Chery C5

Model Overview

The Chery C5 is a core compact SUV in Chery's global offensive, essentially known to Chinese domestic buyers as the Omoda 5. Leveraging a flexible multi-badging strategy across global markets, Chery markets this model under different nameplates depending on the region. For instance, in Australia, the UAE, and Russia, it is sold directly under the Chery parent brand as the Chery C5; similarly, in Indonesia, following the phase-out of the standalone Omoda sub-brand, it is also badged as the Chery C5. In selected European countries and Chile, it is marketed as the Omoda C5; in Malaysia, it is badged as the Chery O5 to avoid naming confusion; while in Thailand, it retains the familiar Omoda 5 moniker, with a facelift slated for introduction in 2025.

As a versatile player in Chery's globalisation drive, the Chery C5 is tailored to meet diverse market demands. The official retail price for the 2025/2026 model ranges from AUD 29,990 to AUD 34,990 (drive-away) in Australia, 2,279,900 to 3,169,900 Rubles (approx. RM167,000 - RM233,000) in Russia, and IDR 319.9 million to IDR 349.9 million (approx. RM83,000 - RM91,000) in Indonesia.

Design Language

The Chery C5 showcases the brand's latest "Art in Motion" design philosophy, sporting an avant-garde and dynamic aesthetic. Up front, the unmistakable diamond-cut matrix grille integrates seamlessly with the sharp split LED headlights on either side. The facelifted model introduces a more aggressive X-shaped front bumper and arrow-style LED daytime running lights (DRLs), while doing away with select exterior red accents for a bolder, more mature stance. Along the sides, sleek character lines and a sloping fastback roofline pair with flush door handles to deliver a striking coupe-SUV profile, with higher-spec variants sporting red brake calipers for an added sporty flair. At the rear, full-width LED taillights and a sporty bumper complete the stylish, contemporary design.

Inside, the cabin features a driver-centric, wrap-around layout. The centrepiece is a dual-screen cockpit comprising twin 10.25-inch high-definition displays—officially dubbed the "24.6-inch Universal Nebula Immersive Surround Screen"—which elevates the cabin's high-tech ambience. Material quality is commendable, with generous soft-touch padding throughout, complemented by a touch-sensitive air-conditioning control panel and an electronic gear selector, delivering a premium tactile feel that edges out many mainstream joint-venture rivals in its class.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Chery C5 offers diverse powertrain options tailored to different market requirements:

Mainstream Variant (1.5T + 6DCT): Powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 108 kW (approx. 147 hp) and 210 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) driving the front wheels. Compared to the previous CVT, the DCT delivers snappier gear shifts and a more direct power delivery, offering a more engaging drive. Indonesian market figures indicate a 0-100 km/h sprint time of roughly 9.5 seconds.
High-Performance Variant (1.6T + 7DCT): In select markets such as Russia, the C5 is offered with a higher-output 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine pushing out 197 hp (approx. 147 kW) and 290 Nm of torque. This unit is paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations to cater to drivers seeking stronger performance and enhanced traction.
Hybrid Variant: In markets like Indonesia, Chery has introduced the C5 CSH, which pairs a 1.5TGDI engine with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) system. Delivering a total system output of 204 hp and an overall range exceeding 1,000 km, it provides an efficient alternative for buyers prioritising exceptional fuel economy.

Chassis and Handling

Chassis refinement is a key highlight of the 2025 Chery C5 update. The entire range now features an upgraded multi-link independent rear suspension in place of the previous torsion beam setup—a hardware enhancement that directly elevates ride comfort and dynamic handling. The multi-link setup effectively suppresses body roll and absorbs road imperfections, yielding a more composed and refined ride. Steering is managed by an electric power steering (EPS) system that is light and effortless to manoeuvre. An Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold comes standard across the range, alongside front ventilated disc and rear solid disc brakes for dependable stopping power.

Cabin and Features

Digital sophistication defines the Chery C5's interior. The standard dual 10.25-inch high-definition screen setup seamlessly combines the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, keeping tech-savvy drivers effortlessly connected. Higher-spec variants add a host of premium amenities, including an 8-speaker Sony sound system, a 360-degree surround-view camera, a 50W wireless smartphone charger, heated leatherette seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a powered tailgate—specifications on par with vehicles from a segment above.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a standout attribute for the Chery C5, having earned five-star safety ratings from both ANCAP and Euro NCAP. Built on a high-strength cage body structure, the SUV comes standard with seven airbags (including dual front, side, curtain, and a front-centre airbag) to ensure all-round passive protection for occupants.

On the active safety front, the C5 is equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard features include over 14 ADAS functions such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), significantly mitigating risks during daily commutes.

Market Performance and Reception

The Chery C5 has achieved commendable success across global markets. In Australia, Chery delivered 1,837 units of the Omoda 5 (the C5's predecessor) by the end of April 2025, establishing it as the brand's second best-selling model locally. In Chile, the Omoda C5 stood as Chery's key volume driver as of November 2024. Going head-to-head against established B-segment and compact SUV rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, MG ZS, and GWM Haval Jolion, the C5 stands out with its globalised design, solid build quality, extensive standard kit, and competitive pricing, successfully showcasing the compelling value proposition of modern Chinese automotive engineering. While its nameplate may vary across borders, the vehicle's core essence—a high-quality, high-value global SUV developed by Chery—remains uncompromised.