The OMODA C5 continues to strengthen its position in South Africa's highly competitive compact crossover segment, with the model having recorded 16,948 local sales since its launch in April 2023.
The achievement highlights the growing appeal of the C5 among South African motorists who are increasingly prioritising value, modern technology, distinctive design, and efficient performance when selecting a new vehicle. Since arriving on local shores, the C5 has become one of the brand's most important products, helping to establish OMODA as a recognised player in the country's passenger vehicle market.
A key factor behind the model's continued success has been OMODA & JAECOO South Africa's commitment to keeping the range fresh and relevant. Over the past 13 months, the manufacturer has introduced several significant updates, including the C5 X Series, revised Street+ and Style X derivatives, and most recently, the new C5 SHS hybrid.
The latest addition to the line-up has already generated considerable interest among buyers. Following its launch in April, the first allocation of C5 SHS hybrids has been fully accounted for, reflecting strong early demand for what is positioned as one of South Africa's most accessible compact hybrid SUVs.
The C5 SHS combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined system output of 165 kW and 295 N.m of torque. Performance remains a priority despite its efficiency-focused drivetrain, with the hybrid capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.
Efficiency is equally impressive. The C5 SHS returns a WLTP-rated fuel consumption figure of just 4.9L/100 km while emitting 111 g/km of CO₂. Combined with a 51-litre fuel tank and its hybrid powertrain, the vehicle is capable of travelling more than 1,000 kilometres on a single tank, making it an attractive proposition for commuters and long-distance travellers alike.
The hybrid model also arrives with an extensive list of standard features. Buyers benefit from dual 12.3-inch digital displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera system, advanced driver assistance technologies, and seven airbags, further enhancing the value proposition that has become central to the C5's appeal.
According to Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for iCAUR South Africa and OMODA & JAECOO South Africa, the model's continued momentum reflects the brand's strategy of refining and improving the product throughout its lifecycle.
"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," said Gahagan. "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."
The introduction of the SHS hybrid builds on a broader programme of enhancements that has steadily improved the C5 range since launch. Recent updates have included refreshed exterior styling, the introduction of new dual-clutch transmission options, improved fuel efficiency, revised suspension tuning, enhanced practicality, and increased specification levels across various derivatives.
These continuous improvements have allowed the C5 to mature while maintaining its core focus on affordability and value. With a broader model range than ever before, South African consumers now have access to a variety of petrol and hybrid options designed to suit different budgets and driving requirements.
The current OMODA C5 range starts with the Street+ at R339,900, followed by the Style X at R374,900. The Lux X is priced at R425,900, while the Elegance X carries a sticker price of R465,900. The new SHS HEV sits at the top of the range at R469,900.
As the C5 approaches the 17,000-unit sales milestone, its strong market performance demonstrates the effectiveness of a strategy centred on continuous product development, competitive pricing, and expanding customer choice. The addition of the SHS hybrid further strengthens the range, ensuring the C5 remains a compelling option for South African buyers seeking modern SUV motoring with a strong emphasis on value.
