• The OMODA C5 has recorded 16,948 local sales since launching in April 2023.
• Over the past 13 months, OMODA has kept the range fresh with the C5 X Series, updated Street+ and Style X derivatives, and the new C5 SHS hybrid.
• The new C5 SHS broadens the range with one of SA’s most accessible hybrid SUV offerings, with early demand reflected in the first allocation already being fully accounted for.

The OMODA C5 continues to draw strong interest from South African buyers, with the compact crossover having recorded 16,948 local sales since its introduction in April 2023.

The milestone underlines the C5’s continued relevance in one of the country’s most competitive vehicle segments, where buyers are increasingly seeking strong value, distinctive styling, modern technology, and efficient performance.

Its momentum has been supported by a series of updates introduced over the past 13 months, during which OMODA & JAECOO South Africa has expanded and refined the C5 line-up with the C5 X Series, the updated Street+ entry-level derivative, and, most recently, the new C5 SHS hybrid.

Brand OJ’s latest addition has already made a strong impression. Following its launch in April, the first allocation of C5 SHS hybrids has been fully accounted for, pointing to strong early interest in one of South Africa’s most affordable compact hybrid SUVs.

The C5 SHS combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver total system outputs of 165 kW and 295 N.m of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, while returning a WLTP-rated fuel consumption figure of 4.9L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 111 g/km. With its 51-litre fuel tank and hybrid system, the C5 SHS is capable of travelling more than 1,000 km on a single tank.

It also brings a high level of standard specification, including dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera, advanced driver assistance systems, and seven airbags.

“The C5’s performance over the past three years reflects more than strong initial interest. It shows the value of continuing to improve a product throughout its lifecycle,” says Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for iCAUR South Africa and OMODA & JAECOO South Africa. “The updates introduced over the past 13 months, together with the early response to the C5 SHS, show that customers are responding to a range that keeps evolving while remaining strongly positioned on value.”

Strong early interest in the C5 SHS builds on a broader programme of updates that has kept the C5 range fresh in a segment bustling with competition. These changes have brought meaningful improvements across the line-up, including refreshed styling, new dual-clutch transmission options, improved fuel efficiency, revised suspension, enhanced practicality, and higher specification levels.

The result is a C5 range that has continued to mature since its local introduction, while remaining firmly positioned around value and accessibility. With an expanded line-up that now includes updated petrol derivatives and the new SHS hybrid, the C5 offers South African buyers more choice than at any point since its launch in 2023. That continued evolution has helped the model remain one of OMODA’s strongest performers locally, more than three years after its local debut.

OMODA C5 pricing

The OMODA C9 serves as the flagship SUV in the brand’s South African lineup. Offered in Inspire 2WD and Explore AWD derivatives, the C9 represents the most premium expression of the OMODA range, combining elevated specification, advanced technology, and refined design within a larger SUV package.

Exterior design

OMODA’s range-topping C9 SUV is revolutionising the luxury SUV segment with sophisticated premium features at an accessible price point. A standout feature of any premium vehicle is its styling, and the C9 excels in this area. Embracing the Golden Ratio principle, the C9 showcases a well-proportioned silhouette.

Built on the principles of the Golden Ratio, the C9 boasts a perfectly balanced silhouette that seamlessly blends elegance with dynamic appeal. Its dramatic coupé-inspired roofline is refined and eye-catching, ensuring it turns heads wherever it goes. Attention to detail sets the C9 apart, with striking daytime running lights featuring 134 individual LED elements and a borderless grille adorned with intricate diamond motifs, giving the front fascia a commanding presence. Flush-fitting door handles further enhance the vehicle’s sleek, minimalist design.

The Inspire 2WD and Explore AWD trims are standard with 20-inch wheels, second-row privacy glass, and a panoramic sunroof, while the Explore AWD receives red-painted brake callipers.

Performance and efficiency

Both OMODA C9 trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 192 kW and 400 Nm of torque and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2WD (Inspire) and AWD (Explore) variants offer slight efficiency differences. The Inspire has a WLTP-estimated fuel consumption of 8.2L/100 km, while the Explore is rated at 8.5L/100 km.

With a 65-litre fuel tank, the Inspire can travel up to 793 km on a single tank, while the Explore offers a range of 765 km. The 2WD variant’s CO2 emissions are 190 g/km, while the AWD variants are 197 g/km. The Inspire’s ground clearance is 167 mm, and the Explore’s is 165 mm.

