The compact SUV market has been a battlefield of innovation, affordability, and style in recent years. With rising competition from Chinese automakers entering global markets, the 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX stands as a bold contender. Priced at an enticing $27,995 drive-away, Chery aims to deliver an SUV that combines affordability with modern technology and design.

However, the question remains: Can the Omoda 5 FX hold its ground against established rivals like the Haval Jolion, Hyundai Venue, and even its own siblings in the Chery lineup? As an automotive expert, I spent considerable time testing, analyzing, and experiencing the Omoda 5 FX firsthand. This review unpacks its strengths, weaknesses, and its real value in the competitive market.

Chery Omoda 5 FX: Price, Positioning, and Value

The most immediate draw of the 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX is its price tag. At $27,995 drive-away, it is a tempting proposition for buyers looking for a value-packed SUV. This price undercuts rivals while still offering a generous list of features and a bold design.

Chery, with its return to markets like Australia, has learned a few lessons. Affordability is a key strategy here, but Chery also backs its offering with a 7-year unlimited kilometer warranty and capped price servicing. While the $300 average service cost is attractive, the short 10,000 km intervals might raise concerns for buyers who clock heavy mileage.

When compared to competitors like the Haval Jolion, MG ZS, and Hyundai Venue, the Omoda 5 FX holds its ground with a strong value proposition. However, does this value extend beyond its price?

Exterior Design: Bold and Futuristic

The 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX immediately grabs attention with its striking exterior design. Chery has adopted a bold styling approach to make the FX stand out in the crowded SUV segment. At first glance, the massive front grille dominates the face, complemented by sleek headlamps and a sharply sculpted hood.

Unlike the higher Omoda 5 variants, the FX gets halogen headlights instead of LEDs, but it doesn’t take away much from its aesthetic appeal. The grille’s chrome highlights and the intricate mesh pattern give the car a futuristic vibe that younger buyers will appreciate. Adding to its street presence are 17-inch alloy wheels, which, while smaller than the higher trims’ 18-inch options, still look proportional to the FX’s silhouette.

At 4.4 meters in length, the Omoda 5 FX sits on the larger side of compact SUVs. This size translates to ample interior space, which we will explore later.

Chery has ensured that the rear design doesn’t lose its visual drama. The connected LED taillights, sporty rear bumper, and roof spoiler give the FX a modern, aggressive edge. While beauty is subjective, it is undeniable that the Omoda 5 FX brings a bold design statement that distinguishes it from conservative rivals like the Hyundai Venue.

Interior and Cabin Features: Surprising Tech at This Price

Step inside the 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX, and you are greeted with a cabin that feels far more premium than its price suggests. The design is modern and minimalistic, with Chery focusing heavily on technology to make the interior feel high-end.

The dashboard is dominated by two 10.25-inch screens – one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system. This setup adds sophistication to the cabin, a feature you’d typically expect in SUVs costing much more.

The infotainment screen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, both of which work seamlessly. However, satellite navigation is notably absent in this trim, which might be a dealbreaker for some buyers who rely on built-in maps.

The seats combine synthetic leather and fabric, offering a good balance between comfort and durability. The driver’s seat comes with power adjustments, a rare feature at this price point. Storage spaces are well-thought-out, with ample cupholders, door bins, and a large center console.

That said, cost-cutting measures are evident. The absence of a wireless charging pad and the use of hard plastics in certain areas are reminders of its budget-friendly positioning. Still, Chery deserves credit for delivering a cabin that punches well above its price point.

Rear Seat Comfort: Space with Compromises

The rear seat of the Omoda 5 FX continues its focus on practicality. Its larger dimensions translate to decent space for passengers. Thoughtful touches like rear air vents, USB ports, and a center armrest with cupholders enhance passenger comfort.

However, there are compromises. Taller passengers may find knee room tight, and the seats are slightly firm for extended journeys. Toe room is adequate, and headroom is decent for passengers under 6 feet tall.

For families, the rear seat will suffice, but adults on longer drives may feel constrained compared to rivals like the MG ZS or Toyota Corolla Cross.

Boot Space: Practical and Functional

The manual tailgate on the Chery Omoda 5 FX keeps things simple. The boot offers ample space for daily use, accommodating groceries, luggage, or strollers with ease.

For added versatility, the split-folding rear seats expand cargo capacity significantly. The inclusion of a temporary spare wheel is a practical touch for regions where long-distance driving is common.

Driving Experience: City Comfort with Limitations

City Performance

Under the hood, the 2024 Omoda 5 FX features a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with a CVT transmission. This combination delivers smooth, refined performance in urban environments. Light steering and a soft suspension make it well-suited for city driving.

Highway Performance

At higher speeds, the Omoda 5 FX reveals its limitations. The soft suspension struggles to keep the SUV planted, leading to noticeable body roll during cornering. Steering feedback feels vague, and the engine strains during overtakes and uphill climbs. While the CVT is smooth, it tends to rev high under heavy acceleration, producing noise.

Fuel Efficiency

While Chery’s claimed fuel efficiency is competitive, real-world tests showed slightly higher consumption. Buyers prioritizing efficiency may lean toward hybrid rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross.

Safety Features: Advanced but Intrusive

The Chery Omoda 5 FX earns a 5-star ANCAP safety rating with its suite of safety systems, including:

• Lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention monitoring
• Speed alerts
• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)

However, these systems can be overly intrusive, with constant alerts and corrections. The reversing camera and parking sensors, though, add practicality and ease to urban driving.

Final Verdict: Is the Chery Omoda 5 FX Worth It?

The 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX is a compelling option in the compact SUV market. At $27,995 drive-away, it delivers unmatched value with a bold design, tech-loaded interior, and generous warranty.

While driving dynamics and rear seat comfort have their compromises, the Omoda 5 FX is ideal for budget-conscious families and first-time SUV buyers prioritizing style and features.

Who Should Buy It? If city commuting, technology, and affordability are your priorities, the Chery Omoda 5 FX deserves serious consideration. For highway refinement or premium comfort, competitors like the Haval Jolion or MG ZS might edge ahead.

In short, the 2024 Chery Omoda 5 FX proves that budget-friendly SUVs can still deliver bold design and advanced features without breaking the bank.