In a bold move aimed at capturing the youthful European automotive market, the Chinese brand Omoda has unveiled its latest compact crossover, the Omoda 3, during the annual Omoda&Jaecoo convention in Wuhu. This announcement marks a significant step for the brand, as it seeks to establish a foothold in the competitive B-SUV segment.
The Omoda 3, measuring 4.20 meters in length, boasts an aggressive design that combines elements of Japanese mecha aesthetics with inspirations from high-performance supercars like Lamborghini. The vehicle features sharp headlights and a sculpted bumper that echo the fierce lines typical of Sant'Agata Bolognese, while its sculpted sides and customizable rear lighting add to its sporty appeal.
Inside, Omoda promises a state-of-the-art digital cockpit. The interior is characterized by a minimalist design dominated by a vertical central screen, complemented by an LED strip that envelops the cabin. Among its innovative features is a gaming platform tailored for enthusiasts, and a unique ignition button shielded by a flip cover, reminiscent of those found in racing Lamborghinis.
Set to launch in Europe by the end of 2025, the Omoda 3 is expected to be priced between 20,000 and 30,000 euros, depending on the chosen powertrain and trim level. According to industry insiders, the Omoda 3 will be available in three primary variants: a gasoline engine, an electric model, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option.
The gasoline version is rumored to feature a 1.6 Turbo engine producing 197 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, paired with either a CVT or dual-clutch automatic transmission. Interestingly, there are speculations that a GPL variant may also be offered in Italy, mirroring the offerings of its larger sibling, the Omoda 5.
For those leaning towards electric, the Omoda 3 could house a 204-horsepower engine powered by 61 kWh LFP batteries, with an estimated range of 450-500 km based on the CLTC cycle, similar to the Omoda E5. The Super Hybrid variant is particularly intriguing, potentially combining a 1.5 turbo gasoline engine with an electric motor for a total output of around 245 horsepower and an electric-only range of approximately 100 km WLTP.
"We wanted to express the brand's identity in a sharper way," said Shawn Xu, CEO of Omoda and Jaecoo, highlighting the ambitious design direction of the Omoda 3. The futuristic design aims to convey a technological image, akin to a product that has come to life through artificial intelligence, according to project director Roy Xie.
As part of its strategy to expand its presence in European markets, Omoda has set ambitious goals. By 2030, the brand aims to be operational in 100 markets and to sell one million vehicles annually under the Omoda and Jaecoo brands. "The Omoda 3 will be central to increasing our volumes," Xu added, emphasizing the significance of this model in their growth strategy.
The Omoda 3's introduction is timely, as the European automotive market continues to shift towards electrification while still favoring compact SUVs. With its striking design, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, Omoda is poised to capture a significant share of this evolving market.
As the technical specifications for the Omoda 3 are set to be officially released in October 2025, the anticipation surrounding this vehicle continues to build. With its unique blend of style and technology, the Omoda 3 may well become a game-changer in the compact crossover segment.
In conclusion, Omoda's strategic launch of the Omoda 3 not only reflects the brand's commitment to innovation and design but also its understanding of the market dynamics in Europe. As it prepares to enter a competitive landscape, all eyes will be on how this new model performs against established rivals.
