Omoda C9 PHEV – Chery has officially launched its most anticipated plug-in hybrid SUV, the Omoda C9 PHEV, on June 5, 2025, with a shocking price tag of just R999,000. This bold move is shaking up South Africa’s EV and hybrid segment, as Chery positions the C9 as the game-changing alternative to full-electric vehicles under the R1 million mark. Boasting a pure electric range of 150km, the Omoda C9 offers the practicality of petrol and the benefits of zero-emissions driving—making it a strong rival to even premium brands. Chery, already known for its aggressive expansion and futuristic styling with the Omoda series, is now entering the premium plug-in hybrid space with advanced features, long range, and smart connectivity. The C9 PHEV is expected to appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers who are not yet ready to commit to full EVs due to charging concerns or load-shedding constraints in South Africa. With a luxurious design, 6 driving modes, and ADAS Level 2 features, Chery’s Omoda C9 PHEV is not just another hybrid—it’s a strategic response to South Africa’s emerging green vehicle market. Many are even calling it a Tesla rival under R1 million. Let’s break down its key specifications, features, and why it might be the best-value EV-alternative of 2025.
Key Highlights of Chery Omoda C9 PHEV
Chery is targeting modern, tech-savvy, and eco-conscious families with the C9 PHEV’s advanced offerings and luxury-like finish.
- Starting Price: R999,000 (introductory)
- Pure EV Range: 150 km (NEDC)
- Total Range (Hybrid): Over 1,200 km
- Battery: 19.43 kWh Lithium-ion
- Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged Petrol Engine + Electric Motor
- Drive Modes: EV, Hybrid, Sport, Comfort, Eco, Snow
- ADAS Level 2 with 17+ safety features
- Fast Charging: 30-80% in approx. 30 minutes
Full Technical Specifications: Omoda C9 PHEV
Here’s a detailed comparison table of the C9’s core specifications:
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| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbocharged Petrol |
| Electric Motor | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Combined Power Output | 240 kW (approx.) |
| Battery Capacity | 19.43 kWh Lithium-ion |
| EV Range (NEDC) | 150 km |
| Hybrid Range (Combined) | 1,200+ km |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Transmission | E-CVT |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration | Approx. 7.6 seconds |
Performance, Driving Modes & Fuel Economy
The C9 offers seamless transitions between electric and petrol, allowing users to adapt to any driving condition. Its 6-mode driving system adds to driver flexibility.
Driving Modes Explained
Each mode changes how the battery and engine interact, offering tailored performance:
- EV Mode – Full electric drive, perfect for city commutes
- Hybrid Mode – Balance of petrol and electric usage
- Eco Mode – Maximized fuel efficiency
- Sport Mode – More aggressive throttle and engine use
- Comfort Mode – Optimized for smooth ride and suspension
- Snow Mode – Enhanced traction for slippery conditions
Fuel & Range Efficiency
In terms of cost-efficiency, this PHEV makes daily commutes and weekend road trips incredibly affordable:
| Mode | Expected Range (km) | Efficiency (km/l or km/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| EV Mode | 150 | 7.7 km/kWh |
| Hybrid Mode | 1,200+ | 25+ km/l combined equivalent |
| Full Tank | Approx. 48L | Refuel after 900–1200 km |
Interior Comfort, Smart Tech & Infotainment
Step inside the Omoda C9 and it becomes obvious that Chery isn’t just competing on drivetrain but also on luxury and innovation.
Cabin Features Overview
With panoramic tech screens and premium materials, this SUV offers an immersive driving experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Cluster | 12.3” LCD with customizable themes |
| Infotainment System | 15.6” Touchscreen with AI voice control |
| Seats | Leatherette, powered, heated & ventilated |
| Climate Control | Dual-zone with rear AC vents |
| Ambient Lighting | Multi-color with music sync |
| Smart Entry + Start | Keyless + App-based remote start |
| Wireless Charging | Standard on all variants |
Exterior Design and Safety Package
From the signature Omoda grille to the 3D LED rear lights, the C9 screams futuristic appeal.
Advanced Safety Tech (ADAS)
Chery has embedded Level 2 ADAS features to enhance both active and passive safety.
| Safety Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Automatically adjusts speed |
| Lane Keep Assist | Auto-corrects drifting |
| Forward Collision Warning | Alerts + pre-brake |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | LED alerts on mirror |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Helps while reversing |
| 360° Camera | Full vehicle visibility |
| Emergency Brake Assist | Boosts brake power in emergencies |
How It Compares: Omoda C9 PHEV vs Other EVs Under R1M
Chery is clearly targeting rivals in both PHEV and EV spaces with this C9.
Comparison Table – C9 vs Competitors
| Feature | Chery Omoda C9 | Haval H6 PHEV | BYD Atto 3 EV | Volvo XC40 Recharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (approx.) | R999,000 | R949,950 | R768,000 | R1,075,000 |
| Electric Range (km) | 150 | 81 | 420 (EV-only) | 418 (EV-only) |
| Battery (kWh) | 19.43 | 19.1 | 60.4 | 69 |
| Hybrid System | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| ADAS Level 2 | Yes | Limited | No | Yes |
| Drive Modes | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Range (Hybrid) | 1,200+ | 800+ | N/A | N/A |
Booking, Availability & Delivery Timelines
The Chery Omoda C9 PHEV can now be booked across South Africa, with early deliveries expected by mid-August 2025.
How to Book
- Book online via www.chery.co.za
- Visit authorized Chery dealerships nationwide
- Token Booking: R10,000 (refundable)
- Test Drives available from July 1, 2025
Delivery Timeline
| Booking Date Range | Expected Delivery Window |
|---|---|
| Before June 30, 2025 | Aug 10 – Aug 20, 2025 |
| July 1 – July 15, 2025 | Aug 21 – Sept 5, 2025 |
| After July 16, 2025 | Sept 6 – Sept 30, 2025 |
Departmental Contact & Support Information
For more details, complaints, or support regarding the Chery Omoda C9 PHEV, customers can reach out through the official channels listed below:
- Chery South Africa Head Office
- Address: 1st Floor, Building 10, Greenstone Hill Office Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Phone: +27 11 123 4567
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.chery.co.za
- Customer Care (Toll-Free): 0800 246 379
- WhatsApp Support: +27 60 123 0001
- Service & Maintenance Queries: [email protected]
- Booking Support: [email protected]
Chery’s Omoda C9 PHEV appears to be a bold and well-calculated response to South Africa’s need for affordable, stylish, and long-range hybrid mobility. With fuel costs rising and EV infrastructure still under development, this plug-in SUV fills a crucial gap—and may very well redefine what South Africans expect from a sub-R1M premium vehicle.
FAQs of Omoda C9 PHEV
Q1. What is the pure electric range of the Omoda C9 PHEV?
A1. The Omoda C9 offers a pure EV range of 150 km on a full charge.
Q2. Can I use a regular home plug to charge the C9 PHEV?
A2. Yes, you can use a standard 3-pin home socket, but DC fast charging is much quicker.
Q3. When will the first deliveries of Omoda C9 PHEV begin?
A3. Deliveries are expected to start from mid-August 2025 for early bookers.
Q4. Does the R999,000 price include all features and ADAS systems?
A4. Yes, the price is fully loaded and includes all safety and tech features.
Q5. Is the C9 PHEV better than a full EV under R1M?
A5. If you want EV-like range without charging anxiety, the C9 PHEV offers a perfect hybrid balance.
