In May this year, shortly after the International Shanghai Auto Show, Omoda’s futuristic styled C3 crossover made its world debut. The production version of this model – renamed C4 (badged 04, as on the show car) – was introduced globally at the recent Omoda and Jeacoo Brand User Summit in Wuhu, China, home of mother company Chery.
The good news about the Omoda C4 is that, despite the name change, the striking cyber mecha design of the C3 show car, with its sharp, geometrical, yet dynamically flowing lines, and bold flat surfaces embodying Omoda’s “Art in Motion” design language, has remained untouched for the C4. Also, it was confirmed that the newcomer is on its way and is expected here in the second half of 2026.
With the Omoda C5 performing exceptionally well locally, recording Q3 sales of 2,408 units as part of a 26% increase in sales across the brands, plus the C7 expected imminently, the new C4 will provide additional impetus, much like the Jeacoo J5 has supported the Jaecoo J7 locally.
O&J is also performing well globally, with cumulative sales of 630,000 units, presence in 44 markets, and a continuously rising growth curve. As the brand continues to expand globally, O&J will continue to blend technological excellence with human-centric values. By co-creating with users, the brand aims to deliver intelligent, high-quality mobility experiences on a global scale.
WHY THE NAME CHANGE?
But why the last-minute name-change to 04, more so as the number four is considered unlucky in Chinese culture? Well, according to Shawn Xu, CEO of Omoda, customer and early adopter feedback indicated that potential buyers wanted more interior space, so the wheelbase of the C3 was extended by 100 mm (from 2,600 mm to 2,700 mm) for the C4.
Nonetheless, it is interesting that Omoda did not dub it C3L, the accepted designation for long-wheelbase models (more so as it is still based on the Chery Group’s T1X platform), but chose to position it higher up in its range, leaving space for smaller models beneath it.
During the spectacular introduction event, featuring many AI elements, the Omoda team emphasised co-creation sessions and dialogue with early adopters in the evolution of the C3 into the C4, underlining the brand’s commitment to shaping the future of mobility hand in hand with its global community.
The young design team of the C3 (now C4), guided by Korean designer Richard Koo (with exterior styling by Mexican Arturo Ariño), displays typical Lamborghini design traits, with the same sharp lines characterising the Urus and Revuelto – in contrast to the rounder, softer lines and hexagonal detail found on the bigger C5 and C9.
In this respect, it depicts a small Lambo for the masses, and the futuristic theme continues in the interior with angular lines and interesting finishes for the digital instrument panel (inspired by jet fighter cockpits, according to Omoda). The Lamborghini influence is also clear here, as illustrated by the angular red cover for the starter toggle switch.
MULTIPLE DRIVETRAIN OPTIONS
As indicated in May, the C4 will likely be available with petrol power (a 1.5-litre turbo engine from the Chery family), a hybrid drive system (HEV), a super-hybrid system (SHS), and probably with a fully electric powertrain, although this version will not be considered for South Africa initially.
No official power figures were given, but it will likely be close to that of existing systems as used in the C5 (115 kW and 230 Nm of torque in ICE format) and Jaecoo J7 SHS (with a combined output of 255 kW and 525 Nm of torque, coupled with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission).
A SPECIAL MODEL
Perhaps the best indication of what could be expected in terms of power delivery was a surprise parting gift at the end of the technology week, in the form of the global reveal of a unique, sporty derivative of the 04 (or C4), called the Ultra.
This special model, distinguished from the standard C4 with a prominent rear wing, bigger 19” alloy wheels and tyres, and unique colours, including bright yellow, is powered by the latest super hybrid system from the Chery Group, called SHS-H.
The system consists of a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol turbo engine delivering 105 kW and 215 Nm of torque, combined with an electric motor rated for 150 kW and 310 Nm of torque, enough to power the Ultra from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, according to Omoda, and achieve a (limited) top speed of 180 km/h (all preliminary figures).
Of interest (more so for those who can remember the days of the Dazzle Datsuns in the 1970s) is the wide selection of customised colours and patterns, as well as accessories, available for the C4 – an aspect very important to the younger target market.
Locally, the Omoda C4 will compete against models such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro. Omoda is also reportedly planning to introduce even smaller models to its range later. As stated back in May, Omoda has now found its niche in the car universe in terms of styling, and this bodes well for the future. The number 4 may prove lucky after all.
Report by FERDI DE VOS | Images © OMODA/FERDI DE VOS