The C9 features a MacPherson front suspension and a multi-link rear setup, paired with disc brakes at both ends for reliable stopping power in all conditions. The Explore AWD also benefits from Continuous Damping Control and a chassis protection guard for enhanced performance and durability, while both the Explore AWD and SHS variants offer Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand and Off-Road drive modes.

Practicality

The OMODA C9 offers two rows of seating for up to five occupants. Behind the second row, the boot provides a generous 660 litres of storage space. When the 60/40 split-folding seats are stowed, this expands to an impressive 1,783 litres of cargo room. Additional storage is available under the armrest, and a refrigerated/heated box ensures drinks are kept at the ideal temperature, hot or cold, depending on the occupants’ preferences.

With a wheelbase of 2,800 mm the C9 offers ample legroom in both the front and rear rows, ensuring a comfortable ride for all. Rear passengers enjoy exceptional comfort, with heated seats and power-operated backrest adjustments for the second row.

Standard features

The C9 Inspire and Explore trims come well-equipped with many standard features. The Inspire trim includes black leather upholstery and electric adjustment for the heated and ventilated front seats. The driver also benefits from a memory function and electrically adjustable lumbar support. A heated Nappa leather steering wheel adds to the luxury. Additional features include LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, a 540-degree camera, a head-up display, and more, ensuring a premium experience. Push-button start and remote keyless start are also standard on both models.

Upgrading to the Explore trim gives you everything the Inspire offers, plus additional features such as two-tone black and brown Nappa leather and integrated speakers in the driver’s headrest.

Technology

The C9 features dual 12.3-inch displays: one serves as the driver’s display, showing key vehicle and trip information, while the centre console screen manages vehicle settings and the feature-rich infotainment system.

This includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. An eight-speaker Sony sound system delivers premium audio, complemented by a multi-colour intelligent ambient lighting system. The Explore AWD trim upgrades to a 12-speaker system and a three-scent fragrance dispenser.

Additional tech includes a wireless charging pad and the Intelligent Voice Command system, which allows occupants to interact with the vehicle by simply saying, “Hello, OMODA. ” This enables hands-free control of various functions.

Safety

Both C9 derivatives are packed full of the latest safety features. Some of the standard driver assist systems include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Lane Change Assist (LCA)
• Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
• Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA)
• Traffic Congestion Assist (TCA)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Driver Fatigue Monitoring

Additionally, the C9 ships standard with front dual airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag, and a bolster airbag. A speed limit reminder and ISOFIX attachments are also fitted as standard.

Service and warranty

The C9 Inspire 2WD and Explore AWD come standard with an industry-leading one-million km/10-year engine warranty (exclusive to the first owner), a seven-year/150,000 km factory warranty, and a seven-year/100,000 km service plan—all included in the purchase price.

OMODA Gears Up for the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026 with an Electrifying Entertainment Lineup

The countdown to one of South Africa’s most glamorous and anticipated events, the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026, is officially underway.

Makubenjalo, in partnership with Martell and OMODA, has set the stage for an unforgettable Hollywoodbets Durban July experience with the announcement of an exciting entertainment lineup during a lavish launch event in Soweto this past weekend.

Returning to Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, 4 July 2026, Njalos promises an elevated celebration of luxury, culture and contemporary South African lifestyle. More than just an event, Njalos brings together music, fashion and high-energy entertainment to create one of the must-visit experiences of Durban July weekend.

A Star-Studded Entertainment Lineup

This year’s entertainment programme features a dynamic roster of some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.

Amapiano sensation Kabza De Small, hip-hop heavyweight Kwesta and electrifying DJ DJ Sox will lead the charge, alongside Uncool MC, DJ Bongz, Leehleza, Vetkoek vs Mahoota, DJ Stokie and DJ Amanda.

Adding to the experience, legendary South African group Boom Shaka will also take to the Njalos stage. With their pivotal contribution to South African music, their appearance promises to take guests on a memorable musical journey from the arrival of the first guests through to the late-night festivities.

OMODA Brings Style and Experience to Durban July

For OMODA, the partnership represents an opportunity to connect with customers beyond the traditional showroom experience and immerse them in a celebration that reflects the brand’s personality.

“Durban July is a celebration of style, culture and individuality, which speaks directly to the spirit of the OMODA brand. Last year’s marquee allowed us to connect with our customers in a way that went far beyond the showroom. It was about giving them an experience they would remember. This year, we are taking that same spirit and elevating it even further.”

