New Models / 8 July 2026 / Warren Hawkins

New GWM Ora 5 arrives in South Africa – Pricing and features

GWM in South Africa has announced the arrival of the all-new Ora 5 compact SUV, with three powertrains and six total derivatives.

The Chinese auto giant managed this versatility through its GWM ONE platform, which can accommodate multiple propulsion technologies within a single vehicle architecture.

“By offering three powertrains at launch, we are giving South African motorists genuine choice within a highly competitive compact SUV segment,” said Floyd Ramabulana, head of Marketing at GWM South Africa.

“The Ora 5 combines modern design, advanced technology and everyday practicality in a package that we believe will resonate strongly with local customers.”

Features

As expected, the Ora 5 shares the rounded design language seen in the Ora 03 hatchback, only upscaled into a crossover stance.

It features signature Ora round LED daytime running headlights with welcome lighting effects, as well as roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels fitted as standard.

The compact SUV measures 4,471mm long and 1,833mm wide, with a 2,720mm wheelbase, enabling a mid-size cabin and a good deal of practical cargo space.

Inside, the cabin features synthetic leather seats, including a 6-way electrically adjustable driver seat, a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, and an optional panoramic glass roof.

The driver can expect a 10.25-inch digital cluster alongside a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth hands-free calling, voice control, six speakers, and front- and back-row USB Type-C charging.

The entire range features automatic air conditioning, including in the second row, while multi-colour rhythmic ambient lighting is reserved for the more upmarket models.

Safety features fitted to all Ora 5 derivatives comprise active driver assistance systems, six standard airbags across the range and ISOFIX child seat restraints.

Other standard driver convenience and safety features include tyre pressure monitoring, reverse radar parking sensors, 360-degree panoramic view and cruise control.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are also equipped on all upmarket trimlines.

Three distinct powertrains

Ora 5 buyers can choose from three powertrains – an internal combustion engine (ICE), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) derivatives, and fully electric (BEV) models.

In its ICE guise, the crossover is fitted with a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 105kW and 210Nm and mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission to drive the front wheels.

The HEV models are also powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine alongside a high-output single electric motor, combining for 164kW and 476Nm.

This powertrain is paired with a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), which continuously balances the petrol engine and electric motor.

Depending on driving conditions, the system automatically switches between electric drive, hybrid drive, engine drive, or regenerative braking.

BEV models are powered by a single front-mounted permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor that produces 150kW and 260Nm.

Energy is supplied by a 58.3kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides an NEDC driving range of up to 520km on a single charge, or 440km on the WLTP cycle.