship vehicle as it is an original product from the carmaker, whereas the C9 is actually a rebadged model borrowed from another Chery brand – Exeed.
With that in mind, it’s hardly surprising to see that the C7 is equipped with all of the manufacturer’s latest tech, starting with its powertrain.
The company has yet to provide a full breakdown of the different engines and trim levels heading our way, but TopAuto was given a preview of the vehicle on a recent trip to China.
What to expect
At a media event in Chery’s hometown of Wuhu, we were shown the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the C7, which goes by the designation SHS.
SHS stands for “Super Hybrid System” and is the naming convention you’ll see on all of Omoda and Jaecoo’s PHEV models going forward.
This iteration of the crossover uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which works in tandem with an electric motor to produce 255kW and 525Nm.
It also features an 18.3kWh battery that affords an all-electric driving range of 90km.
The C7’s equipment sheet is also rather impressive, touting all of the carmaker’s latest driver assistance features.
This includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, intelligent speed limit control, lane-keep and lane-change assist, door opening warning, blind-spot detection, forward cross-traffic alert, a 540-degree camera, and an autonomous parking assistant that can account for 80 different parking scenarios.
Inside, you’ll find a leather multifunction steering wheel, a small digital driver display, dual wireless charging pads, a 12-speaker stereo, and ventilated and heated seats with massage capabilities and integrated speakers.
There’s also a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen with the ability to slide across the dashboard to position itself in front of the passenger seat.
The reason the screen can slide is because the C7 comes with onboard video games that you can play using wireless Omoda controllers similar to what you’ll see from major electronics companies like Sony or Microsoft.
On top of all of this, the crossover features a sleek futurist design with a hexagonal grille, LED headlights, integrated daytime running lights, semi-flush door handles, and taillamps shaped like a lighting bolt.
More information about the Omoda C7, such as its pricing, will be announced closer to its South African launch date in the second half of 2025.
Omoda C7 in Wuhu, China
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