If you have been following motoring media for the past two years, you’ve probably heard that a new lifestyle Chinese brand was entering the Philippine market. From PR after PR to an auto show and media trip, it seemed the brand (or brands) wouldn’t ever reach our shores.
Now, we can officially report that Omoda and Jaecoo (formally handled by Omoda & Jaecoo Philippines) have finally launched their operations in the country with a fashion spectacle at the BGC Arts Center. Prior to this, we were given access to drive OJP’s latest selection at Batangas Racing Circuit.
Let’s start with the initial poster child of the brand’s launch, which comes in the form of the Omoda C5 and E5. We were already acquainted with this compact crossover through its preview photos, safety rating, and futuristic design that warranted a sci-fi trailer.
We got to experience two flavors of the same body. The C5 has a conventional 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine producing 154hp and 230Nm, mated to a CVT. The media was invited to test its straight-line and braking powers.
Omoda C5
- Lifestyle – P998,000
- Comfort – P1,159,000
- Premium – P1,279,000
On the electric side, the E5 carries a 61kWh battery pack to zoom at 201hp and 340Nm. While the 430km range wasn’t the focus of a track-day event, its power delivery in the slalom sections showed its prowess as an urban commuter.
Omoda E5
- Premium – P1,699,000
Both models share similar interior features, especially with a pair of screens for the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system. However, the C5 has two 10.25-inch screens, while the E5’s is 12.3-inch.
As for the Jaecoo marque, the EJ6 will be the first model to hit showrooms. Touted as the first “electric and boxy SUV” in the local market, its 69.77kWh battery delivers 275hp and 385Nm ready for the roughest terrain, like in the muddy pit that we experienced.
The intelligent four-wheel-drive (IWD) system brought traction when needed, even running on 19-inch wheels. The cube-like cabin comfortably seated us while we plowed through the obstacle course and easily corrected along the path.
Jaecoo EJ6
- RWD – P1,649,000
- AWD – P1,799,000
As for what is in store for the company, the Jaecoo J7 SHS was previewed but would join the lineup in the coming months. After the constant teases and previews, we can all breathe easier that the hype for the two brands has finally paid off.
Now, it’s a matter of whether or not Omoda and Jaecoo can maintain customers and their ecosystem to prove how serious they are in the market.
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