What Is OMODA? The Complete OMODA Cars Guide.
OMODA is one of the most exciting new SUV brands to hit the UK - launched in late 2024 by Chery Automotive and already turning heads for all the right reasons. Blending futuristic styling, bold design, and high‑tech interiors, OMODA delivers that premium, modern feel without the premium price tag. It’s stylish, distinctive, and packed with features that make every drive feel forward‑thinking and fun. With its rapid rise in popularity and futuristic looks, OMODA is quickly becoming the go‑to choice for UK drivers who want an SUV that feels fresh, innovative and unmistakably modern. Join us as we dive into everything you need to know about OMODA and why it’s shaking up the UK SUV market.
The History of OMODA
OMODA was founded in 2022 by Chery automobile and was specifically designed to exported to markets outside of China, alongside its sister brand JAECOO. Though both brands launched at a similar time and were both part of Chery Automotive, they both targeted very different audiences. Whilst the JAECOO boasted a rugged, ready for anything design perfect for an outdoor adventure the OMODA took a different approach, offering a futuristic fashion forward style.
After gaining traction across Western Europe, the brand arrived in the UK in August 2024 with two key models: the petrol powered OMODA 5 and the fully electric OMODA E5. From its arrival, it was clear that OMODA aimed to compete not only with mainstream rivals such as the Kia Sportage but also with buyers from the second hand market. These customers were looking for a premium feeling SUV at an accessible price, and OMODA’s bold design and tech led interior helped it stand out immediately.
What Does OMODA stand for?
The name OMODA is rooted in the brand’s core identity. Chery explains that the “O” stands for “Oxygen,” representing vitality, energy and the essential spark of life. “Moda” means fashion, capturing the brand’s passion for trend‑setting style, modern innovation and a forward‑thinking design that feels excitingly ahead of its time.
Chery president Zhang Guibing stated early on that OMODA was created for customers he described as the “Fashion Elite,” meaning drivers who want a car that is stylish, dynamic and confidently avant‑garde. This vision continues to guide the brand’s design philosophy and product development.
In February 2026, OMODA took centre stage at London Fashion Week as the OMODA 7 made its stylish UK debut, instantly capturing attention and cementing the brands fashion forward automotive design. As a principal partner of the event, OMODA didn’t just showcase a new SUV it proved that its influence in the UK extends far beyond the road and firmly into the world of fashion and culture. If you want a closer look at this standout moment, check out our feature on the OMODA 7’s London Fashion Week debut here.
What OMODA models are available?
OMODA now offers an ever‑growing range of models in the UK. After the OMODA 5 and all‑electric OMODA E5 made their debut in 2024, the line‑up expanded quickly with the arrival of the OMODA 9 plug‑in hybrid SUV in May 2025. As the brand continues to grow, both showrooms and customers are eagerly anticipating the launch of the OMODA 7, especially after its standout debut at London Fashion Week.
OMODA 5
The OMODA 5 (starting from just £23,990) is OMODA’s style‑driven compact SUV, created for drivers who want futuristic design, modern comfort and advanced technology wrapped into one beautifully confident package. Every OMODA 5 ICE model is powered by a 1.6‑litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 7‑speed DCT automatic gearbox, delivering a smooth and refined drive that feels effortless whether you’re navigating busy city streets or heading out on a weekend trip. Inside, the cabin brings a premium touch with heated leather front seats, a leather‑trimmed dashboard and door panels, and seamless connectivity through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. LED lighting front and rear enhances both visibility and style, giving the OMODA 5 a striking presence on the road.
The OMODA 5 Knight offers a clean, minimalist look, available exclusively in single‑colour finishes that highlight its sculpted design. Its 18‑inch black and silver alloy wheels give it a bold stance, while the absence of roof rails keeps its silhouette sleek and sporty. For drivers who prefer something more expressive, the OMODA 5 Noble adds an extra layer of luxury and flair. It introduces elegant two‑tone colour options with a contrasting roof, along with larger 19‑inch gloss black wheels accented by distinctive red callipers. Silver roof rails add practicality without compromising style, and daily life feels even easier thanks to its power tailgate and a tilt‑and‑slide sunroof that fills the interior with natural light.
