If you thought that the electric vehicle market in New Zealand was crowded, then take a (passenger) seat because another brand has entered the chat; introducing Omoda.

It is a significant entry into the electric vehicle market as it is brand that is relatively new but rapidly gaining traction. 

Omoda is a sub-brand of Chery Automobile, a Chinese automotive manufacturer. Established in 1997, Chery has become one of China's largest car manufacturers, with a strong focus on exporting vehicles to international markets. 

Omoda was introduced as a new brand to appeal to younger, tech-savvy customers who are looking for stylish, modern vehicles that incorporate the latest automotive technologies.

The E5 EX, an electric crossover SUV, is one of the brand’s first major forays into the increasingly competitive EV market. It is 4424mm long, 1830mm wide and a height of 1588mm.

The top spec EX is priced from $54,990 and has a 64 kWh battery pack produces 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque with three driving modes; Eco, Normal and Sport.

In Eco mode, the vehicle prioritises energy efficiency, extending the range by reducing power output. Sport mode, on the other hand, sharpens the throttle response and increases steering weight, making the drive more engaging.

For an electric SUV, it offers enough power for confident overtaking on motorways and smooth, responsive performance in urban settings.

One of the standout features of the E5 EX is its driving dynamics. The vehicle is equipped with a well-tuned suspension system that balances comfort with agility. Whether navigating city streets or taking on winding country roads, the E5 EX feels stable and composed.

The low centre of gravity, a characteristic of many electric vehicles due to the battery placement, contributes to the car’s excellent handling. Steering is precise, with just the right amount of weight, making the vehicle easy to maneuver even in tighter spaces.

It has a 430km electric range, and while competitive, especially for daily commuting and typical urban use, it falls slightly short compared to some of its more established rivals in the EV market. 

The range on my test vehicle was 375km when I got it and I also had to use public charging stations twice during my seven-day test as I was using heating, thus reducing the range.

However, the E5 EX supports fast charging, allowing the battery to be replenished from 10% to 80% in about 40 minutes, making long trips more feasible.

The design of the 2024 Omoda E5 EX is one of its most striking features. Omoda has clearly invested in creating a vehicle that stands out on the road. The E5 EX adopts a modern, almost futuristic design language that is characterized by sharp lines, a sleek profile, and a distinctive front fascia.

I liked the front of the E5 EX, it features a bold, closed-off grille—a common trait in electric vehicles, as there’s no need for traditional cooling. The LED headlights are slim and aggressive, giving the car a confident and high-tech appearance.

The sculpted hood and aerodynamic bodywork contribute to both the car’s aesthetics and its efficiency, reducing drag and improving overall performance.

The side profile of the E5 EX is equally impressive, with a coupe-like silhouette that enhances its sporty appeal. The use of contrasting colors and chrome accents around the windows adds a touch of sophistication, while the large wheels and slightly raised ride height give the vehicle a commanding presence.

At the rear, the design is clean and cohesive, with LED taillights that stretch across the width of the car, creating a sense of width and stability. The absence of exhaust pipes further emphasizes the car’s electric nature, while the subtle roof spoiler and sculpted rear bumper enhance its dynamic look.

Inside the 2024 Omoda E5 EX, the cabin that is both luxurious and high-tech. I liked the simplicity of it and Omoda has focused on creating an interior that not only looks good but is also functional and comfortable.

The dashboard is dominated by a large, high-resolution touchscreen that controls the majority of the car’s functions, from navigation to climate control. The interface is intuitive, with clear graphics and responsive controls, although some drivers might miss physical buttons for certain frequently used functions. 

The digital instrument cluster is equally impressive, offering customizable displays that provide all the necessary driving information at a glance.

The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and metallic accents that give the interior a sophisticated feel. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, with ample adjustment options to ensure a comfortable driving position. 

Both front and rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making the E5 EX a practical choice for families or those who frequently travel with passengers.

In terms of cargo space, the E5 EX offers a decent amount of room for a vehicle in this class. The rear seats can be folded down to create a flat loading floor, increasing the available space for larger items. While it may not have the largest cargo area in the segment, it is more than sufficient for daily use and weekend getaways.

I had three adult passengers and a boot full of horse riding gear, warm weather gear and food on an outing to the countryside for lessons, and it easily handled the load. I put it into Sport mode for the motorway part of the trip, and we overtook with ease.

It also handled the winding country roads comfortably, and I appreciated its height of 1588mm so the riders could sit on the boot lip to put on their boots.

The 2024 Omoda E5 EX enters a market filled with strong competitors, including the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia EV6, and Volkswagen ID.5. Each of these vehicles brings its own set of strengths, making the EV market highly competitive.

The 2024 Omoda E5 EX is a strong contender in the compact electric SUV segment. Its innovative design, advanced technology, and solid performance bring a fresh perspective to the market.