The OMODA C5, one of South Africa’s compact crossovers, is better than ever, thanks to a bold new update called the C5 X Series. This update brings improvements across the board, from a more refined driving experience to greater practicality.
Its latest iteration builds on the C5’s success while offering even more to customers who demand style and substance at an affordable price.
At first glance, the striking front fascia is redesigned, giving the C5 a sportier and upscaled look. The diamond matrix grille, a striking part of the C5’s styling, is more polished and sophisticated.
The lower elements of the bumper are revised for a cleaner and modernised look. Similarly, the headlights are restyled, while the daytime running lamps are sculpted for a more dynamic look. Overall, the C5 is brought closer to the C9, which was launched in South Africa in November 2024.
OMODA went further, enhancing the package with sportier, black-painted alloy wheels for a more dynamic presence.
Alongside the refreshed design elements, a new dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is now standard in the C5 X Series. The smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox is paired with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It produces 115 kW and 230 Nm of torque for a more responsive and efficient driving experience.
These enhancements improve performance. It reduces the 0-100 km/h time by 0.9 seconds to a swift nine seconds. Efficiency is also improved, with fuel consumption now rated at 6.9L/100 km—an improvement over the outgoing Elegance and Lux’s consumption of 7.4L/100 km.
The mechanical revisions extend beyond acceleration and efficiency. The previous torsion beam rear suspension is replaced with a multilink setup. This delivers improved ride comfort and sharper handling. This elevates the driving experience, offering greater luxury and dynamic control.
OMODA engineers further improved the dynamics of the C5 X Series. The brake pedal is adjusted for a more responsive and engaging feedback. Additionally, improved cornering stability ensures the updated crossover delivers a more confident and enjoyable ride in all conditions.
The drive mode selector now includes an additional mode, giving drivers more options. There are now three modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
Inside, the C5 benefits from more luxurious soft-touch materials for the driver and front passenger door trim. Additionally, the 15-watt wireless charger is replaced with a 50-watt charger with a ventilation system.
The most impressive revision, however, is the increased boot space. The space behind the rear seats also increases from an already generous 378 to 442 litres. With the rear row folded flat, the C5 has 1 149 litres of cargo. This is 74 more litres than the outgoing model.
General Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa, Hans Greyling, commented: “With the latest updates to the C5 lineup, we’ve not only enhanced performance and efficiency but also introduced key refinements that elevate the driving experience.
“From the introduction of the smooth-shifting dual-clutch transmission to the adoption of multilink rear suspension, every improvement is made with comfort and responsiveness in mind. What’s more, we’ve managed to offer these advancements at a more accessible price point, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional value without compromise,” added Greyling.
OMODA continues to deliver exceptional value in the compact crossover segment with the introduction of the new C5 Lux X and Elegance X. Alongside a host of enhancements, both models now arrive with more accessible pricing. The Lux X is available at R425 900. Alternatively, the Elegance X comes in at R465 900—both more affordable than before.
The existing Street and Style derivatives will remain in the lineup. This ensures a wide range of options for customers seeking both value and performance.
Despite the price drop, all C5 models receive OMODA’s five-year/150,000 km warranty, five-year/70,000 km service plan, and the industry-leading ten-year/one-million km engine warranty as part of the standard price.
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