The Australian plug-in hybrid SUV market is heating up — and the latest entry comes from a fresh face with big ambitions. Chinese automotive giant Chery has officially launched the Omoda 9, with first deliveries and showroom arrivals expected in early August.
Here are five key things to know about the 2026 Omoda 9 as it hits Australian shores:
Omoda is making its Australian debut, as a standalone brand
The Omoda 9 marks the launch of the Omoda sub-brand in Australia, separate from Chery’s main lineup. Previously offered Omoda models like the Omoda 5 SUV were sold under the Chery badge, but it has now been rebadged as the Chery C5. From here on, Omoda will operate as its own upmarket label, sharing showroom space with its sister brand, Jaecoo, in new Omoda Jaecoo dealerships across the country. The Omoda 9 is targeting the premium SUV segment.
Premium price for premium SUV
At $61,990 before on-road costs, the Omoda 9 Virtue SHS sits at the upper end of the mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV segment — pricier than well-established options like the BYD Sealion 6 Premium ($52,990), Toyota RAV4 Hybrid ($58,360), and Hyundai Tucson Premium Hybrid ($59,600).
Most powerful non-EV Chinese car in the market
Under the bonnet, the Omoda 9 pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with three electric motors. Together, they generate a combined output of 395kW, making it the most powerful non-electric Chinese car ever sold in Australia. The Omoda 9’s electrified nature is not just about efficiency and it is no slouch on the road. Its 0–100km/h sprint time is in line with performance-focused SUVs that cost significantly more.
| Category | Details |
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol (105kW / 215Nm) |
| Electric Motors | 3 motors: 75kW + 90kW (front), 175kW (rear) |
| Combined Power Output | 395kW (most powerful non-EV Chinese car sold in Australia) |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Transmission | 3-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission |
| 0–100km/h Acceleration | 4.9 seconds |
| Battery Capacity | 34kWh |
| Electric-Only Range | 169km (NEDC) |
| Hybrid Total Range | Up to 1100km |
| Fast Charging Capability | DC up to 70kW |
| Charging Time (30–80%) | Approx. 25 minutes |
Despite its high performance figures, the claimed EV range is one of the longest for a PHEV in its class, thanks to a battery size that used to be found in small EVs. In combined hybrid driving, Omoda claims a total range of up to 1100km.
Fully loaded with premium features
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The Omoda 9 will be sold in a single, fully-loaded specification: the Virtue SHS. Highlights include:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Dual 12.3-inch displays (digital cluster + infotainment)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite navigation, in-car voice assistant
- Leather seats, with heating and ventilation for both front and rear outboard passengers
- Eight-way power driver’s seat with under-thigh support
- Head-up display, panoramic sunroof, and 50W wireless charging
- 14-speaker Sony audio system with speakers in the driver’s headrest
- Ambient interior lighting, in-built dashcam, in-car fragrance diffuser
- ADAS tech: AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and eight airbags
While it lacks the brand cachet of its European and Japanese rivals, it’s clearly spec’d to win over buyers with luxury-level features at a comparatively lower price.
Between mid-size and large SUVs
At 4775mm long, 1920mm wide, and 1671mm tall, the Omoda 9 is larger than mainstream mid-size SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage. Yet, it’s not as big as seven-seater family SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento. It’s designed as a spacious five-seater that fits neatly between urban runabouts and large family SUVs, offering versatility without bulk.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Omoda 9 rolls into Australia with serious intent, big power, loads of features, and a bold new badge. Whether Aussies will take the leap on a new name for a price tag north of $60k remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure, the Omoda 9 isn’t here to play it safe.
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