2024 Chery OMODA C9 2WD Review

The competition in the D-Segment SUV market in Malaysia is expected to intensify in 2024. Consumers are looking for spaciousness to meet family needs while also valuing a balance between power and intelligent features — the Chery OMODA C9 2WD is a brand-new model introduced in this context. With its combination of a 2.0T high-power engine and an 8AT gearbox, comprehensive safety features, and a pricing of RM168,800, it has garnered significant attention upon its launch. The primary goal of our test drive is to verify whether this vehicle meets D-segment standards in terms of static experience and whether its dynamic performance aligns with its positioning as a "performance family SUV."

From a distance, the OMODA C9 2WD’s overall design appears grand and steady, while incorporating numerous youthful elements. The front adopts a large-sized borderless grille, featuring an interconnected black diamond pattern design paired with sharp LED headlights on each side (integrated with daytime running lights), making it highly recognizable. The streamlined body lines on the side extend from the fenders to the rear, enhancing its muscular look, while its 20-inch multi-spoke wheels (with 245/50 R20 tires) further boost its visual impact. The rear's standout feature is the LED light strip that stretches across the tail, illuminating a unique "C"-shaped light bar, with the chrome decorative strip on the rear bumper adding a sense of refinement. The overall design is neither overly aggressive nor mundane, allowing it to stand out among its class.

Upon opening the car door, the interior quality exceeds expectations. The dashboard uses soft-touch foam and leather wrap, and there’s barely any hard plastic in areas within reach. Complemented by silver trim accents, it creates a sophisticated luxury feel. The center console has a simple layout, with a 12.3-inch touch screen fused with a 12.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster. The screen boasts high resolution, and operation is smooth. The standard HUD head-up display system can show key information such as speed and navigation, reducing the need to frequently glance down at the instrument panel.

In terms of features, this car achieves a “premium base model” standard: the front seats support electric adjustment (6-way for the driver’s seat and 4-way for the passenger seat). While the heating function isn’t listed on the spec sheet, the seat’s snug fit felt nice during actual testing. The rear seats are equipped with independent air conditioning vents and USB ports. The flat rear floor ensures ample space for three passengers without feeling cramped. The panoramic sunroof is fixed but has a large area, and the sunshade can be electrically opened, offering rear passengers better natural lighting. For storage space, the door pockets can store large bottles of water, the center armrest box is deep enough, and the luggage compartment has a base volume of 660L. With the rear seats folded flat, there’s even more space, making it perfect for stowing strollers or suitcases.

The vehicle dimensions are 4775×1920×1671mm, with a wheelbase of 2800mm. These figures are categorized as standard within the D-Segment SUV market. In terms of actual seating experience, a 175cm tall passenger in the front row would still have a head space clearance of about two fingers' width above a fist after adjusting the seat. While keeping the front seat in the same position, sitting in the rear row grants approximately two fists of legroom, and headroom remains at one fist, ensuring even those who are 180cm tall do not feel constrained. The rear seats support a 60/40 fold-down configuration, forming a completely flat storage area when folded down, maximizing practicality. In terms of storage details, space in the front center armrest box, door pockets, and cup holders is relatively sufficient. A wireless charging pad for mobile phones is also included, adding convenience for everyday use.

Powertrain-wise, the 2.0T turbocharged engine delivers 261PS horsepower and 400N·m of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. These parameters rank among the top in its class for 2WD models. In actual driving, the throttle response is very positive in the initial acceleration phase, offering a good push-back sensation with a light press; the mid-to-late acceleration is also strong, enabling brisk overtakes even at speeds of 80km/h. The gearbox downshifts smoothly, providing instant power on demand, ensuring effortless overtaking on highways. There are three driving modes: Eco, Standard, and Sport. In Sport mode, the gearbox holds lower gears, keeping the revs above 2000 rpm for more direct power delivery. In Eco mode, the throttle softens, making it suitable for daily commuting.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel has a moderate weight and minimal slack, offering precise direction control without the cumbersome "big boat" feel. The chassis consists of front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort while maintaining decent support. When going over speed bumps or bumpy roads, the suspension filters out most minor vibrations, and the body shows no noticeable bounce. During cornering, body roll is well-controlled, ensuring passenger comfort. The braking performance is also commendable, with a linear brake pedal response and evenly distributed braking force. During emergency braking, the car body remains stable.

Noise control is excellent, with virtually no noticeable tire or wind noise below 60km/h. At 100km/h, the wind noise becomes slightly more noticeable but doesn't impede conversations inside the cabin. At 120km/h on highways, the noise levels remain acceptable, with most of it coming from wind and tire noise but not to the point of being annoying. The seats provide good support and cushioning, ensuring comfort during long drives. The air conditioning cools quickly, and the independent rear AC unit caters well to the needs of family members.

Overall, Chery OMODA C9 2WD has clear core strengths: Firstly, its power specifications surpass many other 2WD models in the same class. The 2.0T+8AT combination is sufficient for both daily family use and occasional spirited driving. Secondly, its comprehensive configuration includes generous features like 8 airbags, ACC, 360-degree panoramic imaging, HUD, a panoramic sunroof, etc., standing out when compared to competitors like the CR-V or RAV4 at similar price points. Thirdly, its spatial performance is well-balanced with a 2800mm wheelbase offering spacious front and rear seating and a practical trunk space.

Of course, it's not perfect: the fixed panoramic sunroof cannot be opened, which might be a concern for users who value ventilation. In terms of fuel economy, during our test drive, the combined fuel consumption was around 9.5L/100km, reaching up to 11L in congested urban conditions and dropping to 8L on highways. This performance is average for a 2.0T model.

The target audience is clear: if you're a family user looking for a spacious, high-spec, and powerful SUV, this car will fully meet your needs. If you're a young individual prioritizing aesthetics and smart features, the design and technology offerings of the OMODA C9 will also appeal to you. Compared to competitors at the same price point, its value for money is remarkable — 168,800 MYR gets you a high-performance 2.0T engine paired with comprehensive safety features and ample space, something almost unimaginable in the past.

Overall, the Chery OMODA C9 2WD is a "well-rounded" family SUV that delivers class-leading levels of space, power, and features, while being priced significantly lower than its competitors. If you're looking for a well-balanced, high-value D-Segment SUV, this model is worth considering for your shortlist.