OMODA C5 vs OMODA C9 – Which OMODA SUV is Right for You?
OMODA is turning heads in South Africa, and for good reason. Two of their most exciting SUV offerings, the OMODA C5 and the OMODA C9, show exactly why the brand is gaining traction. They’re smartly packaged, tech-forward, competitively priced, and unmistakably modern. While both SUVs share the same badge, the C5 and C9 are designed with different drivers in mind. So, the question is: which one is right for you?
The OMODA C5 is a compact SUV with an urban-centric design. It’s sleek, sporty, and ideal for first-time SUV buyers or those wanting something stylish without sacrificing fuel efficiency or affordability. The OMODA C9, on the other hand, steps into mid-size SUV territory. With a more commanding presence and higher-end luxury features, it’s geared towards families, road trippers, or buyers looking to upgrade in comfort and performance.
In this breakdown, we’re putting the OMODA C5 vs. OMODA C9 in a head-to-head faceoff to help you decide which of these 5-seater SUVs is built for your lifestyle.
OMODA C5 vs OMODA C9 Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the C5 derivatives feature a 1.5T turbocharged petrol engine that delivers around 115 kW and 230 Nm, paired with a CVT. It’s quick off the mark and efficient, making it perfect for both city commutes and weekend getaways. An even more affordable version of the C5 crossover, called the Street, produces 83 kW and 138 Nm with a 1.5-liter normally aspirated engine.
The C9 turns up the dial with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, offering around 193 kW and 400 Nm, a significant leap in output. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers refined power and plenty of overtaking confidence on the highway. All-wheel drive is also available in higher trim levels, adding versatility for various driving conditions.
OMODA C5 vs OMODA C9 Interior and Comfort
Inside the C5, you’ll find a futuristic, minimalist cabin with dual digital displays, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and surprisingly premium materials for its price. Space-wise, the 5-seater is ideal for professionals and young families, with a smartly laid-out interior and decent boot capacity for everyday use.
On the other hand, C9’s cabin takes luxury up a notch. You get Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable and ventilated seats, a larger infotainment screen, and advanced voice control. Its longer wheelbase means more rear legroom and cargo capacity, perfect for families or anyone needing more space and comfort on longer trips.
OMODA C5 vs OMODA C9
Exterior Styling
Both models carry OMODA’s signature futuristic aesthetic, but they wear it in different ways. The C5 is bold and youthful, with a sloping coupe-style roofline, sharp LED lighting, and a floating roof effect that gives it a strong visual personality in compact form. It’s edgy, athletic, and aimed squarely at style-conscious urbanites.
Meanwhile, the C9 adopts a broader, more commanding presence. A larger grille, upright stance, and pronounced body lines give it a more mature, confident appeal — still stylish, but with the added gravitas of a higher-end SUV. It’s the kind of design that feels right at home in both the suburbs and the executive parking lot.
OMODA C5 vs OMODA C9 Safety and Driver Assistance Features
When it comes to safety, both models punch well above their weight. Despite being the smaller sibling, the C5 has a five-star EURO NCAP rating. It comes equipped with essential ADAS features, such as lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control in upper trims, along with six airbags as standard. It offers a strong sense of peace of mind for both daily driving and family errands.
The C9, however, takes things a step further. With Level 2+ semi-autonomous capabilities available, it includes extras such as a 540-degree camera system, traffic jam assist, remote parking, and a comprehensive suite of intelligent safety features. It’s engineered for high-tech convenience and reduced driver fatigue on longer hauls.
Key Specs Comparison at a Glance
Here’s a quick OMODA C5 vs. C9 side-by-side comparison to highlight the most essential differences between the two:
| Feature | OMODA C5 | OMODA C9 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L/1.5L Turbo | 2.0L Turbo |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Power | 83kW/115 kW @5,500 rpm | 192 kW @5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 138kW/230 Nm@1,750 – 4,000 rpm | 400 Nm @1,750 – 4,000 |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9L/100km, 7.3L/100km | 8.2L/100km, 8.5L/100km |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51L | 65L |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, tyre pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning*, emergency braking*, blind spot detection*, lane keeping*, and rear cross-traffic alert*. | 9 airbags, auto emergency braking, 540-degree camera system, integrated cruise assist, rear cross traffic alert, rear cross traffic brake, lane departure warning, lane change assist, lane departure prevention, emergency lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, traffic congestion assist, door opening collision warning, driver fatigue monitoring, intelligent avoidance system |
| Length | 4,400mm | 4,775mm |
| Width | 1,830mm | 1,920mm |
| Height | 1,590mm | 1,671mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,630 mm | 2,800mm |
| Ground Clearance | 145mm | 165mm/167mm |
| Cargo Capacity | 442L | 660L |
| Price | From R329,900 | From R785,900 |
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between OMODA C5 and C9 depends entirely on your lifestyle and your priorities. If you’re after something sleek, efficient, and packed with smart features for daily driving, the C5 is a fantastic fit. It’s ideal for urban explorers, young professionals, or anyone who wants a compact SUV that’s anything but basic. Go for the OMODA C9 if your priorities include space, performance, premium finishes, and next-level features. It’s the logical step up for growing families or anyone who wants a flagship experience without paying flagship-brand prices.
Both models are available to view and test drive at our Group1 Chery dealerships in Kuils River and Stellenbosch.
