Omoda 4: new entry-level model features 218 hp and a range of 465 km

Omoda will expand its lineup in the Netherlands at the beginning of 2027 with the all-electric Omoda 4. This strikingly designed SUV will become the Chinese brand’s new entry-level model. With 218 horsepower, a range of up to 465 kilometers, and a comprehensive range of features, it seems to have strong potential. Only the price is still unknown.

The Omoda 4 is meant to drive further growth for the brand

Omoda and its sister brand Jaecoo have only been operating in the Netherlands for a short time, but they are rapidly expanding their product range. While the larger Omoda 5 will soon undergo a major refresh, a smaller model is already in the works. The Omoda 4 is aimed at drivers looking for a compact electric SUV who don’t want to settle for modest engine power or a short range.

Notably, Omoda positions the new SUV as a model developed specifically for Europe. The European development center of its parent company, Chery, in Raunheim, Germany, near Frankfurt, played a role in this process. This doesn’t mean the car was entirely designed or built in Europe, but it does mean that European drivers’ preferences were taken into account during development.

The Omoda 4 isn’t entirely new, by the way. The model was introduced in China earlier this year before making its debut in Europe. Now, the key technical specifications for the Netherlands are also available.

Sharp lines and a notable number of angles

With its appearance, the Omoda 4 clearly aims to stand out from typical compact SUVs. The body features sharp folds, bold angles, and prominent wheel arches. The narrow headlights at the front and lightning-shaped taillights enhance this distinctive character. Omoda refers to its design language as MECHA, drawing inspiration from the world of futuristic machines and sports cars.

The Omoda 4 is 4.42 meters long, 1.86 meters wide, and 1.57 meters high. It is roughly the same length as the original Omoda 5 but 13 centimeters shorter than the updated version also on its way to the Netherlands. Its wheelbase of 2.70 meters is even 7 centimeters longer than that of the new Omoda 5, which could be advantageous for interior space.

Although Omoda positions itself as a newcomer in the B-SUV segment, its dimensions are quite generous. In practice, this means it will also compete with larger electric crossovers. The Kia EV3, Peugeot E-2008, and Skoda Elroq are among the models buyers will likely compare it to.

A digital interior with sporty touches

Even inside, Omoda opts for a distinctive design. Behind the flat steering wheel lies an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel. The centrally located 13.2-inch touchscreen serves as the main control point for infotainment, climate control, and various vehicle functions.

Notable features include a carbon look finish, a center console positioned toward the driver, and a start button located under a cover. The latter is reminiscent of sports cars, though in an electric family car it’s mostly a novelty.

Through a smartphone app, drivers can control various vehicle functions remotely. This includes checking the charging level, tire pressure, and interior temperature. They can also pre-activate the climate control and, if available, seat and steering wheel heating.

According to the preliminary specifications, the trunk offers more than 400 liters of space. With the rear seats folded down, this increases to over 1,100 liters. This suggests the Omoda 4 is practical enough as a family car as well, though we still need to evaluate the actual space in the rear seats.

Omoda 4 electric: 218 hp and 465 kilometers range

The Dutch Omoda 4 will come with an all-electric powertrain. A 160 kW (218 hp) electric motor producing 275 Nm of torque drives the front wheels. According to preliminary factory figures, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Its top speed is 172 km/h. These are solid performance figures for a car positioned as an entry-level model.

The LFP battery pack has a capacity of 67 kWh, allowing Omoda to expect a WLTP range of 465 kilometers. This is even more than the 430 kilometers claimed for the larger Omoda 5 on paper. However, these figures still need to be finalized during European type approval.

Fast charging is possible at up to 120 kW. This is not an exceptionally high power level, especially for an electric car that will not hit the market until 2027. Omoda has not yet specified an official charging time. With a regular charging station, the Omoda 4 can be charged using its standard 11 kW three-phase onboard charger.

Many luxuries, but not everything standard

The Omoda 4 also comes equipped with a wide range of features. Depending on the version, electrically adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats are available. Additionally, the manufacturer mentions a panoramic glass roof, tinted rear windows, an electrically operated trunk lid, and a 50-watt wireless smartphone charger.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available. For safety, there are eighteen driving assistance systems, along with a 540-degree camera system. The latter combines camera images around the vehicle with a virtual view of the area under the chassis.

It is not yet known which features will be standard. This distinction is important, as it is the balance between price and equipment that will determine how attractive the Omoda 4 ultimately becomes.

The price of the Omoda 4 is decisive

The Omoda 4 is expected to arrive in the Netherlands in the first quarter of 2027, becoming the brand’s new entry-level model. This will further expand Omoda’s electric lineup, as the updated Omoda 5 will also be launched by the end of 2026. Both models will be available through Omoda and Jaecoo’s rapidly growing dealer network, which now counts 28 sales locations in the Netherlands.

The starting price in the Netherlands has not been announced, nor have the final specifications. It is clear, however, that the Netherlands will only receive the electric Omoda 4, while hybrid versions will also be available in other European countries according to the German model information.

With 218 horsepower, a range of 465 kilometers, and a striking design, the Omoda 4 seems to have plenty to offer on paper. But as a new entry-level model, it will need to convince primarily through its price. Competition from models like the Kia EV3, Peugeot E-2008, and Skoda Elroq is fierce. Therefore, how attractive the Omoda 4 truly is depends not only on its features but especially on the price Omoda will charge for them.

Text: Marc Verweij