The Omoda C9 stands as the flagship model in Omoda’s line-up, targeting urban fashion enthusiasts with its blend of luxury and innovative design. Launched in October 2024, the C9 marked a significant shift for the brand, showcasing its capability to produce high-end SUVs, distinguishing it from the more budget-friendly C5 model. But as prospective buyers consider the C9, one pressing question arises: is it costly to maintain over the long term compared to its more affordable counterparts? We took a closer look at ownership costs to find out.

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Warranty and Service Plans

Omoda South Africa backs the C9 with a robust warranty: a 7-year or 200,000 km coverage, whichever comes first. This warranty ensures that, under normal conditions, the vehicle is free from defects in material and craftsmanship. However, like most warranties, it comes with conditions and exclusions that are detailed in the owner’s manual.

The brand also offers an extensive 7-year drivetrain warranty, capped at 1,000,000 km for the first owner, again subject to the terms found in the manual. In terms of servicing, buyers benefit from a 7-year or 100,000 km service plan, with maintenance intervals set at every 15,000 km.

Breakdown of Omoda C9 Ownership Costs

To help prospective buyers gauge the affordability of maintaining the Omoda C9, here is a detailed breakdown of the ownership costs:

Minor Service Costs: Between R4,000 and R4,500
Major Service Costs (e.g., at 120,000 km): R7,500 to R8,800
Fuel Costs: Approximately R20.05 per litre; a full 65-litre tank costs around R1,300, providing an estimated range of 600 km.
Warranty: 7 years or 200,000 km (whichever comes first) for general coverage; 7 years/1,000,000 km for the drivetrain (first owner).
Service Plan: 7 years or 100,000 km, with 15,000 km service intervals.

Availability of Parts and Aftermarket Options

As a member of the Chery group, Omoda has demonstrated its commitment to the South African market, ensuring a decent stock of essential parts. While service costs align with industry norms, the relatively limited number of Omoda service centres and parts outlets nationwide may pose challenges when sourcing specific components. It’s also important to consider the availability of aftermarket options, which could impact maintenance convenience and cost over time.

Verdict

Overall, the Omoda C9 appears to be affordable to maintain when compared to other luxury SUVs in its class. The service costs and warranty plans offered are competitive, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of luxury and practical upkeep. However, potential buyers should factor in the distribution of service centres and the availability of parts, as these could impact long-term maintenance ease.

With a strong warranty, reasonable service fees, and fuel economy that suits city driving, the Omoda C9 offers a balanced ownership experience. But those considering the C9 should remain aware of the potential challenges related to parts availability and explore local dealerships’ support capabilities to ensure a seamless experience.