The result is a compact SUV that feels fashionable, capable and perfectly suited to those who want their car to look as good as it feels to drive.
OMODA E5 (BEV)
The OMODA E5 (starting from £33,065) is the fully electric counterpart to the OMODA 5, offering the same stylish, modern design with a smoother, cleaner driving experience. As one of only two fully electric models in the OMODA & JAECOO range, it is built for drivers who want both style and sustainability. Subtle exterior updates such as a grill‑free front, slimmer headlights and a refined bumper give it a futuristic look, with both trims featuring 18‑inch black and silver alloy wheels.
Powered by a 61 kWh battery, the E5 delivers up to 257 miles of range and supports rapid charging from 30 to 80% in around 30 minutes, making it ideal for daily commutes or spontaneous trips.
The OMODA E5 Knight embraces a clean, modern aesthetic that feels effortlessly contemporary. Its single‑colour exterior gives it a polished look, while the grill free front and streamlined roofline highlight its electric personality. The overall effect is sleek, confident and beautifully uncomplicated. For drivers who want something with a little more, the OMODA E5 Noble brings a more expressive personality. Its two‑tone body with a contrasting roof adds instant visual impact, complemented by silver roof rails. The tilt‑and‑slide sunroof introduce a layer of everyday luxury, filling the cabin with light and making every journey feel that bit more special.
Stylish, capable and future ready, the OMODA E5 is a smart choice for anyone wanting a modern electric SUV without compromise.
OMODA 7
The OMODA 7 (starting at £29,915) is the newest addition to the OMODA line‑up, bringing a confident blend of style, technology and everyday practicality. Fresh from its high‑profile debut as the British Fashion Council’s official VIP transport at London Fashion Week, it arrives in the UK already associated with modern design and a strong sense of individuality. Positioned between the OMODA 5 and the OMODA 9, it offers a sleek, sculpted exterior with striking LED lighting, semi‑hidden door handles and a panoramic roof that gives the car its distinctive, modern silhouette.
Powered by OMODA’s SHS plug in hybrid system, the OMODA 7 delivers a 56 mile all electric range for zero emission daily driving and more than 700 miles of combined range for longer trips. It also supports up to 40 kW DC fast charging for quick battery top ups. Inside, it focuses on calm comfort with a 15.6 inch touchscreen, intelligent voice control, AI assisted driving features and a built in fragrance system with three scent options.
The OMODA 7 Knight gives a more understated and purposeful feel, featuring 19‑inch alloys, heated seats and steering wheel, and memory settings for the driver’s seat. It’s the choice for drivers who prefer a clean, modern look with all the essentials for comfort and convenience. The OMODA 7 Noble introduces a more premium feel, enhancing the experience with heated and cooled front seats, larger 20‑inch gloss‑black diamond‑cut wheels with red callipers, a Sony surround sound system, a panoramic tilt‑and‑slide sunroof and a power tailgate. It’s designed for those who want their SUV to feel every bit as indulgent as it is capable.
OMODA 9
The OMODA 9 (starting from £44,990) stands at the very top of the OMODA line‑up, serving as the brand’s flagship model and offering the most luxurious and performance‑focused experience within the range.
The OMODA 9 is designed to be a high‑performance, high‑comfort 5‑seat plug‑in hybrid SUV that blends refinement with capability. Available exclusively in the top‑tier Noble trim, it offers a curated selection of four exterior colours; White, Black, Grey and the striking matte "Hawks Eye Grey" giving this OMODA SUV a commanding presence on the road. Inside, passengers are treated to heated and cooled seats both front and rear, an Alcantara headlining, and a panoramic 1.8‑metre tilt‑and‑slide sunroof. High‑end touches such as a head‑up display, 20‑inch diamond‑cut alloys and electromagnetic adaptive suspension further elevate the experience.
Performance is where the OMODA 9 truly sets itself apart. Its advanced plug‑in hybrid system delivers 93 miles of electric‑only range (WLTP), more than enough for emission‑free daily driving, while offering over 700 miles of combined range when paired with its hybrid petrol engine. With up to 70 kW DC fast charging, the battery can be boosted from 30 - 80% in as little as 30 minutes. The OMODA 9 also features AWD with selectable terrain modes, ensuring confidence on all surfaces. Despite this, emissions remain remarkably low at just 38 g/km.
