It is the brand’s first conventional hybrid electric vehicle locally, combining petrol and electric power for improved efficiency without sacrificing performance, a good thing with the current high fuel prices.

What is it?

The C5 SHS is a hybrid variant of the best-selling C5, positioned as a more efficient alternative to its petrol siblings. It joins OMODA’s growing electrified portfolio, which already includes plug-in hybrids, but stands out as the first conventional hybrid in the range.

Exterior:

The SHS retains the styling of the C5 but introduces subtle details that set it apart. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with red-painted brake callipers. Automatic LED headlights, daytime running lights and a sunroof add to its premium appearance, while practical features such as roof rails and a power-operated boot lid enhance usability.

Interior:

Inside, the SHS offers a revised cabin layout compared with the standard C5. A symmetrical dashboard and bridge-style centre console replace the floating design of the petrol models, creating a cleaner and more integrated look.

Standard features include dual 12.3-inch screens, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity and an eight-speaker Sony sound system. Comfort is prioritised with black leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control and rear air vents. Practicality is enhanced by 60/40 split-folding rear seats, expanding boot capacity from 372 litres to 1 072 litres.

Specs:

The SHS is equipped with disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front, and uses a MacPherson strut front suspension with a multilink rear setup. Convenience features include automatic windscreen wipers, keyless entry with push-button start, a 50W wireless phone charger and acoustic glass for a quieter cabin. Safety is comprehensive, with seven airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, electronic stability programme, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist and a 360-degree camera.

Engine:

Power comes from a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing 165kW and 295Nm of torque. The SHS accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 175 km/h, Omoda claims.

A Dedicated Hybrid Transmission ensures smooth power delivery, while fuel consumption is rated at 4.9 L/100 km. A 1.83kWh battery and 51-litre fuel tank give the SHS a driving range of more than 1 000 km, says the manufacturer.

Prices:

The OMODA C5 SHS is priced at R469 900, with the official price set at R479 000. The purchase includes a five-year/75,000 km service plan, a five-year/150 000 km factory warranty and a 10-year/one-million km engine warranty for the first owner.