Omoda has launched its C5 X Series in South Africa, sporting improvements to the design, practicality and driving experience.
This is essentially a facelift that has not been applied to the entire range, with the new Lux X and Elegance X replacing the previous Lux and Elegance models, but they do come at a significant price saving.
The new C5 Lux X is priced at R425,900, which is R52,000 less than its predecessor, while the Elegance X, at R465,900, represents a saving of R42,000.
At the lower end of the range, the existing C5 1.5 Street and 1.5T Style continue as before, priced at R329,000 and R364,900 respectively.
The C5 X ushers in a new frontal design that’s likely to be less controversial than the large, sweeping borderless grille seen on the original C5.
It sports a black diamond matrix grille that takes inspiration from the C9, while the headlights and lower bumper have also been redesigned. Rounding off the design changes are newly styled black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels.
Under the bonnet the familiar 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine continues to do service, with outputs remaining at 115kW and 230Nm.
However the previous CVT gearbox makes way for a new six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which is said to shave 0.9 seconds off the 0-100km/h acceleration time, while also reducing the claimed fuel consumption figure from 7.4 litres per 100km to 6.9 l/100km.
Furthermore, the previous torsion beam rear suspension has been replaced by a more sophisticated multi-link set-up, which aims to achieve a better balance between ride and handling. Other aspects, such as the brake pedal feedback, have also been recalibrated for a more engaging feel.
The C5’s new design improves boot space from 378 to 442 litres, while the cockpit area features more soft-touch materials and the 15-watt wireless phone charger has been replaced with a 50-watt unit.
Both models ship standard with a sunroof, powered tailgate, leather seat upholstery, 10.25-inch driver information screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, among other items.
A five-year or 70,000km service plan is part of the deal too, along with a five-year/150,000km warranty, and engine coverage of 10-years/1 million kilometres for the first owner.
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