By Staff Reporter

OMODA South Africa has added a new model to its local line-up, the C7. Positioned between the C5 X Series and the larger C9, the newcomer aims to offer a balance of technology, practicality and contemporary styling.

Design and exterior

The C7’s design follows OMODA’s bold styling direction, featuring an X-shaped frameless grille, slim LED headlights and red-painted brake calipers. The body lines are clean and sculpted, while the stance is enhanced by 19-inch wheels on the petrol version and 20-inch alloys on the plug-in hybrid.

Powertrains and eficiency

Two engine options are available. The petrol derivative uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 145 kW and 290 Nm, linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. OMODA claims an average fuel consumption of 7.5 L/100 km.

The SHS plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbo engine with an electric motor for a total output of 255 kW and 525 Nm. The hybrid can travel up to 105 km on electric power alone and up to 1,200 km in total range. The 18.4 kWh battery supports 40 kW fast charging, taking it from 30 to 80 percent in around 20 minutes. Claimed combined consumption is 5.0 L/100 km.

Inside the cabin

The interior focuses on space and technology. With a 2,720 mm wheelbase, there is enough legroom for passengers, while the boot measures 614 litres in the petrol version and 537 litres in the hybrid. Both can tow up to 1,250 kg.

Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and dual-zone climate control. A 15.6-inch infotainment screen and an 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster handle most functions, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SHS adds a 12-speaker Sony audio system, compared to eight speakers in the petrol variant.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Up to 21 driver-assistance features are available, such as a 540-degree camera system, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Automatic Emergency Braking. The C7 is also fitted with multiple airbags, ABS, Brake Assist and stability control.

Pricing and Warranty

The C7 range is priced as follows:

• C7 1.6 TGDI Luxury – R539,900

• C7 1.6 TGDI Elegance – R589,900

• C7 SHS Plug-in Hybrid – R689,900

The SUV goes on sale from 11 November 2025 and includes OMODA’s one-million kilometre or 10-year engine warranty for the first owner. Additional coverage includes a five-year or 75,000 km service plan, a five-year or 150,000 km factory warranty for the petrol models, and a seven-year or 200,000 km warranty for the SHS. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years with no mileage limit.

In a statement, Hans Greyling, General Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa, said the C7 continues the brand’s aim to offer vehicles that combine technology and practicality for local drivers.