The Omoda C7 introduced itself with a form of futuristic presence that made me really feel as if I had been handed the keys to an idea automobile that escaped from an auto present stand. Its sharply sculpted exterior hints on the type of expertise hidden inside and, as I spent extra time with it, I discovered myself more and more impressed at how totally Omoda has packed innovation into this mannequin.
The second I eased into the motive force’s seat, I used to be greeted by a sweeping dual-screen structure, which stretches throughout the dashboard like a command centre. The high-resolution shows are crisp, responsive, and intuitive, offering clear info with none pointless muddle. The interface flows easily between screens, and the graphics really feel fashionable and properly thought of. I appreciated how logically all the things was laid out. Voice management can also be accessible though not at all times useful.
Omoda has targeted on effectivity with out compromising on a regular basis usability. The engine response feels measured and, though this isn’t a efficiency machine, the ability supply is predictable and refined. Technology additionally extends to how the C7 manages its drive modes, permitting me to toggle between Comfort, Eco, and Sport. Each mode modifications throttle response, steering weight, and transmission behaviour, giving the feeling of three personalities in a single car.
Safety expertise is one other space the place the C7 shines. The suite of driver help methods is in depth. The adaptive cruise management maintained a constant following distance throughout freeway driving, easing the monotony of lengthy stretches. Lane-keeping help gently nudged the car again into place at any time when I drifted, whereas the ahead collision warning stood able to alert me of any sudden obstacles. Blind-spot monitoring proved significantly useful in dense Johannesburg site visitors, the place the Checkers Sixty60 bikes and taxis appear as if stealth plane. The mixture of sensors, cameras, and software program makes the C7 really feel way more premium than its badge could recommend.
The infotainment system helps straightforward smartphone integration, and the wi-fi charging pad didn’t miss a beat with its cooling system. My telephone remained firmly in place, and the charging price was fast. There are a number of USB-C ports accessible, making certain that everybody is saved powered on longer journeys. Audio high quality from the multi-speaker system is spectacular, with readability that held up even once I turned the quantity barely greater than obligatory.
One of essentially the most spectacular items of expertise is the 360-degree digital camera system. It gives a transparent chook’s-eye view, making tight parking situations significantly much less anxious. Even in dim mild, the system offered crisp visible suggestions, which I discovered genuinely useful in avoiding the errant wheelie bin or swiftly deserted purchasing trolley.
*Pricing for the Omoda C7 begins at R539,900.
* Sheryl Goldstuck is normal supervisor of World Wide Worx and editor of GadgetWheels. Follow her on Bluesky on @crazycatbuzz.bsky.social.