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First Drive: Omoda 7 Targets UK Buyers With Low-Price PHEV, Mixed Ride

A first UK test finds keen pricing, generous equipment and plenty of space, with ride quality trailing class leaders.

Overview

  • The plug-in hybrid is priced at £32,000 in Knight trim and £35,000 for Noble, with a petrol-only Knight due later this year at £29,915.
  • Omoda claims up to 56 miles of electric-only range for the PHEV, outstretching some pricier rivals such as the Kia Sportage PHEV by about 10 miles.
  • On the road the SUV is easy to drive with light steering, though testers report a firm low-speed ride and wallowy handling on faster, twisty roads.
  • The cabin features a 15.6-inch touchscreen, improved infotainment usability, less intrusive driver aids, wireless phone charging and, on Noble, a 12-speaker Sony system.
  • Space is a selling point with room for three in the rear and a boot quoted at 590 litres in the PHEV (639 litres for the petrol), while five exterior colours are offered.