GT variant joins Chery Omoda 5 line-up

PLATFORM sharing has allowed Chery to transplant the Tiggo 7 SUV’s 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol powertrain into its small crossover, creating what it calls the Chery Omoda GT – arriving now with the MY24 Omoda 5 range.

Compared to the lesser model with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine rated at 115kW/230N, the GT represents a decent step up in the go department to 137kW/275Nm available in front- and all-wheel drive.

There is more than an engine transplant as under-the-skin changes have been wrought in line with the power and torque upgrade starting with a multi-link rear suspension (in place of beam axle) and other suspension upgrades for ride and handling gains and the adoption of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, again lifted from the Tiggo 7 for performance and economy benefits.

That’s the end of it though, as Chery says no other dynamic upgrades come with the GT spec’ in terms of braking, chassis stiffening, steering or tyres all of which are carried over from the 1.5 Omoda 5.

Priced from $38,990 drive-away for the front-wheel drive and $41,490 drive away for the all-wheel drive, the newcomer has plenty of competition from small hatch backs and SUVs the likes of Kia Cerato GT from $36,860, Hyundai i30 N-Line from $36,000, Hyundai’s new Kona N-line AWD from $40,000 and even the old Suzuki Vitara AWD turbo from $40,490, all excluding on-road costs.

Chery says efficiency is at the heart of the Omoda 5 GT, with fuel use of a claimed 6.8 litres per 100km (FWD) and 7.4L/100km (AWD), and CO2 of 162g/km (FWD) 176g /km (AWD) on the ADR Combined cycle.

It is well equipped with a full array of electronic gadgetry as well as a glass roof, piano black fascia, large dual control screens and a chunky, D-cut sports steering wheel with sports seats.

New features for MY24 include digital radio, frameless rear-view mirror with auto dimming function and a more powerful 50W wireless device charger. The GT model will also feature GT badging on the boot lid.

A range of smart technologies include “cutting edge” infotainment systems, connectivity options comprising of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Chery’s innovative “Hello Chery” voice control system.

Chery has addressed the widely criticised and hypersensitive Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) in the Omoda 5 with a localised calibration that can be retro fitted and is standard on the GT (and presumably all other Chery models).

The GT is similar in appearance to the lower grade models featuring a tapered profile, large mesh grille and sharp highlight lines to the bodywork culminating in an edgy rear look with bright lights.

Red highlights pick out various body parts and the wheels giving the model has a “boy racer” flavour that may appeal to some buyer groups.

The Omoda 5 scores a five-star ANCAP rating with all that brings in terms of ADAS, primary and secondary safety equipment.

Chery Australia has sold some 5000 Omoda 5s in around 12 months and says the model’s success is down to a combination of “cutting-edge technology with a sleek and modern design, offering drivers an unparalleled driving experience.”

“The MY24 Omoda 5 represents another step forward for the Chery brand in Australia, offering consumers more performance and choice, whilst maintaining the focus on value for money and Chery’s dedication to outstanding customer service” said Chery Australia managing director Lucas Harris.

2024 Chery Omoda 5 pricing*:

*National drive-away price.