Chery OMODA 5 SUV To Be Launched In Malaysia

The Chery OMODA 5 is the latest of SUVs from China to be confirmed for a launch in Malaysia. The first unit rolled off the assembly line at Chery’s manufacturing headquarters in Wuhu, China, last week. It is slated for sale in China in the first half of 2022 before expanding to other markets such as Europe, South Africa, Australia and Malaysia. The OMODA 5 will be in the very competitive B-segment. Sitting on a 2,630 mm wheelbase is a vehicle that is 4,400 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,585 mm tall.

The OMODA 5 is the first product from its Chery 4.0 generation, and is part of Chery’s new global product series to capture a wider market. Chery Chairman, Yin Tongyue, said in his speech that the project team, led by project manager and assistant to the company’s general manager, Dr Xu Youzhong, delivered a great achievement as operations resumed after the Chinese New Year break.

OMODA 5 is an important model for the company as it is the company’s first global model developed based on international demand, and a key product for entry into the European Union and right-hand drive markets. According to Gao Xinhua, executive deputy general manager of the company, the OMODA 5 had been in extensive development for 18 months to satisfy global standards and requirements. Years ago, the Chery brand had presence in Malaysia with the likes of the Tiggo SUV, Eastar MPV, A5 sedan and QQ hatchback.

It is reported that the Chery OMODA 5 will first be fitted with an ACTECO 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine with 197 PS and 290 Nm of torque. This is one of the engines from its Kunpeng Power family which also includes hybrid and hydrogen powertrains. Future options could include a 1.5L hybrid.

The OMODA 5 was designed to primarily appeal to younger buyers in the 25 – 30 years age group. As such, it can be expected to be laden with trendy digital tech and connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.