The Australian SUV market has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the arrival of compelling Chinese offerings that combine affordability with impressive feature lists. Two standout contenders in this space are the Chery Omoda 5 and the Haval Jolion, both vying for the attention of budget-conscious Aussie buyers.
These newcomers have shaken up what buyers can expect at their price points. No longer do budget SUVs mean sparse features and compromised quality.
Pricing Breakdown: Value Proposition
Chery Omoda 5 Pricing
The Chery Omoda 5 lineup starts at a competitive $30,990 drive-away for the base BX variant, representing excellent value following recent price reductions. This entry-level model undercuts many established rivals while offering an impressive standard equipment list.
Moving up the range, the more luxurious EX variant commands $33,990 drive-away, adding premium features without breaking the bank. For those seeking more power, the GT models start around $34,740 with a more potent engine option.
Haval Jolion Pricing
The Haval Jolion counters with an even more aggressive starting price of $24,990 drive-away for the Premium variant, making it one of the most affordable small SUVs on the Australian market. This price advantage is a major selling point for extremely budget-conscious shoppers.
Mid-tier variants like the Lux command around $27,990, while the top-spec Ultra will set you back approximately $30,990. The Hybrid variants command a premium, starting from $35,990 for the Ultra Hybrid model.
Exterior Design and Dimensions: Style Statement
Chery Omoda 5 Styling
The Omoda 5 embraces a bold, futuristic aesthetic that turns heads on Australian roads. Its distinctive front fascia features a diamond-pattern grille with gradient elements creating a striking 3D effect.
The sleek silhouette is complemented by T-shaped LED daytime running lights and staggered matrix tail lights that make a strong visual statement. Measuring 4400mm long, 1830mm wide, and 1588mm tall, it sits in a similar size bracket to the Mazda CX-30.
Haval Jolion Styling
The Jolion adopts a more conventional yet contemporary SUV design with clean lines and modern touches. Recent updates have given the Hybrid models a distinctive look with sportier exterior styling to differentiate them from petrol variants.
Dimension-wise, the Jolion measures between 4470-4472mm long, 1874-1898mm wide, and 1581-1625mm tall, making it slightly larger than the Omoda 5. This translates to a slightly more spacious cabin overall.
Interior and Practicality: Living Space
Chery Omoda 5 Interior
Step inside the Omoda 5 and you’re greeted by a tech-forward cabin dominated by dual 10.25-inch screens housed in a sleek panel. The minimalist approach feels premium and contemporary.
Boot space is generous at 360 liters, expanding to 1075 liters with seats folded. Rear passenger space is adequate for the class, with the 2630mm wheelbase providing reasonable legroom for adults.
Haval Jolion Interior
The Jolion impresses with its spacious interior that belies its external dimensions. The cabin design prioritizes practicality with thoughtful storage solutions and comfortable seating for five adults.
Cargo capacity starts at 255 liters but expands to a capacious 1133 liters with seats folded, offering slightly more overall storage flexibility than the Omoda 5. The Jolion’s slightly longer wheelbase translates to marginally better rear legroom.
Performance and Drivetrains: Power Delivery
Chery Omoda 5 Engines
The standard Omoda 5 models feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 108kW of power and 210Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. This provides adequate urban performance for daily commuting.
Higher-spec GT variants receive a more spirited 1.6-liter turbo producing 137kW and 275Nm, offering notably better acceleration and overtaking capability. Additionally, the all-electric Omoda E5 variant delivers impressive 430km range for those looking to go emissions-free.
Haval Jolion Powertrains
The Jolion’s base petrol models utilize a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine generating 110kW and 220Nm, closely matching the Omoda 5’s standard output. A sportier tune of this engine offering 130kW and 260Nm is available in some variants.
The Jolion’s trump card is its hybrid powertrain option, combining a petrol engine with electric motors to produce 139kW and 375Nm while delivering significantly better fuel economy of around 5.1L/100km compared to the standard petrol’s 8.1L/100km.
Technology and Features: Digital Experience
Chery Omoda 5 Tech
The Omoda 5 impresses with its comprehensive tech package, starting with the twin 10.25-inch displays for infotainment and driver information. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and a voice command function.
Even the base model comes loaded with wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker Sony audio system. Higher grades add features like a power tailgate and additional comfort amenities.
Haval Jolion Technology
Not to be outdone, the Jolion offers similarly impressive tech credentials with a large central touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a digital instrument cluster on higher grades.
The Jolion includes thoughtful tech touches like ambient lighting and multiple USB ports. Higher specs add luxuries like a panoramic sunroof, which creates an airy, spacious feel in the cabin that’s particularly appreciated by rear passengers.
