The OMODA 9 is a plug-in hybrid SUV offering strong performance, a premium-feeling interior and extensive standard equipment at a competitive price. But how does it perform in everyday use?
In December 2025, Carwow content producer Tommy Allen began a six-month long-term test, using the OMODA 9 for daily commuting and filming assignments. His experience revealed plenty to like, alongside some frustrations with driver assistance, infotainment and ride comfort.
1. OMODA 9 Price and Interior
Tommy's test vehicle was the OMODA 9 Noble, with optional black paint, priced at £45,740 in the UK at the time. He found it around £7,000–£8,000 cheaper than entry-level Audi Q5 and BMW X3 models, while offering more standard equipment.
The cabin impressed him with soft-touch materials, metallic-finish controls and a premium feel. Highlights included heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 14-speaker Sony sound system, surround-view cameras, adaptive cruise control and automatic parking.
The camera system and audio quality were particular highlights, making the OMODA 9 an appealing option for buyers who value comfort and equipment.
2. OMODA 9 Real-World Fuel Economy
The OMODA 9 combines a petrol engine with electric drive, allowing shorter journeys to be completed using electric power when the battery is charged.
However, Tommy had no home charging access during his test. He recorded average fuel economy of around 40 mpg, based on his own driving experience.
Actual fuel consumption will vary depending on charging frequency, journey length, traffic and driving style. Drivers who can charge regularly may benefit more from the plug-in hybrid system, while those without convenient charging should consider their likely petrol consumption carefully.
3. OMODA 9 Performance and Driving Experience
With a reported 449 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain, the OMODA 9 delivers strong acceleration. During a Carwow fleet acceleration event, it completed the quarter-mile in 13.7 seconds.
Tommy appreciated its effortless power delivery, particularly when overtaking and joining faster traffic. However, he was less impressed with the suspension and steering.
He found the ride unsettled over some bumps and through corners, with noticeable body movement and limited steering feedback. This suggests that strong straight-line performance does not necessarily translate into equally composed handling.
4. OMODA 9 Driver Assistance Issues
One of Tommy's main concerns was the assisted steering system. During his test, it occasionally misinterpreted road markings and made unexpected steering corrections. The steering could also feel resistant when he tried to take control.
He eventually stopped using steering assistance, although conventional adaptive cruise control remained an alternative for maintaining speed and following distance.
These observations reflect his experience with the test vehicle rather than every OMODA 9. Nevertheless, they highlight why buyers should test driver assistance features themselves before purchasing.
5. OMODA 9 Infotainment and Everyday Usability
Despite its extensive technology, the OMODA 9's infotainment system was not always convenient.
Tommy found that accessing basic functions, such as seat heating, required navigating touchscreen menus. The system could respond slowly, while voice commands sometimes interrupted music playback. Another Carwow editor demonstrated that activating the heated seats could require five screen taps.
Tommy also found the driver attention monitoring system overly sensitive at times.
These issues show that a long list of features does not always guarantee an easy everyday experience. Buyers should check how quickly they can access frequently used controls during a test drive.
6. 2026 OMODA 9 Updates: Improved Ride Comfort?
The updated 2026 model-year OMODA 9 introduces changes intended to improve comfort and refinement.
According to OMODA UK's July 2026 announcement, the updated model features retuned suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC), designed to improve ride comfort and body control.
Other additions include front massage seats, expanded electric seat adjustment, a suede headlining and upgraded 6.6 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability.
These changes address some areas identified in Tommy's earlier test. However, a direct road test is still needed to establish how much the updated suspension improves the driving experience.
Buyers should also check the model year and specification of the vehicle they are considering.
7. OMODA 9 Pros and Cons
Pros
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Premium-feeling interior and extensive equipment
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Powerful 449 hp plug-in hybrid system
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High-quality Sony sound system
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Useful surround-view cameras and automatic parking
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Competitive pricing compared with some premium SUV rivals at the time
Cons
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Assisted steering did not inspire confidence during Tommy's test
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Some infotainment functions required too many screen taps
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Occasional touchscreen delays
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Suspension and steering feedback could be better
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Driver attention alerts sometimes became distracting
8. Is the OMODA 9 Worth Buying?
After six months of driving, Tommy still considered the OMODA 9 worth adding to a shortlist.
Its combination of performance, interior quality and standard equipment makes it an interesting alternative to more expensive premium SUVs. However, the infotainment system, assisted steering and ride comfort may not suit every driver.
The OMODA 9 may be a good choice if you want a spacious, powerful and well-equipped plug-in hybrid SUV and have convenient access to charging. If you prioritize precise handling, simple physical controls or low fuel consumption without regular charging, comparing alternatives is worthwhile.
Before buying, test the driver assistance systems, explore the touchscreen menus and drive on different road surfaces. If you are considering the 2026 model, evaluate the updated version rather than relying solely on reviews of the earlier vehicle.
Final Verdict
Tommy Allen's six-month OMODA 9 long-term review highlights a capable plug-in hybrid SUV with impressive power, a premium-feeling cabin and generous equipment.
Its everyday usability is less convincing in some areas, particularly assisted steering, infotainment and suspension behaviour. The 2026 updates aim to improve comfort and refinement, making the newer version worth considering separately.
Ultimately, the OMODA 9 offers plenty of value on paper, but a test drive is essential to decide whether its real-world driving experience meets your expectations.
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