GWM intensifies competition in the Brazilian automotive market with the presentation of its latest vehicle. The Ora 5, the automaker’s first fully electric sports utility vehicle in the country, was launched with a very competitive price of R$159,000.
This value may be a strategy by GWM to mitigate late arrival in one of the fastest growing electric vehicle segments. The main objective of the Ora 5 is to achieve a significant sales volume, something that the Ora 03 model did not achieve.
GWM clarified that the introduction of the new SUV does not indicate the discontinuation of the Ora 03, which is sold for R$169,000, a value R$10,000 higher. The company has offered an incentive of R$20,000 for exchanging used vehicles for the electric hatch, allowing its final price to reach R$149,000.
Ora 5 design features more sober lines and monochromatic finish
An analysis of the competitive scenario reveals the presence of several models of electric SUVs on the market:
- BYD Yuan Pro: from R$182,990;
- Geely EX5: from R$205,800;
- Chevrolet Captiva EV: from R$199,990;
- Omoda E5: from R$209,990;
- Leapmotor B10: from R$ 182,990;
- Leapmotor C10: from R$204,990;
- GAC Aion Y: from R$ 175,990;
- MG S5: from R$219,800.
The Ora 5 appears as an enlarged version of the Ora 03, with larger dimensions in all directions. At 4.47 meters long, it is larger than vehicles such as the Jeep Compass, at 4.40 meters, and the Toyota Corolla Cross, at 4.46 meters.
However, compared to other electric vehicles in its category, the Ora 5 does not stand out due to its size, being smaller than the following models:
- Geely EX5: 4.61 meters long;
- Leapmotor B10: 4.51 meters long;
- Leapmotor C10: 4.73 meters long;
- GAC Aion Y: 4.53 meters long;
- MG S5: 4.47 meters long;
- Chevrolet Captiva EV: 4.74 meters long.
Despite this, its wheelbase measures 2.72 meters, ensuring a pleasant interior space for occupants of average height, while the panoramic sunroof adds a perception of greater spaciousness. The trunk, however, does not have the same level of prominence.
Cargo capacity is 362 liters, enough to accommodate five suitcases. However, in this regard, the Ora 5 is below most of its rivals in the segment:
- BYD Yuan Pro: 265 liters;
- Geely EX5: 461 liters;
- Chevrolet Captiva EV: 403 liters;
- Omoda E5: 340;
- Leapmotor B10: 365 liters;
- Leapmotor C10: 465 liters;
- GAC Aion Y: 361 liters;
- MG S5: 453 liters.
Externally, the Ora 5 displays a strong influence from Porsche designs, particularly models such as the 718 and 911, which maintain less tapered headlights.
These similarities are noted in the hood, which has raised sides in relation to the central area, and in the oval-shaped headlights, with a slight inclination towards the rear.
Looking at the profile, the Ora 5 displays a more discreet aesthetic. The rear, less curvy and more compact compared to the Ora 03, highlights this approach, visually bringing it closer to its competitors.
Inside, discretion remains present in the choice of colors. Unlike the Ora 03, which explores a variety of tones in materials, the new SUV opts for a monochromatic palette, with subtle color variations.
Small details in light copper are the only points of contrast, highlighting components such as the finish of the USB port, the door handles, the air conditioning vents and the speakers, aiming to make them easier to find.
The chromatic uniformity extends to the seat coverings, which maintain the predominant tone of the cabin, available in beige or black options.
Engine performance and battery life meet expectations
Equipped with front-wheel drive, the Ora 5 offers an engine that generates 204 horsepower and a torque of 26.5 kgfm. In a quick evaluation carried out on a controlled track, the performance confirmed expectations for an electric vehicle, with an immediate torque that allowed the tires to adhere quickly during acceleration.
Although the design of the Ora 5 departs from the Ora 03, the driving experience presents few variations. The driving sensation is similar to that of the hatch, characterized by a compact steering wheel, braking that requires greater pressure, the turning radius and the same 58 kWh battery.
The suspension calibration also refers to the Ora 03, being more robust than most Chinese models and similar to the firmness standard found in Volkswagen vehicles.
In abrupt braking tests during speed recovery, the vehicle demonstrated stability, without presenting the oscillations observed in models such as the Leapmotor B10 and the BYD Dolphin.
The crucial distinctions between the SUV and the hatch are in the autonomy, which in the Ora 5 is 349 km (34 km more than the Ora 03), and the greater ground clearance. While the Ora 03 provides handling closer to that of a kart, with the driver in a low position, the Ora 5 offers a utility experience, with a high seat and field of vision.
Ora 5 model arrives with robust equipment package and competitive price
In addition to its differentiated pricing policy, GWM also changed the version strategy compared to the Ora 03. While the hatch was launched in Brazil in three configurations (Skin, GT and the limited Copacabana edition), the Ora 5 will be offered in a single version, without a specific denomination.
The extensive list of equipment includes several technology and comfort items:
- Active front grille, which can close to improve aerodynamics;
- 18-inch alloy wheels;
- 14.6-inch multimedia center with the same system as the Haval H6;
- 10.25-inch digital instrument panel;
- 50 watt induction cell phone charger;
- Nine speakers distributed throughout the cabin;
- Panoramic sunroof;
- 360-degree view camera;
- Two-zone digital air conditioning, with rear outlets;
- Electrically adjustable front seats;
- Cooling function for the front seats;
- In-person key;
- Center console with drawer at the rear;
- Temporary spare tire instead of tire repair kit;
- Six airbags;
- Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assist;
- Blind spot alert;
- Automatic emergency braking.
The vehicle also has a router that provides Wi-Fi connection to passengers, allowing the simultaneous connection of up to eight devices, such as smartphones, notebooks and tablets, with 3 GB of data included.
The data package can be expanded through individual purchases of 10 GB for R$56, or through a monthly subscription that offers 5 GB for R$35.
Finally, the Ora 5 has the functionality of serving as a power source for other devices, using an adapter sold separately. This system is capable of delivering up to 6,000 watts at 220 volts and automatically deactivates when the battery reaches 30% of its capacity.
This power is enough, for example, to supply the energy of a 65-inch OLED TV, with an approximate consumption of 400 watts, and a PlayStation 5, which demands around 217 watts when running 4K games.