Omoda E5: The Chinese Electric SUV Aiming to Make its Mark in Europe

The Omoda E5 arrives as a fresh face in an already crowded automotive landscape, but this first electric model from Chery doesn’t come quietly. Behind this young brand stands a major Chinese manufacturer capable of building more than a million cars a year. The E5 becomes their European calling card, with a clear ambition: offer a compact electric SUV that’s well-equipped, accessible, and easy to integrate into everyday life.

A modern design that feels familiar

From the outside, the E5 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Its 4.40-meter footprint gives it the perfect proportions of a compact SUV, with a coupé-like silhouette shaped by its floating roofline and sloping rear. The electric version stands out with a closed grille and boomerang-shaped lighting, enough to build an identity without overdoing it.

Some design cues may remind you of a few established rivals, especially at the rear, but overall the E5 leans toward a clean, accessible look designed to please a wide audience.

A spacious and well-finished interior

Inside, the E5 immediately surprises with its presentation. Materials feel pleasant, the finish is neat, and although a few elements seem “inspired” by premium brands, the overall impression remains positive. The dual 12-inch screen layout adds a modern touch and offers clear visuals, even if some functions are buried a little too deep within the menus.

Space is one of the cabin’s real strengths. Thanks to a generous wheelbase, two adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats, and the 480-liter trunk is practical for family use. The small front trunk and the V2L function, capable of powering external devices, add welcome versatility.

Lots of equipment, with slightly intrusive alerts

The E5 comes generously equipped, especially in upper trims: high-quality 360° cameras, panoramic roof, heated seats, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. It all contributes to a genuinely upscale atmosphere.

Driver assistance systems, however, could use some refinement. Alerts tend to be loud and frequent, and turning them off requires navigating through menus at every start. It’s manageable, but clearly an area where improvements would help.

A 61 kWh battery and realistic range

Under the floor sits a 61 kWh LFP battery paired with a 204 hp motor. The official range is 430 km WLTP, but in real mixed conditions, you can expect around 340 to 360 km. A perfectly reasonable figure for this segment.

Charging performance is adequate rather than exceptional: 11 kW AC and 110 kW DC, enough to go from 30 to 80% in just under 30 minutes on a fast charger. It fits naturally into the rhythm of long-distance travel.

On the road: smooth, easy, but not sporty

Once you set off, the E5 proves pleasant in most situations. It’s nimble in town, comfortable on the open road, and its tight turning radius makes everyday manoeuvres simple. The suspension keeps body movements well controlled, adding a sense of reassurance.

Push it harder, however, and the limits of its front-wheel-drive layout appear. With instant torque on the front axle, traction can be challenged during strong acceleration, and the steering lacks a bit of precision. It won’t bother daily drivers, but spirited drivers will notice.

A very convincing first step

In the end, the Omoda E5 shows that Chery isn’t here to simply test the waters. With its generous space, rich equipment, and coherent range, it positions itself as a serious contender in a competitive market.

It’s not perfect — ergonomics, driver aids and traction could be refined — but for a first electric model intended for Europe, the level of maturity is impressive. The E5 clearly sets the tone: Chinese newcomers are arriving with ambition, and they intend to stay.