— Lungelo Zwane, Marketing Specialist for OMODA and JAECOO

Music, Fashion and the South African Lifestyle

The entertainment programme has been carefully curated to capture the vibrant spirit, energy and evolution of Makubenjalo.

Guests can expect an eclectic mix of amapiano, house, hip-hop and timeless crowd favourites, creating an immersive atmosphere that reflects the unique Njalos experience and the dynamic South African lifestyle.

The event will also welcome an array of top-tier celebrities, influencers and media personalities, further cementing Njalos as one of the most anticipated social and cultural gatherings on South Africa’s calendar.

With its spectacular combination of music, fashion, luxury and lifestyle, Njalos is set to be one of the standout experiences of the Hollywoodbets Durban July weekend.

Event Information

With an unforgettable entertainment lineup and a celebration of South African culture, Njalos is gearing up to make Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026 a weekend to remember.

JAECOO has officially announced their entry into South Africa, making it one of the very first countries in the world to welcome the newly established urban off-road SUV brand.

JAECOO made its global debut at Auto Shanghai 2023 in China as recently as April, when it was announced as an independent brand with a focus on urban off-road SUVs and a fitting brand slogan of “From Classic, Beyond Classic”.

The brand’s no-compromises driving solution is called All Road Drive Intelligent System (ARDIS), which offers seven unique driving modes, each optimising the vehicle’s dynamics, power delivery and other aspects for specific driving scenarios. Each mode delivers a unique experience that brings out the best in the SUV for that chosen condition.

Technical advancements such as these were brought to life by JAECOO’s team of highly skilled specialists, such as chief engineer Peter John Matkin, who brought vast experience from his time at a leading British brand. It’s a similar case in the design department, where individuals such as chief designer Chris Rhoades applied extensive styling knowledge from years at top European manufacturers.

JAECOO will launch with the J7 in early 2024. Positioned as a mid-sized SUV, the J7 boasts as many as seven drive modes and comfortably seats five adults in a luxurious cabin that also features a 14.8-inch vertically positioned touchscreen.

The J7 and other upcoming JAECOO products will be sold through and supported by a dedicated network of OMODA&JAECOO dealerships, with 30 already established across South Africa.

“Earlier this year, South Africa was the first country on the African continent to offer the OMODA brand and our nation is now among the first in the world to welcome JAECOO. We have big plans for JAECOO, including the expansion of our dealer network to approximately 50 by the end of 2024,” said Tony Liu, Executive Deputy General Manager for OMODA&JAECOO.

“At JAECOO, we’re setting new standards for sports utility vehicles, crafting models that can excel both as luxury on-road SUVs and as capable off-roaders. Our elegant SUVs are as comfortable transporting you to your desk in the city as they are taking you to the dunes in the desert,” added Liu. “They will thus appeal to a strong, fearless person in work who is equally adventurous at leisure.”

To lead this new urban off-road SUV space, JAECOO offers two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive performance, innovative designs, remarkable safety features and forward-thinking intelligent technologies.

The JAECOO name is inspired by a fusion of the German word “jäger” (meaning “hunter”) and the English term “cool”, capturing two elements central to the brand’s philosophy: outdoor adventure and urbanism.

JAECOO, the newly established urban off-road SUV marque and second brand from OMODA&JAECOO, is launching its first model, the highly sophisticated J7 in South Africa in early 2024. Endowed with fearless, farseeing elegance and conceived for urban elites with exquisite taste and extraordinary style, JAECOO perfectly embodies the slogan “From Classic, Beyond Classic”.

Committed to crafting urban SUVs, JAECOO persistently centres its approach around the user. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and novel ecological experiences, the brand continually reshapes the relationship between people and vehicles. It brings innovative products and services to the modern urban elite, building on the foundation of the classic SUV’s reliable qualities. In particular, JAECOO relentlessly pursues breakthroughs, especially in terms of dynamic performance and technological innovation, transcending the classics and delivering a sense of the future and technology to a broader consumer base.

JAECOO made its global debut at Auto Shanghai 2023 in China as recently as April, when it was announced as an independent brand with a focus on urban off-road SUVs and a fitting brand slogan of “From Classic, Beyond Classic”.

“At JAECOO, we are tirelessly dedicated to making breakthroughs in the automotive space and the upcoming J7 will be South Africa’s first taste of the future of intelligent mobility when it arrives early next year,” said Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for OMODA&JAECOO.