Safety Features: Protection Package
Chery Omoda 5 Safety
Safety is a strong point for the Omoda 5, which boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Standard safety equipment includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
The Omoda 5 features seven airbags throughout the cabin and includes rear cross-traffic alert and 360-degree cameras on higher trim levels, making it one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its class for safety.
Haval Jolion Safety
The Jolion matches the Omoda 5 with its own five-star ANCAP rating and comprehensive safety suite. It features a similar array of driver assistance technologies including autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
With seven airbags and advanced driver assistance systems standard across the range, the Jolion ensures peace of mind for families prioritizing safety in their vehicle choice.
Ownership Costs and Warranty: Long-term Value
Chery Omoda 5 Ownership
Chery offers a standout 7-year unlimited kilometer warranty with the Omoda 5, demonstrating confidence in their product. This is complemented by seven years of roadside assistance and a seven-year capped price servicing plan.
Fuel economy for the standard 1.5T engine is rated at 6.9L/100km, which is reasonable for the class but not class-leading. The electric E5 variant eliminates fuel costs entirely, though at a higher purchase price.
Haval Jolion Ownership
GWM offers a competitive 7-year, unlimited kilometer warranty for the Jolion as well, putting it on par with the Omoda 5 for long-term coverage. Roadside assistance is provided for five years.
Where the Jolion potentially edges ahead is with its hybrid variant’s superior fuel economy of 5.1L/100km, potentially saving owners significant money at the pump over the vehicle’s lifetime.
Driving Experience: Road Manners
Chery Omoda 5 Driving
On the road, the Omoda 5 delivers a comfortable and composed ride that handles Australian urban environments confidently. The suspension setup effectively absorbs road imperfections without feeling overly soft.
Steering is light enough for easy maneuvering in tight spaces, though some drivers might prefer more feedback at highway speeds. The GT variants with the larger engine provide a more engaging driving experience with better response.
Haval Jolion Driving
The Jolion delivers a similarly comfortable urban driving experience with light controls and good visibility. The hybrid variant offers smooth transitions between electric and petrol power, making for refined progress.
Some testers note that the Jolion’s suspension tuning is slightly firmer than the Omoda 5, which improves handling but can make rough roads more noticeable. The hybrid’s additional torque makes for easier overtaking maneuvers.
Buyer’s Verdict: Which One Wins?
Choose the Chery Omoda 5 if:
- You prioritize bold, distinctive styling
- You want the electric E5 option
- You value the more powerful GT variants
- You prefer a slightly more tech-focused interior
- Boot space with seats up is more important to you
Choose the Haval Jolion if:
- Absolute lowest entry price is your priority
- You want the excellent hybrid powertrain option
- You need maximum cargo space with seats folded
- You value a slightly larger overall footprint
- You prefer a panoramic sunroof option
Budget SUVs Without Compromise
Both the Chery Omoda 5 and Haval Jolion represent remarkable value propositions in the Australian small SUV market. They deliver features, safety, and warranty coverage that would have been unthinkable at their price points just a few years ago.
The Omoda 5 edges ahead with its striking design and slightly more premium-feeling interior, while the Jolion counters with an even more competitive starting price and excellent hybrid option.
Ultimately, both vehicles prove that budget-conscious Aussie buyers no longer need to make significant compromises when shopping for an affordable SUV. Your choice will likely come down to personal preference, styling, and whether the hybrid powertrain is important to your needs.
FAQs
Is the Chery Omoda 5 reliable?
The Omoda 5 is still relatively new to Australia, but Chery’s confidence is demonstrated by their comprehensive 7-year warranty.
Does the Haval Jolion come with Apple CarPlay?
Yes, all Jolion models include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Which has better fuel economy? The Haval Jolion Hybrid is significantly more fuel-efficient at 5.1L/100km compared to the petrol Omoda 5’s 6.9L/100km.
Do both vehicles have 5-star safety ratings?
Yes, both the Chery Omoda 5 and Haval Jolion have achieved 5-star ANCAP safety ratings.
Are parts readily available for these Chinese brands?
Both manufacturers have established dealer networks across Australia to support parts and service requirements.
Which has more cargo space?
The Haval Jolion offers slightly more maximum cargo space with seats folded (1133L vs 1075L), though the Omoda 5 has more space with seats up.
Do they offer all-wheel drive?
The Omoda 5 GT offers AWD options, while the standard Jolion range is front-wheel drive only.
How often do they need servicing?
Both vehicles have similar service intervals. Check with dealers for specific requirements.
Can I get an electric version?
Chery offers the all-electric Omoda E5 with 430km range, while Haval currently only offers hybrid options.
Which holds its value better?
As relatively new models to Australia, long-term resale data is still developing for both vehicles.