Omoda 7 Phev Super hybrid, preview test on Chinese roads: how the new SUV looks and drives

The Dht (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) intelligently manages power flows between the three units, allowing smooth transitions between electric, hybrid and pure thermal modes. The overall power output of the system reaches 347 horsepower (255 kW) and despite these figures, the car is not a lightning bolt, especially in pick-up.

The Omoda 7 Phev is equipped with an 18.3 kWh lithium-ion battery. This battery pack ensures a fully electric range of up to 100 km, according to values estimated in the urban Wltp cycle, placing it among the best in its class. Recharging can take place either in alternating current, up to 7.2 kW via a domestic wallbox or public infrastructure, with a full recharge in about 3-4 hours, or in direct current, up to 40 kW, allowing 30% to 80% recharging in just 20 minutes.

The system offers different operating modes that the driver can select as required. In Ev mode, the vehicle runs exclusively on electric power, while the automatic hybrid mode intelligently combines the two powertrains. There is also a Save mode to preserve the remaining battery charge for later use, and a Sport mode designed to maximise performance. The regenerative braking system, adjustable in several stages, allows energy recovery during slowing and braking, further improving overall efficiency.

The styling of the Omoda 7 is inspired by the taut, geometric lines of premium urban SUVs. The front features a large hexagonal grille with a diamond-patterned grille, flanked by full-LED light clusters with an L-shaped light signature and integrated daytime running lights. On some versions there is also Matrix LED technology, which modulates the beam according to the surrounding traffic.

The rear features an LED light band joining the headlights, increasing the visual perception of width. Aerodynamic details, 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels and a slightly sloping roof complete a muscular yet elegant aesthetic.

The Omoda 7 Phev is based on a multi-energy platform, designed to accommodate both conventional and electrified powertrains. The central arrangement of the battery pack helps lower the centre of gravity, improving stability and road dynamics. The chassis adopts a configuration with MacPherson front suspension and multilink rear suspension, designed to offer an effective compromise between comfort and driving precision. The vehicle is equipped with a full range of Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (Adas), including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking and traffic sign recognition.

On board, the cabin of the Omoda 7 Phev is distinguished by its technological and digital approach, starting with the 256 colours of ambient light that can be combined with the driving mode or the type of music being played. The dashboard houses two displays: a central 15.6-inch one and a 12.3-inch one for the driver.

The highlight of the dashboard, the one that once again gives the measure of the hi-tech originality of Chinese cars, is the main display which, with a touch gesture, moves electrically from the centre of the dashboard to in front of the passenger. A useless function, designed to impress? No, on long journeys it is also a useful solution for entertaining the passenger. Certainly not the usual setting.

The infotainment system, which uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 SoC, is Ota (Over-The-Air) upgradeable and supports major connectivity standards such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Convenient is the wireless smartphone charger with an impressive 50 watts. The on-board system allows real-time display of battery status, energy consumption, engine flows and regeneration. Via a dedicated app, the driver can monitor the state of charge, program recharging and preset the cabin climate control even remotely.

The new Chinese SUV, it must be said at once, is maniacally built and finished. Assembly is neat and precise. The quality of the materials is high. What's more, the Omoda 7 is fairly quiet, at least until you push on the gas, at which point, without too much verve, the thermal system intervenes with a decidedly unpleasant noise (like many hybrid cars). The verdict on roominess is also positive: we travelled with four in the marathon on Chinese roads and the Chinese SUV always proved comfortable, with flagship legroom.

Behind the wheel, the car behaves in a healthy manner, much better than other soft and swaying Chinese cars. Rolling and pitching are contained. The steering is good, while the brakes are effective in the final part of the pedal stroke and therefore not as modulable as on western cars.

Judgement suspended on Adas. The car used for the test, not intended for the European market, exhibited abrupt and erratic behaviour. This is an obvious software problem and the cars arriving between October and November, priced under 40,000 euros, should be in line with the manufacturer's standard.

Finally, the ergonomics. There are many controls accessible only from the touchscreen, including the Tesla-style rear-view mirror adjustment, which is unconvincing. Unoriginal are the steering wheel controls that, as happens in much Chinese production, seem to be taken from Tesla. Convenient is the Mercedes-style gear selector on the column, and the buttons on the centre console are easy to recognise.

All in all, the Omoda 7 Phev is a good choice, providing comfort and efficiency, and only finds its limitation in the still immature brand image.