Key highlights
- The Omoda X can identify hazards up to 90 metres away using an optional thermal night vision system.
- The SUV offers a claimed 200mm of ground clearance, a 700mm wading depth and a braked towing capacity of 1800kg.
- Both plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions are planned, although powertrain specifications are yet to be announced.
Chery’s Omoda brand has revealed the Omoda X, a new family SUV that combines a more rugged design with electrified powertrains and technology designed to improve visibility at night.
The SUV marks a change in direction for the brand, which has built its identity around sportier styling. The Omoda X instead places greater emphasis on outdoor capability, with increased ground clearance, a substantial claimed wading depth and the option of a thermal night vision system.
Animal detection is also an area of interest for other carmakers. Mahindra, for instance, has developed ADAS technology that can detect cattle on Indian roads, with the potential to adapt it for kangaroos. However, Omoda has not confirmed whether the X’s night vision system can specifically recognise animals or trigger automatic braking.
However, the technology’s ability to identify specific animals, including kangaroos, and whether it will be offered on Australian-market vehicles remain unconfirmed.
Read more: Omoda X revealed with night vision and rugged SUV styling
Omoda X dimensions and off-road capability
The Omoda X measures 4650mm long, 1910mm wide and 1720mm tall, putting it in the same general size bracket as the Toyota RAV4 and Omoda 7.
Its claimed 200mm of ground clearance should provide some extra room beneath the vehicle when travelling over uneven surfaces. The stated 700mm wading depth also suggests the SUV has been developed with more demanding conditions in mind than a conventional urban-focused family vehicle.
These figures alone do not establish how capable the Omoda X will be off-road. Details such as approach and departure angles, underbody protection, tyre specifications and the availability of dedicated off-road driving modes have yet to be confirmed.
The SUV will be offered with both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, giving buyers a choice between simpler drivetrain hardware and additional traction. Its braked towing capacity is rated at 1800kg, although further towing specifications have not been disclosed.
For Australian buyers, those details will matter when assessing whether the Omoda X is suited to gravel roads, camping trips and light off-road use, rather than simply looking the part.
Hybrid and electric powertrains planned
Omoda has confirmed that the X will be offered with both plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains. However, the company has not yet released detailed specifications for either version.
Alongside the SUV’s reveal, the brand also outlined a new hybrid system featuring a 5kWh battery. That is larger than the batteries typically used in conventional hybrids, which rely on a relatively small battery to support the petrol engine and electric motor.
The additional capacity is intended to allow more electric driving and support vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality. V2L allows a vehicle to supply electricity to compatible external devices, which could be useful for camping equipment and other portable appliances.
It has not been confirmed whether this specific 5kWh hybrid system will be fitted to the Omoda X, or whether its plug-in hybrid version will use the same battery arrangement.
The fully electric variant’s battery capacity, driving range, charging speeds and motor outputs also remain unknown. Those figures will be important for Australian buyers comparing it with established electric SUVs.
New cabin technology, but Australian launch unconfirmed
The Omoda X will feature a redesigned interior, including a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
Further details about the cabin, safety equipment and standard features are expected closer to the vehicle’s official launch.
For now, there is no confirmed Australian launch date, and local pricing and availability have not been announced. It is also unclear which powertrains and equipment levels would be offered here if the SUV arrives.
The Omoda X could appeal to buyers looking for a family SUV with electrified power, practical towing capacity and features suited to driving beyond city limits. But its final specifications, Australian equipment and price will determine how competitive it is against established hybrid and electric SUVs.
Until those details are confirmed, the Omoda X remains a model to watch rather than a confirmed addition to Australia’s new-car market.
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