OMODA Design and Technology
OMODA’s design philosophy blends modern style with a sense of sophistication, creating fashion‑forward SUVs that feel premium while remaining an affordable choice for drivers who do not want to compromise on comfort or features.
Inside, OMODA delivers a cabin experience shaped by luxury design and intelligent technology. The spacious interior is centred around impressive displays that place navigation, entertainment and key functions within easy reach. The interface is clean and visually calming, creating a digital space that is stylish rather than cluttered. With OMODA models encompassing simple voice activation, just say “Hello OMODA”, everyday tasks become hands free and effortless. Safety features work quietly in the background to support every journey. All OMODA models include intelligent driver assistance systems such as blind spot detection, lane guidance, adaptive cruise control and automatic braking, helping create a secure and reassuring feel on the road.
Overall, OMODA combines fashion inspired design with smart innovation, creating an SUV range that feels modern, expressive and enjoyable. It is a blend of style, comfort and advanced features that elevates everyday driving into something more considered and contemporary, proving that an affordable SUV can still feel truly premium.
OMDOA Cars UK – The Sandown Partnership
At Sandown we’re proud to be able to bring all OMODA models to drivers across Dorset, Surrey and Hampshire. With over 40 years of experience in automotive retail, we’re perfectly placed to introduce the UK to the next generation of affordable SUV’s.
As an authorised OMODA JAECOO dealership, our centres are proud to be able to provide customers with the full UK lineup including the OMODA 5, OMODA E5, OMODA 9 and very soon the stylish new OMODA 7. All models are competitively priced starting from just £23,990 for the OMODA 5. Whether you visit our dealerships in Basingstoke or Newbury, or our upcoming Poole location, you will be welcomed by a knowledgeable team dedicated to helping you find the perfect OMODA for your lifestyle. Our experts take the time to understand your needs, ensuring you drive away with confidence and excitement.
Sandown is more than a place to buy your OMODA. Our comprehensive aftersales support ensures your vehicle is cared for long after you leave the showroom. From diagnostics to routine servicing, our experienced technicians work to manufacturer standards, giving you complete peace of mind throughout your ownership.
Is OMODA a Good Car?
Although OMODA only arrived in the UK a few years ago, it has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most appealing and affordable SUV brands on the market. Drivers appreciate that OMODA offers genuine value without asking them to choose between affordability and premium quality. The brand’s fashion‑forward styling and advanced technology have already made a strong impression, with many praising how effortless and enjoyable the cars feel to drive.
Alongside its striking design and high‑tech features, OMODA gives buyers added peace of mind with a comprehensive 7‑year warranty. This level of reassurance, paired with a rapidly growing customer base and positive early feedback, has helped OMODA establish solid trust in a short space of time. Despite being a relatively new name in the UK, it is clear why so many drivers are choosing OMODA with confidence.
It's no surprise that OMODA is already appealing to early adopters. By combining premium quality, a luxury feel, intelligent technology and proven reliability in an SUV that stays affordable, it delivers a driving experience that feels both exciting and accessible.
Is OMODA Right for You?
OMODA is a rapidly growing automotive brand offering some of the most stylish and affordable SUV options in the UK market. Designed to blend futuristic styling with premium comfort, OMODA SUVs such as the OMODA 5, OMODA E5, OMODA 7 and OMODA 9 deliver advanced technology, bold design and excellent everyday usability without the high price tag. From the fashion‑forward OMODA 5 to the fully electric OMODA E5 and the plug‑in hybrid OMODA 7 and OMODA 9, the brand consistently focuses on value, innovation and modern appeal. With features like sleek LED lighting, high‑tech interiors, long‑range electric driving and comprehensive driver assistance systems, OMODA has quickly established itself as a leading choice for drivers seeking an affordable SUV that still feels premium, stylish and future‑ready. Backed by a generous 7‑year warranty and expanding UK presence, OMODA continues to redefine what an affordable SUV can offer for modern, design‑led drivers.
To explore the full OMODA range and experience this modern, fashion‑forward vehicle first hand, get in touch with the Sandown team today and start your journey.
