Omoda 9 Virtue: A New Contender in the Hybrid SUV Market

Omoda, a brand under the Chinese automotive giant Chery, is making waves in the New Zealand market with its innovative approach to hybrid technology. Launched last year, Omoda has already introduced a budget-friendly petrol compact SUV, the C5, and its fully electric counterpart, the E5. Now, the brand is stepping up its game with the Omoda 9 Virtue, a powerful and luxurious plug-in hybrid SUV that promises to redefine expectations in its segment.

Powertrain and Performance

At the heart of the Omoda 9 Virtue is a sophisticated powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a robust 34kWh battery and three electric motors. This configuration delivers a staggering combined output of 395kW, making it the most powerful SUV produced by Chery available in New Zealand. The vehicle boasts a remarkable efficiency rating of just 1.4 liters per 100 km (NEDC), and it can achieve a total driving range of over 1,100 km when combining electric and petrol power.

The Omoda 9 is designed to provide a seamless driving experience. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds, it offers impressive performance, particularly in Sport mode. However, the power output varies depending on the driving mode, with Eco mode delivering around 180kW and Normal mode around 220kW. This flexibility allows drivers to choose between efficiency and performance based on their needs.

Design and Comfort

The Omoda 9 Virtue stands out with its striking design, which has garnered attention for its sharp lines and modern aesthetics. Available in a sophisticated Shadow Grey matte finish, the SUV exudes a sense of luxury that is often reserved for higher-priced competitors. While the C5 and E5 models have a more utilitarian look, the Omoda 9 strikes a balance between elegance and sportiness.

Inside, the cabin is designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. Unlike some of its smaller counterparts, the Omoda 9 features a more restrained layout, with a 12.3-inch infotainment display and physical rotary dials for climate control and drive modes. This thoughtful design enhances usability, allowing drivers to access essential functions without navigating through complex menus.

Driving Experience

While the Omoda 9 Virtue excels in many areas, its driving dynamics present a mixed bag. The SUV is equipped with a floaty suspension that provides a comfortable ride, but it can feel detached during spirited driving. The brakes, while powerful, can be overly grabby at low speeds, making city driving a bit cumbersome. The steering lacks feedback, which may disappoint those looking for a more engaging driving experience.

However, the Omoda 9 compensates for these quirks with its smooth and silent operation, particularly in electric mode. The vehicle automatically switches to hybrid mode when the battery level drops to around 30%, ensuring that drivers can still enjoy electric driving for most of their daily commutes.

Practicality and Space

The Omoda 9 Virtue is designed to accommodate five passengers comfortably, with an emphasis on luxury rather than utility. While it offers a generous boot space of 660 liters, it does not come with a third-row seating option, which may limit its appeal for larger families. However, the spacious interior and high-quality materials create a welcoming environment for both drivers and passengers.

Pricing and Value

With a starting price of $68,990, the Omoda 9 Virtue is positioned as a more affordable alternative to luxury hybrids like the Lexus RX 450h+, which can cost nearly double. This competitive pricing, combined with its impressive technology and performance, makes the Omoda 9 an attractive option for those seeking a high-end SUV without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

The Omoda 9 Virtue is a compelling entry into the hybrid SUV market, offering a unique blend of power, luxury, and advanced technology. While it may have some quirks in driving dynamics, its impressive range, striking design, and competitive pricing make it a noteworthy contender. For those looking for a large, luxurious EV with the capability for long-range travel, the Omoda 9 Virtue is certainly worth considering. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply in search of a stylish and efficient SUV, Omoda’s latest offering is poised to impress.