Chery Omoda 5 EV 2025 – Budget Electric SUV From China

The electric vehicle market in Australia has been steadily expanding, with brands like Tesla, BYD, MG, and Hyundai dominating headlines. Now, a new competitor from China has entered the field: the Chery Omoda 5 EV 2025. This budget-friendly electric SUV is aimed at buyers who want the benefits of EV ownership—lower running costs, futuristic technology, and reduced emissions—without stretching their budget to premium European brands.

As the first all-electric model from Chery to land in Australia, the Omoda 5 EV is more than just a new release—it’s a statement of intent from one of China’s fastest-growing automakers. Packed with technology, respectable driving range, and competitive pricing, it’s targeting a market that is hungry for affordable yet practical EV options.

Chery’s Comeback Story in Australia

Chery isn’t an unfamiliar name to Australians. The brand first entered the market over a decade ago, offering budget-friendly petrol cars. However, its early models struggled with quality issues, poor safety ratings, and limited dealer support, which ultimately led to its withdrawal.

Fast forward to today, and Chery is making a serious comeback. With significant investment in design, engineering, and electrification, the company is determined to shed its old image. The Omoda 5 EV 2025 represents the bold new face of Chery, bringing contemporary styling, advanced safety tech, and the promise of long-term reliability.

This time, the strategy is clear: compete directly with rivals like the MG ZS EV, BYD Atto 3, and Hyundai Kona Electric, all of which have proven popular with Australian EV buyers.

Exterior Design: Futuristic and Eye-Catching

One of the first things buyers notice about the Chery Omoda 5 EV is its striking design. Unlike many budget cars that play it safe, the Omoda embraces bold styling with sharp lines, a dramatic grille-less front end, and futuristic LED lighting.

Highlights include:

• Closed EV front fascia with aerodynamic efficiency.

• Slim daytime running lights and wide headlight clusters integrated into the bumper.

• Coupe-inspired SUV profile, giving it a sportier stance compared to traditional boxy SUVs.

• 18–19 inch alloy wheels (depending on trim) with aerodynamic design patterns.

• Two-tone paint options, appealing to younger buyers.

Chery clearly wants the Omoda 5 EV to stand out in traffic, and compared to rivals like the MG ZS EV (which looks more conventional), it succeeds in looking futuristic without appearing over-designed.

Interior Design: Comfort Meets High-Tech

Step inside, and the Omoda 5 EV’s cabin reflects its modern ambitions. While it positions itself as a budget SUV, Chery hasn’t cut corners on technology and finish.

Key interior features include:

• Dual-screen setup with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and 12.3-inch digital driver’s display.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto integration.

• Soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels, giving it a more premium feel.

• Ambient lighting system with multiple colour themes.

• Spacious rear seats and flat floor, thanks to its EV architecture.

• Decent boot space (around 350–400L), suitable for families and city trips.

Chery has focused on delivering an interior that feels modern and well-equipped, rivalling more established brands in this price bracket.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the bonnet—or rather, beneath the floor—the Omoda 5 EV packs a front-mounted electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack. While full Australian specifications may vary, global versions of the Omoda 5 EV 2025 are expected to include:

• Power Output: Around 150 kW (approx. 200 hp).

• Torque: 340 Nm, providing brisk acceleration.

• 0–100 km/h: Around 7–8 seconds, which is competitive for a budget EV SUV.

• Top Speed: Electronically limited to around 170 km/h.

This performance places it squarely between the BYD Atto 3 and MG ZS EV, making it an appealing choice for those who want a balance of efficiency and fun driving dynamics.

Driving Range and Charging

One of the most critical factors for EV buyers is range and charging capability. The Chery Omoda 5 EV offers competitive figures for its class.

• Battery Size: Expected between 61–65 kWh (varies by market).

• Range: Approximately 430–450 km (WLTP cycle).

• Charging:

  • AC Charging: Up to 11 kW (7–8 hours for full charge on home wall box).

  • DC Fast Charging: Up to 100–150 kW (30–35 minutes from 20–80%).

For most Australian buyers, this means the Omoda 5 EV can comfortably handle daily commutes, weekend trips, and occasional long-distance drives with charging stops.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety has historically been a weakness for Chery, but the brand is determined to change perceptions. The Omoda 5 EV comes with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.

Standard safety features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist

• Blind-Spot Monitoring

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

• 360-degree camera for parking ease

• Driver Attention Monitoring

Chery is actively working to secure a 5-star ANCAP rating for the Omoda 5 EV, which would boost buyer confidence significantly.

Technology and Infotainment

Beyond safety, Chery is keen to impress tech-savvy buyers. The Omoda 5 EV’s infotainment system is loaded with features:

• Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring the system evolves over time.

• Voice recognition controls for navigation, climate, and media.

• Advanced sound system with multiple speakers for immersive audio.

• Customisable digital displays for driving information.

These features bring the Omoda 5 EV in line with competitors like Tesla and BYD, while keeping the overall price tag accessible.

Pricing and Value in Australia

Perhaps the most important aspect of the Omoda 5 EV is its pricing strategy. While official Australian prices may not yet be finalised, industry expectations place the SUV in the range of:

• $45,000 – $55,000 drive-away (depending on trim and incentives).

This places it below many mainstream EVs such as the Hyundai Kona Electric ($60k+) and well within striking distance of budget leaders like the MG ZS EV ($42k+) and BYD Atto 3 ($48k+).

Combined with Chery’s generous warranty (expected to be 7 years/unlimited km), the Omoda 5 EV has strong potential to attract budget-conscious EV buyers in Australia.

Competitor Comparison

The affordable EV SUV segment in Australia is heating up. Let’s see where the Omoda 5 EV stands:

• MG ZS EV: Cheaper entry price, but shorter range and less tech.

• BYD Atto 3: Slightly higher price, but strong brand momentum and established aftersales network.

• Hyundai Kona Electric: More expensive, but with proven reliability and refinement.

• Tesla Model Y (entry-level): Significantly higher price, but larger, with better charging infrastructure support.

The Omoda 5 EV positions itself as a middle-ground option—better equipped and longer-ranged than the MG ZS EV, but priced below the Kona and Tesla.

Maintenance and Ownership

EVs generally require less maintenance than petrol or diesel cars, and the Omoda 5 EV follows that trend. With fewer moving parts, buyers can expect lower servicing costs over time. Chery is also expected to roll out a national dealer and service network, ensuring buyers won’t face issues with support—something that hurt the brand in the past.

Owners can also expect:

• Lower fuel costs thanks to EV charging versus petrol refills.

• Eligibility for state EV rebates and incentives (depending on location).

• Access to expanding charging infrastructure, especially in urban areas.

Is the Chery Omoda 5 EV Right for You?

The Chery Omoda 5 EV 2025 isn’t just another new model—it represents a turning point for budget EV adoption in Australia. If you’re looking for:

• An affordable entry into EV ownership

• Modern design and tech features

• Practical range and fast charging

• Competitive safety and warranty package

…then the Omoda 5 EV deserves serious consideration.

Of course, buyers should weigh it against rivals like the BYD Atto 3 and MG ZS EV, but the Chery has the potential to carve out a niche as a value-packed, stylish, and future-ready electric SUV.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer in the Budget EV Market

The 2025 Chery Omoda 5 EV signals a new chapter for both Chery and the Australian EV market. With bold design, impressive features, and affordability at its core, it challenges the notion that electric vehicles are only for premium buyers.

For Australian drivers, this SUV offers a genuine alternative to mainstream players, and if Chery can deliver on quality, aftersales support, and long-term reliability, the Omoda 5 EV could very well become a top contender in the budget EV SUV category.