“Tougher than typical urban SUVs but more comfortable than traditional off-roaders, the J7 is poised to start a new urban off-roading trend among local buyers. Add a raft of remarkable safety features, forward-thinking technologies and chic design – all courtesy of master design teams assembled from countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany – and you’ll find the J7 is like no other,” explains Gahagan.

The JAECOO J7’s standard powertrain provides ample power and torque to conquer a variety of surfaces. Just as the refined J7’s on-road credentials speak for themselves, so too do the newcomer’s off-road capabilities. Endowed with JAECOO’s proprietary ARDIS intelligent off-roading system, the multi-talented SUV boasts as many as 7 drive modes, allowing it to adapt to a wide variety of terrains.

The J7’s distinctive exterior styling is a mix of classic aesthetics and cutting-edge design, including a matrix-style grille, slim LED headlights and elegant flush door handles. Thanks to the J7’s master design, the sleekly styled urban off-road SUV is equipped with a minimalistic yet luxurious interior, including a vast 24.6-inch screen.

“While our product rollout in South Africa will commence with the eagerly anticipated J7 early in 2024, there’s plenty more to come from the brand. Later next year, for instance, JAECOO will also launch the new, larger J8 – which was revealed in Qatar as recently as October – packed full of more segment-redefining features, from an ultra-smart curved infotainment screen to row-specific climate control,” said Gahagan

In the interim, South Africans can look forward to meeting the J7, which is poised to challenge local consumers’ traditional perceptions of off-roading. Furthermore, the J7 PHEV is set to be introduced in Q3 2024, before the flagship J8 arrives in Q4 2024. More details, including local specifications and pricing, will be released closer to the respective models’ launches in 2024.

lineup as an off-roading-capable urban SUV. However, be it in terms of exterior design or performance specifications, the JAECOO 7 boasts capabilities that transcend its class. One can distinctly perceive JAECOO’s ethos of “From Classic, Beyond Classic” in this vehicle.

To cater to urban elites who crave distinctiveness and style in their vehicles, the JAECOO 7, while continuing with classic aesthetics, adopts a cutting-edge design language that encapsulates modern off-roading chic. Its robust and square-edged overall style is adorned with a matrix-style grille and sharp LED headlights, portraying raw power almost flawlessly. The generous use of straight lines on the side accentuates strength and adds layers to the visual depth. Hidden handles, off-road rims, and other detail elements further enhance its tough and rugged ambiance.

Beyond its striking appearance, JAECOO 7 also shines in its power and off-roading performance. It sports a 1.6TGDI engine, boasting a peak power of 197 horsepower and a maximum torque of 290 Newton-meters. The drivetrain pairs with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, offering both two-wheel and all-wheel drive options. Its acceleration performance stands impressively in the 8-second range. Furthermore, JAECOO 7’s approach angle is 21°, the departure angle is 29°, the minimum ground clearance is 200mm, and it can traverse waters up to a staggering depth of 600mm! Such formidable specs ensure that the JAECOO 7 possesses commendable breakout and crossing abilities, unquestionably satisfying users’ desires to explore and embrace nature.

The “Honor Student” of Intelligent Off-Roading

The wave of intelligence is unstoppable. As an emerging off-road brand, JAECOO has a visionary layout in the realm of intelligence. Drawing from the Group’s two-decade-long vehicle manufacturing foundation, JAECOO has redefined off-roading, and the JAECOO 7 represents a profound exploration into the future of intelligent mobility.

Equipped with a rare-in-its-class 14.8-inch sky screen, a 10.25-inch all-LCD dashboard, and a three-spoke flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel, the tech ambiance in the intelligent cockpit of the JAECOO 7 is palpable. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, interactions become even more agile. Additions like the SONY speakers, 540° panoramic imaging, and W-HUD heads-up display culminate in a perfect blend of technology and luxury, offering users a comprehensive upgrade from intelligent enjoyment to intelligent driving. The intelligent driving assistance system, coupled with the proprietary ARDIS all-road intelligent off-roading system, flawlessly adapts to seven intelligent all-wheel-drive modes including urban, desert, mountainous, water-crossing, muddy, and others, presenting an intelligent driving experience with unmatched lane-changing capabilities and optimal travel efficiency.

Beauty, performance, intelligence… The multifaceted prowess of JAECOO 7 makes it tougher than urban SUVs and more comfortable than traditional off-roaders, establishing it as the “honor student” in the realm of intelligent off-roading. Its advances in intelligent technology and safety not only manifest JAECOO’s strengths and determination in the tech arena but also pave new possibilities and directions for the future mobility ecosystem.