Omoda started as a sub-brand of Chinese automaker Chery, launched in 2022 to target younger, style-focused buyers. The brand made its debut with the Omoda 5, a compact SUV aimed at global markets including Australia. Its design leans heavily on sharp lines and a bold grille, setting it apart from more conservative competitors.
Chery positioned Omoda as a tech-forward brand with a focus on connectivity and safety. Early models featured digital displays, advanced driver aids and efficient turbo engines. The company has pushed for a consistent global identity, with the Omoda 5 quickly becoming its flagship in multiple regions.
Omoda arrived in Australia in 2023 as part of Chery’s return to the local market. It competes in the crowded small SUV segment against models from Japan, Korea and Europe. The brand’s growth will depend on how well it balances competitive pricing with long-term reliability and aftersales support. Omoda later became a standalone brand from Chery in Australia with the launch of the Omoda 9 mid-size SUV.