Here are Omoda C5’s strengths, weaknesses

While Omoda, together with its sister brand Jaecoo, is relatively new to the Philippine market, it already has a strong lineup of offerings. One of its locally available models is the C5 - the internal combustion-only counterpart of the all-electric E5 crossover. 

By its very nature as a compact crossover, the Omoda C5 can prove to be an attractive option for Filipinos looking for a competent daily driver that can hold its candle against the GAC GS3 Emzoom and the Changan CS35 Plus. 

From the outside to the inside, the C5 has many strengths, but does the model have any particular weaknesses? Let’s find out here. 

Pros

Peppy engine

Before talking about its weaknesses, let’s go over its strengths. One of which is its turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four gasoline mill that is at the higher end of the totem pole when it comes to producing power. 

Specifically, the Omoda C5’s 1.5-liter gasoline engine can produce up to 154 horsepower (hp) and 230 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. Power is sent to its front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Thanks to its output, Omoda says that the C5 can reach a top speed of 181 kilometers per hour. 

For stability and handling, the C5 uses a MacPherson strut for the front and a torsion beam for the rear. Stopping power for the model is provided by front and rear discs. 

Here’s a summary of the Omoda C5’s basic mechanical specs:

Engine	1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four
Drivetrain	Front-wheel-drive
Transmission	CVT
Horsepower	154
Torque	230 Nm
Front suspension	MacPherson strut
Rear suspension	Torsion beam
Brakes	Front and rear discs

Rich in comfort, convenience features

Another characteristic of the Omoda C5 that many buyers might want is its well-equipped interior. 

For starters, the model’s generously spaced five-seater layout is equipped with leather upholstery, an automatic air-conditioning system, power-adjustable front seats with ventilation, and a 60:40 split-folding rear seat.

Everyone inside the vehicle can also depend on a colorful ambient lighting system for mood improvement, even in the darkest, dreariest days. Furthermore, the vehicle comes with a power tailgate, making it easy to access the trunk. 

The driver of the Omoda-made crossover, meanwhile, has access to the following amenities:

• Electronic parking brake
• Push-to-start button
• 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster
• Leather steering wheel
• Front cabin armrest

With regard to its displays, the Omoda C5’s main screen is a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The aforementioned display is linked to an eight-piece Sony speaker set. 

Topping up devices inside the Omoda C5 is done easily thanks to the presence of a 50-watt wireless smartphone charging pad, a series of USB ports, and a 12-volt accessory outlet. Also, the model comes fitted with Intelligent Voice Control, which helps a driver adjust in-vehicle settings while keeping their attention on the road. 

The exterior of the Omoda C5, on the other hand, includes a sunroof, power-folding side mirrors, LED lighting fixtures, and a set of 18-inch wheels. 

Other stories: Mitsubishi Destinator: here’s what to expect Check out the Jaecoo EJ6's 2 trims in PH Check out Subaru Forest e-Boxer Hybrid’s comfy, driver-centric interior

 

Comprehensive safety kit

Plenty of would-be buyers of the Omoda C5 will like its comprehensive safety kit. On the passive side, the model comes with six airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic brake-force distribution, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a tire-pressure monitoring system - among others. 

With regard to its active advanced driver-assist systems, the Omoda C5 comes with the following: 

• Adaptive cruise control
• Automatic high beams
• Automatic emergency braking
• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Lane-keep assist

To note, the Omoda C5 has already attained a five-star safety rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), with a weighted score of 88.64 out of 100. 

Ready to purchase a brand-new Omoda C5? Check out these exclusive offers from Zigwheels Philippines.

 

Cons

Capacitive touch controls can be distracting

Thankfully, the Omoda C5 gets dedicated controls on its dashboard for its air-conditioning system. These, however, are capacitive touch controls, which can be fiddly and awkward to use, especially while driving. 

Sure, the model has voice controls, but as we always say, physical controls for the air-conditioning are still the gold standard when it comes to providing a driver-centric and user-friendly experience. 

Omoda C5: specifications

Model	Omoda C5 Luxury
Exterior
Dimensions (L x W x H, in mm)	4,400x1,830x1,588
Wheelbase (mm)	2,630
Ground clearance (mm)	169
Wheel size	18-inch
Lighting system	LED
Interior
Material	Leather
Amenities	Ventilated front seats Power-adjust front seats Electronic parking brake Leather steering wheel Push-to-start button Automatic air-conditioning 50-watt wireless smartphone charging pad Ambient lighting system 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster Sunroof Power-folding side mirrors Eight-piece Sony speaker set Power tailgate
Infotainment system	10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating capacity	Five
Powertrain
Engine	1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	CVT
Horsepower	154
Torque	230
Technology
Safety	Six airbags Anti-lock braking 360-degree view camera Stability control Traction control ISOFIX
ADAS	Adaptive cruise control Automatic high beams Automatic emergency braking Forward collision warning Lane departure warning Lane-keep assist
Price	P1.279 million

Final thoughts

Overall, the Omoda C5 is an attractive package that will surely attract a good deal of buyers on the hunt for a stylish and well-equipped daily driver. Plus, it is by no means a slow crossover, thanks to its peppy powertrain. The aforementioned, of course, may give an engaging drive on curvy back roads. 

For people who like what they see in the C5 crossover, do take the time to visit the nearest Omoda dealership. Doing so will acquaint you with the car, and it will definitely make for a better buying experience in the end. 

Also read:

Check out the Omoda C5's 3 trims

Check out the Omoda C5’s key rivals

Here are the 7 stunning colors of the Omoda C5

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