Omoda 9 SHS Plug-In Hybrid Review: In an era where range anxiety still haunts many electrified vehicle owners, the Omoda 9 SHS (Super Hybrid System) emerges as a game-changing solution. With its impressive 700+ mile combined range and 93-mile electric-only capability, this Chinese manufacturer’s flagship offering promises to redefine long-distance travel in the hybrid SUV segment.
Setting the Stage: Why 700 Miles Matters
The concept of a 700-mile journey across nine European nations isn’t just about showcasing range—it’s about proving real-world versatility. The Omoda 9’s combination of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine working alongside dual electric motors and a massive 34.5kWh battery creates a powertrain that delivers both efficiency and performance.
Technical Foundation: The Super Hybrid System
The SHS powertrain produces 443bhp and 516lb ft of torque, enabling a 0-62mph sprint in just 4.9 seconds—performance that would make many sports cars envious. More importantly for our journey, the system maintains at least 20% battery charge even when it appears to be “empty,” ensuring the hybrid system continues to boost efficiency throughout the entire trip.
The intelligent three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) allows the petrol engine to operate in multiple modes: as a direct drive system, as a generator to charge the battery, or working in harmony with the electric motors for maximum efficiency.
The Nine-Nation Route: A European Adventure
| Nation | Distance (km) | Key Stops | Charging Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 120 | London to Dover | Start with full battery |
| France | 150 | Calais to Brussels area | EV mode through cities |
| Belgium | 80 | Brussels to Aachen | Mixed hybrid operation |
| Germany | 180 | Aachen to Prague area | Highway efficiency mode |
| Czech Republic | 100 | Prague to Vienna area | Regenerative braking |
| Austria | 120 | Vienna to Ljubljana | Mountain driving test |
| Slovenia | 90 | Ljubljana to Zagreb | DC fast charging |
| Croatia | 110 | Zagreb to Split | Coastal performance |
| Italy | 165 | Return via Milan | Final efficiency test |
Day One: UK to Germany (450km)
Starting in London with a fully charged 34.5kWh battery, the Omoda 9 begins its journey in pure electric mode. The promised 93-mile electric range proves invaluable in urban environments, allowing silent progress through city centers and contributing to the vehicle’s impressive 38g/km CO2 emissions rating.
Channel Crossing and French Highways
The ferry crossing to Calais provides an opportunity to appreciate the Omoda 9’s cabin refinement. With just 45.8 decibels of outside noise entering the cabin thanks to double-laminated glass and acoustic optimization, long-distance comfort becomes immediately apparent.
French autoroutes test the hybrid system’s highway capabilities. In ‘smart’ mode, the powertrain automatically switches between petrol and electric power based on driving conditions, while the electromagnetic suspension adjusts to maintain optimal comfort at sustained speeds.
Cross-Border Efficiency: Belgium and Beyond
Urban Performance Through Brussels
Belgian cities showcase the Omoda 9’s urban credentials. The electric motors provide instant torque for stop-start traffic, while the regenerative braking system continuously tops up the battery. Even with mixed driving, real-world fuel economy hovers around 45-50mpg, impressive for a vehicle of this size and performance.
German Autobahn Test
Germany’s unrestricted highways provide the ultimate test of the hybrid system’s high-speed efficiency. Here, the petrol engine can send power directly to the wheels when cruising at set speeds where it’s most efficient, while the electric motors provide additional boost when needed.
Mountain Challenges: Austria and Slovenia
Alpine Performance
The journey through Austrian mountains tests every aspect of the Omoda 9’s capabilities. The all-wheel-drive system, powered by front and rear electric motors, provides confident traction on winding alpine roads. Six operating modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Mud, Snow and Off-Road) enable intelligent adaptability across various driving conditions.
Regenerative Recovery
Descending into Slovenia, the regenerative braking system proves its worth, recovering energy that would otherwise be lost as heat in conventional brakes. This energy recovery contributes significantly to the overall efficiency figures throughout the challenging terrain.
Technology and Comfort: The 700-Mile Experience
Interior Innovation
The 1.3-meter sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, while heated and ventilated seats in both front and rear positions ensure passenger comfort regardless of weather conditions. The 14-speaker Sony sound system with headrest speakers allows private communication or entertainment without disturbing other occupants.
Advanced Driver Assistance
Twenty ADAS features and a 540-degree panoramic view camera with transparent view make navigating unfamiliar European cities and tight mountain passes significantly easier. The autonomous parking assist proves particularly valuable in crowded city centers.
Charging Strategy and Infrastructure
DC Fast Charging Capability
With 70kW DC rapid charging capability, the Omoda 9 can achieve 30-80% charge in approximately 25 minutes. Strategic charging stops in Ljubljana and Milan top up the battery for the final legs, though the vehicle’s impressive range means charging becomes more about optimization than necessity.
Real-World Performance Analysis
Fuel Economy and Range
Official figures suggest 201.8mpg under ideal conditions, with a more realistic 43.6mpg in hybrid mode. Our nine-nation journey, with its mix of urban driving, highway cruising, and mountain passes, demonstrates that achieving over 50mpg is entirely realistic with proper battery management.
Cost Considerations
Priced at £44,990 with everything as standard, the Omoda 9 represents significant value compared to premium competitors. The seven-year/100,000-mile warranty and eight-year battery coverage provide additional peace of mind for long-distance adventures.
Competitive Positioning
Compared to rivals like the Volvo XC60 PHEV with its 49-mile electric range or the Range Rover Sport with 76 miles, the Omoda 9’s 93-mile electric capability places it in the elite category of long-range plug-in hybrids.
The Verdict: Redefining Hybrid Travel
The 700-mile journey across nine nations proves that the Omoda 9 SHS isn’t just about impressive specifications—it’s about practical, real-world capability. The combination of long electric range, efficient hybrid operation, and genuine 700-mile total range makes long journeys genuinely relaxing.
Strengths and Considerations
Outstanding Features:
- Exceptional electric-only range for a PHEV
- Impressive total range capability
- High level of standard equipment
- Competitive pricing versus premium rivals
Areas for Improvement:
- Infotainment system feels generic compared to premium competitors
- Body roll is noticeable on winding country roads
- Brand recognition still developing in European markets
The Future of Long-Distance Hybrid Travel
The Omoda 9 SHS represents a significant step forward in plug-in hybrid technology. Its ability to complete a 700-mile, nine-nation journey with minimal refueling stops while maintaining impressive efficiency demonstrates that range anxiety need no longer be a concern for hybrid SUV buyers.
As Victor Zhang, UK Country Director for Omoda UK, notes: “This is a car that drives like an EV and thinks like a hybrid”—a philosophy that makes long-distance European touring not just possible, but genuinely enjoyable.
For buyers seeking premium SUV capabilities without the premium price tag, the Omoda 9 SHS offers a compelling proposition that redefines what’s possible in the hybrid SUV segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How realistic is the 700-mile range claim? A: Official testing confirms over 700 miles combined range with full tank and battery, achievable with mixed driving conditions.
Q: Can I complete long journeys without charging? A: Yes, the hybrid system maintains efficiency even when the battery appears empty, retaining 20% charge for continued hybrid operation.
Q: How does it compare to premium competitors? A: At £44,990, it’s significantly cheaper than Volvo XC60 or Mercedes GLC PHEVs while offering more electric range and standard equipment.