What Is This?
The Malaysian automotive landscape has witnessed a paradigm shift with the introduction of several new players, some of which have ‘taken the market by storm’. Two of the new brands stamping their mark here are Omoda and Jaecoo. The initial confusion regarding their branding—Omoda and Jaecoo being international market brands under Chery International—is a minor hurdle that is quickly overcome by the sheer presence and value proposition these brands bring. So going forward, you can expect to see future Omoda models displayed alongside Jaecoo models in the same showroom.
The Omoda C9 (also referred to as Omoda 9) launched by Jaecoo Malaysia, is positioned as a premium D-segment coupé SUV but at a price that challenges conventional notions of premium offerings, with features typically reserved for higher-priced models.
The Omoda C9 asserts itself with a bold, refined design language that reflects both luxury and utility. Its aerodynamic silhouette, crafted according to the Golden Ratio, strikes an ideal balance between visual appeal and performance efficiency. Despite its sizeable presence, the C9 achieves an impressively low drag coefficient of just 0.326, which helps enhance efficiency and stability.
The coupé-style roofline adds a sense of motion to the side profile, while distinctive design elements such as the diamond matrix front grille and Sigma (∑)-shaped LED daytime running lights inject a touch of stylistic flair. The front is also fitted with intelligent adaptive LED headlights which adjust automatically for optimal visibility, while the rear is defined by full-width LED tail lights and quad exhaust outlets that lend a sporty finish.
Physically, the Omoda C9 measures 4,775 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and stands 1,671 mm tall. Its 2,800 mm wheelbase also translates to a roomier cabin space, while its 165 mm ground clearance and capability to wade through water up to 450 mm deep give it serious versatility for off-road excursions, or for tackling the exclusive collection of rain during monsoon season. I presume the C9 will rarely see an off-road trail, but flooded roads… that could be a common sight. Further supporting its “rugged” credentials are its respective approach and departure angles of 20.6º and 19.2º, which are great for tackling the challenging parking ramps that are designed by sadistic interns. 
Other thoughtful exterior details include flushed, retractable door handles to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, and keyless entry (via access card) with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Walk-away locking adds to daily convenience (it will also automatically close all windows and the sunroof), while acoustic windshields and door mirrors ensure a quieter, more refined cabin environment.
Practicality is not compromised either, with the C9 sporting a sizable 660 litres of boot space, which expands to an even more cavernous 1,783 litres when the rear seats are folded. Access to the cargo area is also made effortless courtesy of an automatic tailgate with proximity sensing, allowing for hands-free operation.
What Is Inside?
Within the cabin, the centrepiece is the expansive 24.6″ dual screen setup which combines a digital instrument cluster with an infotainment display. The interface is intuitive and responsive. The user-friendliness factor is high once you familiarise yourself with the interface, with convenient features such as voice command for key functions, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. The system also has over-the-air (OTA) update capability to keep functions current without dealer visits.
The cabin of the Omoda C9 is designed to provide a luxurious and spacious environment for all occupants. With generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, the vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 adults. The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, with ‘winged’ headrests (except for driver and rear middle seats) that can be adjusted for added side support. The seats have heating and ventilation functions, with the driver’s seat enjoying memory and welcome functions. The rear passengers also benefit from electrically adjustable backrests, B-pillar air vents, and USB Type-C charging ports.
Cabin refinement is further elevated by the use of soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors, acoustic glass on the windshield and front windows, and active noise cancellation for a quiet, serene ride. The centre console features a floating-style design with ample storage, wireless charging pad, and dual cup holders, while the armrest storage houses a chiller.
Audio duties are handled by a premium 14-speaker Sony sound system. The sound system includes speakers embedded in the driver’s headrest for a truly immersive listening experience, or to separately manage music or phone calls. Thoughtful touches such as ambient lighting with multiple colour settings, a panoramic sunroof, electric door release, and (in the AWD variant only) a cabin fragrance system, round out the comfort-focused offering. Furthermore, if you own one of the recent models from a premium continental brand, the switchgear layout in the C9 will be very familiar, thus cutting down on familiarisation.
What Makes It Go?
Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0L turbocharged inline 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine delivering 257 hp (261 PS) and 400 Nm of torque that promises a lively and responsive driving experience. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and while it isn’t overtly sporty, the powertrain appears well-suited for both brisk overtaking and relaxed cruising.
The AWD variant comes with 7 drive modes – Eco, Normal, Sports, Sand, Mud, Off-road, and Snow (the 2WD variant has only the first 3 drive modes) to further enhance its appeal by offering drivers a tailored experience for various conditions.
How Does It Feel?
The driving dynamics of the Omoda C9 AWD can be characterized by a blend of comfort, confidence, and responsiveness. The suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear, forms a solid foundation for its ride quality. However, the true game-changer here is the Continuous Damping Control (CDC) real-time adaptive suspension system. This magnetically controlled suspension setup continuously adjusts damping forces to absorb road imperfections and ensure a smooth and balanced ride, whether it’s rural roads or pothole-ridden city streets. In real life though, there are occasions where reaction to road imperfections in the city feel delayed, though on the highway it does help make the C9 feel more stable and balanced. The decision to wrap Michelin Primacy tyres on its 20″ multi-blade alloy wheels also help with competent road holding and noise mitigation.
Moreover, the braking system offers the flexibility of adjusting brake pitch sensitivity and brake force sensation, allowing you to finetune the brake feel to your preference for a more pleasant driving experience. This is yet again another feature not commonly found, especially in this price range. Additionally, the 540-degree camera view helps you navigate tight spots, and is a welcome feature since there is no auto park function.
The steering is fairly responsive, relatively speaking, when you set steering force to Sport, and this helps make the C9 feel more nimble than its size suggests; as nimble as an SUV weighing over 1,800 kg can feel. The head-up display is also helpful with drive information, keeping your eyes on the road. This is complemented by a rather intelligent voice recognition that lets you control a host of vehicle functions without taking your eyes or hands off of driving.
For added safety, there is the advanced ADAS suite that helps mitigate potential driving hazards. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Integrated Cruise Assist and Traffic Jam Assist, Multiple Collision Braking and Door Opening Warning. And there are 8 airbags, and a vehicle body 85% of which is built from high strength steel for incidents beyond your control. What I found annoying though was the Driver Monitoring System which acted too much like a hawkeyed school prefect. It’s perfectly fine if you are constantly looking straight ahead, but I unfortunately have a habit of always checking all the mirrors.
What Is There To Like?
Launched with a retail price of RM188,800 (the 2WD variant is cheaper at RM168,800) the Omoda C9 AWD is a model that fits Jaecoo Malaysia’s mildly disruptive strategy of providing “attainable luxury” to a broader market.
By offering a comprehensive package of impressive specifications, luxurious appointments, and a refined and advanced interior, the C9 sets a new benchmark for value in the sub-200k range. Packaged with a standard 7-year (or 150,000 km) vehicle warranty, the Omoda C9 challenges the belief that luxury and advanced features must come at a premium price and becomes a compelling choice for buyers looking for a D-segment vehicle. 