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.
