Tesla Model Y vs Omoda E5: should you save £10,000 and buy a Chinese car?

There are loads of new Chinese brands setting up shop in the UK, one of them being Omoda. It’s launched on our shores with two SUVs, the 5 and the all-electric E5.

The latter looks particularly interesting, because on paper it’s a tempting proposition. It’s well-equipped, has a nice-looking interior and it’s cheap. A Tesla Model Y starts from £45,000, while this Omoda will cost you just £33,000.

But is the E5 worth considering, or should you just splash the cash on a Tesla? We’re going to compare the stats to find out.

Electric Range and Performance

Omoda E5

The Omoda has a 204hp motor paired to a 61kWh battery, delivering a decent 257 miles of range. It’s front-wheel drive, and 0-60mph takes 7.2 seconds. It’ll handle your commute and shopping runs without breaking a sweat – just don’t expect fireworks when you put your foot down. Charging speeds top out at 80kW, meaning a 30–80% fill takes around 28 minutes.

Tesla Model Y

The Model Y is much more impressive. Even the base model has 311 miles of range, with pricier versions stretching to 387 miles. Power starts at 275hp and goes up to 370hp. And with charging speeds of up to 250kW, you can add 150 miles in 15 minutes at a Supercharger while grabbing a coffee. It’s properly fast too – 0-60mph takes 5.6 seconds even in the basic version.

The Tesla doesn’t just edge it here — it absolutely wallops the Omoda. More range, much quicker, faster charging. But is the extra 54 miles of range worth £10,000? If you don’t do many long-distance journeys then probably not.

Interior Space and Practicality

Omoda E5

Despite its SUV appearance, the Omoda E5 offers interior space more akin to a hatchback. The 380-litre boot is okay for the weekly shop but gets embarrassed by pretty much every SUV in the class. Rear seats are tight, headroom’s limited, and fitting a bulky child seat might require some effort and swear words.

Tesla Model Y

The Model Y is slightly larger than the Omoda E5, and it’s way more practical. It has a massive 854-litre boot, as well as a large storage area under the bonnet. The rear seats also offer limo-like space with a flat floor, wide doors, and even their own 9.0-inch screen for air-con and seat heating.

This one’s a no-contest. The Tesla’s interior is the SUV equivalent of a TARDIS, while the Omoda’s trying to convince you that “cosy” is a good thing.

Standard Equipment

Omoda E5

The E5 punches above its weight for standard equipment. Even the base trim gets LED lights, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping tech, and a twin-screen setup, although the software is pretty frustrating to use. The posher ‘Noble’ spec throws in heated faux-leather seats, a Sony stereo, and a sunroof — not bad for a car that can be yours for under £29,000 with Carwow discounts.

Tesla Model Y

It’s all about that 15.4-inch screen in the Model Y. You don’t get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but Tesla’s software is slick and pretty easy to use. However, it forces you to do basic stuff – like opening the glovebox or adjusting mirrors – via touchscreen menus. It’s smart, but it can also be a faff to use.

The Omoda feels like a bargain here. It gives you a load of goodies without asking for much. The Tesla is flashier and more premium, but also fiddlier.

Final Verdict: Is the Tesla Model Y Worth £10k More?

If you want an electric SUV which is spacious, well-equipped, good to drive and quick then the Tesla Model Y earns its price tag. It’s not flawless – the tech can be annoying, but it’s the better electric SUV by a mile.

If you’re just after a well-equipped, no-nonsense EV that won’t hurt your bank account, the Omoda E5 is worth considering, however there are other electric cars which do it better. The Cupra Born is around the same price and offers similar practicality, but is much nicer to drive. You can also get the cavernous Skoda Enyaq for similar money.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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