Tuesday, September 24, 2024

JAECOO Malaysia previews the upcoming 2025 OMODA C9 SUV - Coupe SUV styling, a very premium feeling cabin and a 2.0liter turbocharged 2wd or AWD variants estimated to be under RM200K, it is incredible

 


JAECOO Malaysia has just previewed the OMODA C9 (C9) SUV. This very premium looking and feeling SUV is planned to be launched in December of this year, and after looking at it at the preview today, this C9 should shake-up the D-segment SUV market with its engine performance, safety technology, creature comforts and signature competitive pricing strategy. JAECOO Malaysia aim to price even the full spec C9 under RM200,000, and I believe, many other brands that have a D segment SUV in and around the RM150,000 to RM225,000 price range will be sweating a little.


The C9 combines the looks of something like a Lexus as well as a Range Rover SUV with a lower slung SUV Coupe styling. This is impressive as you actually get all that road presence you need.

Inside, you get a cabin that mimics the style of a Mercedes-Benz AMG GT with switchgear that feels a little bit more solid than one. This is incredible and when you add the fact that you have a 2.0liter turbocharged petrol engine which makes 257hp/400Nm torque, 2 wheel drive or All-wheel drive, CDC, or Continuous Damping Control shock absorbers for ride and handling (we have to test this first) and even a 540 degree camera for parking speeds, the C9 is an incredible proposition (for the moment, from what has been shown to us of course).


You add the large infotainment screen, nappa leather, many cubby holes for storage and a panoramic sunroof as notable features, not many brands on sale today can actually touch it in what is offered here in Malaysia today. So far, in terms of material feel, equipment levels, design, not many can match this at the moment. I actually am looking forward to its launch in December.

The main reason for this extremely competitive price is the fact that JAECOO have stated that the SUV coupe will be assembled at the JAECOO plant in Shah Alam from the start. They have stated that they have studied the Malaysian customer preferences and intends to fulfil the market’s desire for a premium sporty SUV in the sub-RM200K segment. But, its darn premium. Quite a feat and a good way to strengthen brand presence here.

Now, the only other question we asked at the preview aside from being wowed by the C9, was why is this OMODA C9 not a Chery Omoda and sold by Chery Malaysia outlets? Well, Chery Malaysia stated that the C9 was designed as a premium vehicle from the outset, so, here in Malaysia, as JAECOO is the brand that they use to sell and market premium off-road SUVs, it makes more sense for them to sell it at JAECOO outlets. So all sales and aftersales of the C9 will be through JAECOO here.

A little confusing but not by much as even if someone went to a Chery outlet to see the C9, they will in the end head over to the nearest JAECOO dealership. A small difference, but one must also note that with the premium branding, it requires a premium dealership experience. So having a premium dealership already set up as JAECOO will make this easier give customers that experience. Plus, it also gives Jaecoo Malaysia another premium product to sell as aside from the J7, this is it. That said, this C9 looks so premium that you could actually sell it in a Jaguar Land Rover outlet and people may buy it from there.


 “Ahead of our official launch in December, we are looking forward to prepare the market for the introduction of the OMODA C9. We take pride in understanding the market’s needs and preferences. We believe the C9 fulfils the market’s desire for a new exploration of attainable luxury,” said Chery Corporate Malaysia Executive Vice President, Leo Chen.

Elaborating on the brand’s strategy with the C9, JAECOO Malaysia Vice President, Emily Lek, said, “Backed by independent innovation, advanced technology, and commitment to quality, JAECOO is focused on providing premium SUVs to customers. We started with the J7, and the response from the Malaysian market continues to be exceptional.  To further excite the market, JAECOO is launching the C9, the First Premium Off-road SUV Coupe in Southeast Asia, with 2WD and AWD variants. The C9 carries all the traits of the JAECOO DNA, redefined attainable luxury and refined urban appeal.

[From left] Chery Auto Malaysia, Senior Manager, Afiq Zabani, and JAECOO Malaysia Vice President, Emily Lek, unveiling the first OMODA C9 Premium SUV Coupe in Malaysia and Southeast Asia set to debut in December this year.

The C9 compliments our growing portfolio of SUVs and we are excited to introduce it to the market at a competitive price point set below RM200,000. The C9 is officially open for registration of interest with the C9 Two-wheel drive (2WD) estimated at MYR185,000 and the C9 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) estimated at MYR195,000. Ahead of our official launch in December, we are excited to share that the public will have the opportunity to experience the C9 at our upcoming roadshows scheduled for the end of October,” Lek added.

PRODUCT SUMMARY – 2025 OMODA C9 SUV

Futuristic Crossover Exterior


The C9 features a distinct diamond matrix air intake grille and daytime running lights emulating the sigma design. In addition to its intelligent adaptive control LED headlights, the SUV is fitted with an acoustic windshield for reduced noise levels inside the vehicle, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. The C9 also features a keyless door entry with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology alongside a walkaway locking system and flush door handles.  

It measures at 1,671mm in height, 1,920mm in width, and 4,775mm in length, which gives drivers a desirable and commanding driving position. The C9 has a wheelbase measuring at 2,800mm and a ground clearance of 165mm which enables it to wade through water at a maximum depth of 450mm. Sporting R20 multi-blade alloy rims and 245/50 high performance Michelin tyres, the C9 can adapt to various driving conditions owing to its all-round adaptive suspension, supported by MacPherson  struts suspension in the front and a rear multilink suspension. 


Under the bonnet, the heart of the C9 is powered by a 2.0 TGDI inline four-cylinder petrol engine capable of producing 257 Hp and 400Nm of torque. Available in two variants, the C9 two-wheel-drive (2WD) variant features three drive modes, while the All-wheel-drive (AWD) variant features seven drive modes to navigate urban and offroad terrains. The rear boot has a 660 litre to 1,783 litre capacity, generous storage space for active lifestyles, be it the city, sports junkies or adventure seekers. 

Advanced Innovation and Safety

The C9 continues to emphasise safety as a forefront feature particularly with its Continuous Damping Control (CDC). This key feature enhances premium comfort by adapting real time road conditions with adjustments made by the system via individual sensors in milliseconds. The C9 also features a level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Door Opening Warning (DOW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Emergency Lane Keep Assist (ELKA). 

For added peace of mind, the C9’s body is made of 85% high strength steel and is equipped with 8  airbags. 

Exploring Attainable Luxury 


Inside, drivers and passengers are welcomed by the active rhythmatic ambient lighting and will immediately notice the C9’s 24.6inch (624.84mm) single panel HD display. The spacious centre console is equipped with air vents to keep important items in storage cool and enables wireless mobile charging (50W). The three zone air conditioning system is also embedded with a fragrance and air quality system that elevates comfort and luxury within the cabin. 

The console and dashboard are wrapped in premium soft touch leather for a luxurious finish. Notable features in the C9 driver’s seat include steering wheel paddle shifters, a windscreen heads-up display and transmission gear selector for an intuitive driving experience. The driver’s dashboard is equipped with a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) and an embedded navigation feature.

The C9’s built-in digital video recorder (DVR) enables drivers to gain a clearer view of obstacles and blind spots using the 540-degree around view monitor. The driver’s seat is electric powered with eight adjustable positions and a driver memory seat capacity for six positions. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated front seats. 

For optimal entertainment, the AWD variant is equipped with 14 surround sound speakers throughout the C9 and personalised speakers embedded in the driver’s seat. This unique feature is tailored to offer a driver-centric audio experience. 

Head over to www.jaecoo.com.my or follow OMODA Malaysia social platforms for more details.







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