Chery has added hybrid power to its C5 small SUV range, positioning the new model between the petrol-powered C5 and the fully electric E5.
The C5 Hybrid will be offered in two grades when it reaches Australian dealerships this month: the Urban from $31,990 driveaway and the Ultimate from $34,990 driveaway.
Both use a series-parallel hybrid system pairing a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor. Combined outputs are rated at 165kW and 295Nm, with drive sent to the front wheels through a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission.
Chery claims combined-cycle fuel consumption of 4.9L/100km and CO2 emissions of 111g/km, giving buyers a lower-emissions option without the need to rely on public or home charging.
The entry-level Urban includes 17-inch alloy wheels, dual 12.3-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery and a suite of driver-assistance systems.
Stepping up to the Ultimate brings 18-inch alloys, a Sony eight-speaker sound system, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 50W wireless phone charging, power tailgate, sunroof and a 360-degree camera.
Safety equipment across the range includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure prevention and seven airbags. The 360-degree camera is exclusive to the Ultimate.
For novated lease buyers, the C5 Hybrid creates another option for drivers who want better fuel economy than a conventional petrol SUV but are not ready to move to a full battery-electric vehicle. The driveaway pricing and long warranty may also appeal to buyers focused on predictable ownership costs.
