Omoda C5: the crossover that knows its strengths

A B-segment crossover from a Chinese brand, featuring attractive design, high build quality, and an accessible price, though it is best suited for city driving.

Judges at the Car Awards conducted a thorough review of the Omoda C5 in November 2025, highlighting its unique position in the competitive B-segment crossover market. The vehicle, a product of a Chinese brand, aims to combine style, practicality, and value, primarily targeting urban consumers.

The Omoda C5 earned praise for several key attributes, making it a compelling option for buyers. Its design stands out with an eye-catching, sporty, and youthful aesthetic that clearly defines the brand's identity. Inside, the cabin impresses with a well-finished interior, an ergonomic layout, and a generous array of features, contributing to a comfortable and user-friendly experience.

Performance-wise, the C5 is equipped with a powerful 1.5 turbocharged engine that excels in city driving conditions, offering responsive acceleration suitable for urban commutes. Furthermore, its accessible price point positions it competitively within the segment. The brand also offers a long 10-year warranty, which is a segment-leading commitment and provides significant peace of mind for owners.

However, the judges also identified several areas where the Omoda C5 could see improvement. On the exterior, the front grille features an overly ornate design that some found cluttered. From a refinement perspective, the underbody sound insulation is poor, allowing noticeable road noise to permeate the cabin, especially at higher speeds.

In terms of driving dynamics, the Omoda C5's chassis lags behind many of its segment rivals, which could impact overall handling and stability. The suspension setup is notably soft, which, while comfortable on smooth roads, might lead to excessive body roll or less controlled movements over uneven surfaces. Additionally, the steering feel lacks precision, which could detract from a more engaging driving experience.

Summary of judges' evaluation of the Omoda C5:

Advantages:

- Eye-catching, sporty, youthful design, characteristic of the brand.

- Well-finished interior, ergonomic layout, and numerous features.

- Equipped with a powerful 1.5 turbocharged engine, excelling in city driving.

- Accessible price point.

- Long 10-year warranty, segment-leading.

Areas for improvement:

- Overly ornate grille.

- Poor underbody sound insulation, noticeable road noise.

- Chassis lags behind many segment rivals.

- Soft suspension.