2026 Omoda 4 revealed in Beijing as new hybrid SUV eyes NZ launch in 2027

The Omoda 4 has been revealed at the 2026 Beijing motor show, previewing a new small SUV that’s expected to play a key role in the expansion of Omoda Jaecoo in New Zealand ahead of a likely 2027 launch.

Positioned as the smallest member of the growing Omoda lineup, the Omoda 4 will sit beneath the Omoda C5 as a compact crossover aimed at younger buyers, combining bold styling with what’s expected to be sharp pricing.

For Chery, this model shapes as a crucial volume player in one of New Zealand’s most competitive segments, where it will go up against established hybrids like the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Corolla Cross, as well as an increasing number of full electric Chinese challengers like the MG 4.

Unveiled as part of the brand’s global push, the Omoda 4 showcases its latest ‘Cyber Mecha’ design language. The exterior features sharp creases, distinctive LED lighting signatures, and a coupe-like silhouette, while the rear is defined by a full-width light bar and boomerang-style tail-lights.

Inside, the futuristic theme tech-focused cabin features a 13.2-inch central touchscreen paired with a digital instrument cluster and 50W wireless phone charging. There’s also a fighter jet-style flip cover hiding the start/stop button – a quirky touch more commonly associated with high-end Lamborghini performance cars.

Under the skin, the Omoda 4 is built on Chery’s T1X platform and will be offered with a wide range of powertrains globally. These are set to include turbocharged petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options, depending on the market.

At its Beijing debut, the focus was on the brand’s latest ‘Super Hybrid System’. Early details suggest a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 110kW, paired with electrified systems delivering significantly higher combined outputs.

Omoda’s existing Super Hybrid System – already seen in the Jaecoo J7 and Omoda 9 – delivers around 165kW, sub-eight-second 0–100km/h performance and up to 1000km of combined WLTP range.

A full electric version is also expected, with some markets tipped to receive a single-motor variant offering up to 430km of driving range.

Measuring approximately 4.4 metres in length with a wheelbase of around 2.6 metres, the Omoda 4 sits squarely in the small SUV category – one of the most popular segments in New Zealand.

Production began in April 2026 shortly after its global reveal, with Europe among the first regions in line for deliveries. Right-hand-drive markets like Australia and New Zealand are expected to follow.

Pricing is tipped to be aggressive, with overseas estimates suggesting a starting point equivalent to around €20,000 (~NZ$40,000), which would place it competitively against both combustion and electrified rivals.

While final confirmation is still pending, the Omoda 4 is understood to be a strong candidate for local showrooms, with a New Zealand launch expected around early 2027.