Another thing to keep an eye out for this year is the introduction of more Chinese brands in our local market. One of these brands is Omoda, which is actually a sub-brand under Chery Automobile that is aimed at the younger generation (or “young trendsetters,” as the manufacturer puts it).

If this confuses you, no, they will not be entering the market under the same distributor as Chery, which is United Asia Automotive Group Inc.

An executive from Omoda China told VISOR that they are still in negotiations with the brand’s distributor, with plans for a formal launch in October this year. If everything goes right, we could see them enter much sooner.

The first vehicle to be introduced to the Philippines is the Omoda 5 crossover, with two more Omoda vehicles pegged to arrive after.

No, this vehicle will not be sporting any Chery badging at all. The executive told us they will be coming in as an “independent brand.”

This futuristic fastback crossover sports a unique design from the “Art in Motion” concept that is just as nice to look at as it is aerodynamic. It has distinctive features such as the frameless diamond grille, the two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, and the sleek LED lighting. It measures 4,400mm long, 1,830mm wide, and 1,588mm tall, placing it firmly within the compact crossover territory.

Expect the cabin to be fully featured as it is sporty, with such amenities as ambient lighting, sport seats, dual 10.25-inch screens with smartphone integration (both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), wireless phone charging, and other advanced driver aids like a 360° camera.

It can comfortably seat five adults thanks to its wheelbase of 2,630mm, and has a maximum cargo capacity of 360L.

Finally, it will be powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged in-line-four engine mated to a CVT, with 145hp and 230Nm, all sent to the front wheels.

The Omoda 5 will potentially be offered in these colors: Aviation Silver White, Phantom Gray, Vanilla Blue, Carbon Crystal Black, and Midnight Blue. And the best part about the whole package? The brand plans to introduce it at a price point under P1.5 million.

The industry, needless to say, is getting more and more interesting.