Chery Omoda C9 launches with petrol and plug-in hybrid variants

Chery’s latest Omoda C9 has been launched, marketed under the Exeed sub-brand as Yaoguang in China. According to CarNewsChina’s report on Sunday (24 May), the mid-size SUV is offered with a choice of 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbo plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) system.

The PHEV variant boasts an electric-only range of up to 120 kilometres under China’s CLTC standard. Pricing starts at 124,900 yuan (approximately Rp325 million) to 139,900 yuan (around Rp364 million).

First introduced in 2023 as a pure internal combustion engine SUV, the PHEV variant, C9 (Yaoguang) C-DM, was launched in 2024. The 2027 model includes a Night Edition with internal combustion engine.

Cosmetic enhancements include Michelin tyres, red-accented brake calipers, a black suede roof lining, and smoky black alloy wheels for a sportier appearance.

The manufacturer guarantees the vehicle meets “four zero” standards: zero formaldehyde, zero odour, zero allergens, and zero benzene – common components in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) typically associated with “new car smell”.

Safety features include over 85% high-strength steel in the chassis structure for the 2027 model. The roof can withstand up to 10 tonnes of load and offers enhanced protection during rollovers or heavy impacts.

The C9 C-DM’s battery has been updated with a “Rhino Cleaver” LFP pack rated for over 5,000 charging cycles. Chery claims the cells can withstand extreme deformation and multiple penetrations while maintaining normal power output even when damaged or submerged.

Suspension setup consists of McPherson struts at the front and multi-link at the rear. The 2027 China-made C9 no longer offers all-wheel drive (AWD) or adjustable suspension options.

The petrol variant uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine producing 192 kW (257 hp), paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The PHEV combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine (115 kW/154 hp) with a front electric motor (150 kW/201 hp) for a total output of 265 kW (355 hp). It features a 19.5 kWh LFP battery for a 120 km electric range under CLTC and supports DC fast charging, reaching 30-80% in 17 minutes.

Chery’s current Omoda lineup in Indonesia consists of the C5 model, priced between Rp320 million and Rp350 million, with the hybrid variant (CSH) at Rp399.9 million.