2025 Chery C5 replaces the Omoda 5 in Australia – new 6-speed DCT, multi-link suspension

Chery has officially renamed its small SUV, the Omoda 5, to the Chery C5 for the 2025 model year in Australia. Alongside the rebranding comes a few important updates, from adjustments in pricing to mechanical upgrades.

Two variants are now offered in Australia: the entry-level Urban priced at AUD 29,990 (RM82,780) and the top-spec Ultimate at AUD 34,990 (RM96,582). These drive-away prices reflect a slight bump from before, with the base model costing around AUD 2,000 more than its predecessor. The mid-range BX grade has effectively been replaced, while the former EX variant has been dropped altogether.

Visually, the Chery C5 receives some subtle changes with a redesigned grille and a reworked rear end. Boot space is now slightly larger at 370 litres, offering a bit more practicality. However, the most significant changes are under its skin. Chery has dropped the old torsion beam rear suspension in favour of a multi-link suspension setup. The CVT gearbox is also gone, replaced by a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, aiming to provide a more engaging and refined driving experience.

Power continues to come from the same 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 146 PS and 210 Nm, driving the front wheels.

Standard equipment for the Urban variant includes 17-inch alloy wheels, dual 10.25-inch displays for the infotainment system and instrument cluster, wired Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. There’s also acoustic front glass for improved cabin quietness.

On the safety front, all variants come equipped with 7 airbags and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features:

Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist (ACC)
Lane-keep assist (LKA)
Lane-following assist (LFA)
Blind-spot monitoring (BSM)
Rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking (RCTA)
Reversing camera

Stepping up to the Ultimate variant of the Chery C5 adds a more bling. This version comes with larger 18-inch wheels, red-painted brake calipers, and a powered tailgate. Inside, you get heated front seats with synthetic leather upholstery, an eight-speaker Sony audio system, dual-zone climate control, a wireless smartphone charger, and a sunroof. It also gains a 360-degree camera for added convenience.

Chery’s rebranding efforts plan to extend beyond the C5. The Omoda E5 electric SUV will soon be renamed to simply the E5, with specifications and pricing to be confirmed. This is part of a larger strategy to separate Chery’s different vehicle lines, with Omoda, Jaecoo, and potentially iCar forming distinct sub-brands within the Australian market.

In Malaysia, the outgoing Chery Omoda 5 is offered in two variants: C and H, both powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 156 PS and 230 Nm, paired with a CVT automatic transmission driving the front wheels.