The large plug-in hybrid Omoda 9 has officially secured a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, giving buyers added confidence in Chery’s flagship SUV. The rating applies to all variants of the Omoda 9 sold in Australia from July 2025 onwards and is valid until December 2030.
The assessment was based on tests carried out under ANCAP’s current 2023–2025 protocols, including crash performance, occupant protection, and active safety technology.
Breaking down the scores
Adult Occupant Protection – 90%
The Omoda 9 achieved strong results in frontal offset and full-width frontal crash tests, demonstrating that its cabin structure and restraint systems work well to limit injury risk for both the driver and passengers. Side impact and far-side occupant protection tests also returned high scores, highlighting robust side intrusion resistance. The only notable shortfall came in the oblique pole test, where chest protection for the driver was rated “Marginal.” Even so, the overall balance of results underscores a high level of crashworthiness for a large SUV in this class.
Child Occupant Protection – 87%
Crash test dummies representing 6- and 10-year old children showed strong protection in both frontal offset and side impact assessments. The Omoda 9 was also rated highly for the clarity of child restraint installation, meaning most common seat types can be securely fitted without complication. The only deduction came from limited restraint options in the second-row centre seating position, where a top tether anchorage is not available. Families should note this when considering child seat placement.
Vulnerable Road User Protection – 81%
The large SUV performed commendably in AEB testing involving pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, with the system showing reliable detection and intervention in urban-speed scenarios. Knee and leg impact protection for pedestrians was strong, but head protection across the bonnet’s edge zones delivered mixed results. Pelvis protection was weaker than in some rivals, but the overall score still reflects a well-rounded active safety package that helps reduce the risk and severity of crashes involving people outside the vehicle.
Safety Assist – 82%
The Omoda 9’s active safety suite includes advanced driver-assist technologies that contributed to its score. Lane support systems such as Lane Keep Assist and Emergency Lane Keeping received maximum points, and its Speed Assistance System performed reliably in detecting and responding to posted limits. AEB scored particularly well in junction and rear-end collision scenarios, though its effectiveness in high-speed head-on crash simulations was less robust. Even so, buyers can expect a comprehensive and effective package of safety technologies as standard.
Standard safety equipment
The following features are fitted as standard across all Omoda 9 plug-in hybrid variants:
- Dual frontal, side chest-protecting, and side head-protecting airbags
- Centre airbag for front seat occupants
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK)
- Speed Assistance System with traffic sign recognition
- Rear cross-traffic AEB and reversing pedestrian detection
What does ANCAP say about this result?
ANCAP welcomed the Omoda 9’s performance, particularly its balanced showing across both passive and active safety categories.
Carla Hoorweg, ANCAP CEO, stated: “The Omoda 9’s five-star performance shows that safety is front of mind for Chery. This will provide assurance to buyers looking at large alternative-powered SUVs.”
Who should consider Omoda 9?
The Omoda 9 competes in the large SUV bracket positioned above the Omoda 5 and E5, making it attractive to a range of buyers:
- Families: Strong Adult and Child Occupant Protection scores ensure peace of mind for parents, although child restraint versatility in the second row is slightly limited.
- Eco-conscious buyers: As a plug-in hybrid, it offers lower emissions alongside five-star safety credentials.
- Fleet and corporate buyers: Meets strict five-star ANCAP criteria, appealing to businesses and government procurement.
- Private SUV buyers: Comes loaded with active safety features such as AEB, lane support, and speed assistance systems, making it a compelling choice in the growing hybrid SUV market.
Final Thoughts
The Omoda 9 has earned its place among the safest large SUVs available in Australia. Its 5-star ANCAP rating is valid through 2030, providing assurance for families, fleets, and private buyers alike. With strong crash performance and advanced driver assistance systems, Chery’s plug-in hybrid flagship demonstrates that safety remains at the core of its strategy.
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