The Omoda S5 1.5, producing 113 horsepower, is a compact sedan introduced by Omoda in April 2023. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the S5 range, it represents the brand’s initial foray into several international markets. The S5 itself is built upon Omoda’s dedicated platform, aiming to provide a modern and feature-rich vehicle at a competitive price point. This variant, with its continuously variable transmission (CVT), is designed to prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of driving over outright performance, targeting urban commuters and drivers seeking a comfortable daily driver.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Omoda |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | S5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (113 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm, 99.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 4000 rpm (101.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | E4G15C |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1386 kg (3055.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1745 kg (3847.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 359 kg (791.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 482 l (17.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal, 10.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 4644 mm (182.83 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Omoda S5 1.5 represents a key component of Omoda’s strategy to establish itself in the global compact sedan market. Introduced in April 2023, this variant is built on Omoda’s dedicated platform, designed to offer a blend of style, technology, and affordability. The S5 aims to appeal to a younger demographic, emphasizing modern design and connectivity features. The 1.5-liter engine paired with a CVT is positioned as the entry point to the S5 lineup, prioritizing fuel economy and smooth operation over high-performance driving. It’s primarily targeted towards markets where fuel efficiency and ease of use are highly valued.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Omoda S5 1.5 lies the E4G15C, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, a common setup for this class of vehicle, providing a balance between cost-effectiveness and efficiency. The engine produces 113 horsepower at 6150 rpm and 138 Nm (101.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further enhance fuel economy during city driving. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), chosen for its smooth operation and ability to keep the engine within its optimal power band. While CVTs are known for their efficiency, they sometimes receive criticism for their lack of a traditional stepped-gear feel.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Omoda S5 1.5 CVT is geared towards comfort and ease of use. The CVT transmission provides seamless acceleration, although it lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13.2 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle in this segment with this engine configuration. The CVT’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising. This contributes to a quiet cabin experience but can sometimes feel sluggish when attempting quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to potential higher-output variants (if offered), the 1.5L CVT model will offer a more relaxed and economical driving experience, sacrificing some performance in the process.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Omoda S5 1.5 typically comes standard with a range of features designed to appeal to modern car buyers. These often include air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels may add features such as alloy wheels, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and more advanced driver-assistance systems. Interior upholstery is generally cloth in the base trim, with options for leatherette or leather in higher grades. The dashboard layout is typically modern and minimalist, with a focus on the central touchscreen display.
Chassis & Braking
The Omoda S5 1.5 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup is common in compact sedans, offering a balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, offering light and easy steering feel. The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheels with 205/55 R16 tires, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Omoda S5 1.5 has been generally well-received as an affordable and stylish option in the compact sedan segment. Critics have praised its modern design and feature-rich interior, particularly considering its price point. However, some have noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the CVT transmission’s sometimes-uninspiring driving experience. Compared to other vehicles in its class, the S5 1.5 offers a competitive level of equipment and fuel economy. Its fuel consumption figures of 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) are in line with other similarly sized and powered sedans. Reliability data is still emerging, as the vehicle is relatively new to the market.
Legacy
As a relatively recent introduction, the long-term reliability of the Omoda S5 1.5 powertrain remains to be fully assessed. However, the engine architecture is based on proven technology, and the CVT transmission, while sometimes criticized, is generally reliable when properly maintained. In the used car market, the S5 1.5 is expected to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped compact sedan. Its modern design and features should help it retain its value over time. The success of this variant will likely play a crucial role in establishing Omoda as a significant player in the global automotive market.
