Omoda 7 Plug-in Hybrid SUV Challenges European Market with Value and Perceived Quality

The Omoda 7 SHS plug-in hybrid SUV is making a strong impression on the European market, particularly in Spain, by offering a compelling blend of solid performance, high perceived quality, and competitive pricing. A recent review from Xataka suggests that Chinese automotive manufacturers are not just entering the market but actively conquering it, with the Omoda 7 SHS emerging as a prime example of this trend.

The review emphasizes that the Omoda 7 SHS is a “solid” vehicle, meeting most expectations across its various aspects without necessarily dazzling, but consistently delivering a high level of performance. While acknowledging minor flaws, the article asserts that these do not detract from the overall integrity and appeal of the vehicle. This strong offering is contributing to the growing presence of Chinese brands, with five Chinese models now among the top 10 best-selling plug-in hybrids in Spain.

Key facts

• Feature: Specification
• Body Type: Five-seater SUV
• Dimensions: 66m (L) x 1.875m (W) x 1.670m (H)
• Wheelbase: 720m
• Weight: 1,945 kg
• Boot Space: 537 liters
• Combined Power: 279 CV
• Electric Range (WLTP): 92 km
• Fuel Consumption (WLTP): 3 l/100 km
• Powertrain: 5L Turbo (143 CV) + Electric Motors
• Price (after incentives): From €32,900

The Omoda 7 SHS represents a strategic move by Chinese automakers to capitalize on European market dynamics. While the European Union’s imposed tariffs aimed to curb the influx of electric vehicles from China, the open door for combustion engine and plug-in hybrid vehicles has been fully exploited. This has led to Chinese brands, particularly those from the Chery group (which includes Omoda), gaining significant traction by focusing on countries where value for money is a key purchasing factor.

Perceived Quality and Interior Design

A significant factor in the Omoda 7’s appeal is its interior, which exudes a high level of perceived quality. The review notes that the steering wheel’s controls are well-integrated with a precise feel, and the climate control buttons on the central console are well-finished and pleasant to the touch.

The dashboard is dominated by a striking 15.6-inch infotainment screen that features a unique sliding mechanism. This screen can be moved towards the passenger side, operated by a hidden mechanical system. While its practicality for the driver is debatable, the novelty is seen as a playful feature that could appeal to passengers, especially children.

Beyond this unique feature, the infotainment system is described as simple and practical, with a customizable home screen and well-structured secondary menus. However, the review points out a minor drawback: adjusting elements like mirror positions requires navigating through the screen. Compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is noted as a significant improvement, with the system running smoothly without the stutters experienced in some other Chinese vehicles.

Comfort and Driving Experience

Once in motion, the Omoda 7 SHS maintains its positive impression. The seats are well-padded and feature heating and ventilation, options often found as costly additions on traditional European brands. The Head-Up Display is also standard and offers clear readability.

The Omoda 7 SHS operates as a plug-in hybrid, largely functioning as a series hybrid. In this configuration, the combustion engine primarily acts as a generator to charge the battery, while electric motors provide propulsion. The system includes a 204 CV electric motor driving the wheels and an 82 CV electric motor dedicated to power generation. The 1.5-liter, 143 CV turbocharged combustion engine can either assist the primary electric motor or act as a generator.

The 18.4 kWh CATL-made LFP battery supports AC charging at 6.6 kW and DC fast charging up to 40 kW, allowing for a 30% to 80% charge in approximately 20 minutes, according to the manufacturer. This setup allows the vehicle to operate with the smooth, quiet characteristics of an electric car for most of its operation, with the combustion engine’s sound and vibrations well-filtered.

Driving dynamics are praised for their comfort, particularly in urban environments, where the vehicle achieved around 90 km in pure electric mode. On open roads, maintaining efficiency might require switching to hybrid mode. When the battery is full, the vehicle reportedly achieved consumption below 5 liters/100 km in hybrid mode, with overall consumption remaining under 7 liters/100 km even after the battery depleted.

The suspension is described as soft, which contributes to a comfortable ride in the city. However, on more demanding national roads, a slightly firmer setup would be beneficial to reduce body roll. A notable area for improvement is the vehicle’s alert system, which is characterized as overly loud and strident, leading to drivers disabling alerts altogether. The adaptive cruise control is generally effective but can exhibit overly aggressive braking in unexpected situations, though it performs smoothly during consistent traffic flow and lane keeping.

Market Impact and Conclusion

The Omoda 7 SHS appears to have found a successful formula for the Spanish market, and likely others where value for money is paramount. By combining competitive pricing with a strong emphasis on perceived quality and extensive standard equipment, Chinese manufacturers are challenging established European brands.

While not a perfect vehicle, the Omoda 7 SHS offers a superior perceived quality compared to many rivals and an exceptionally comprehensive equipment list from the outset. This combination is proving to be a significant factor in consumer purchasing decisions, signaling a shift in the automotive landscape.

Source: Una semana con el Omoda 7 SHS han despejado todas mis dudas: ahora comprendo por qué China está conquistando el mercado español – Xataka (https://www.xataka.com/movilidad/omoda-7-shs-analisis-review-caracteristicas-precio-ficha-tecnica)