A new entrant has appeared in the compact SUV segment of South Africa: the GWM ORA 5. This model is available in three variants: gasoline, hybrid, and fully electric. Developed on GWM's ONE architecture, the ORA 5 is designed to support three types of transmissions while maintaining a unified design, cabin space, and technological equipment across the entire lineup.
Design and Dimensions
The ORA 5 retains the recognizable rounded style of the ORA brand, adapting it to a more traditional SUV appearance. The vehicle measures 4,471 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 2,720 mm. The front end features round LED headlights and welcome lighting functions, and roof rails are standard equipment. Compared to the more compact ORA hatchback, the ORA 5 offers a higher ride height and increased practicality.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the ORA 5 is equipped with a clean, minimalist dashboard featuring digital displays and premium finishes. GWM claims that thanks to the long wheelbase, the cabin is designed for maximum passenger space. Higher-spec models can be fitted with a panoramic glass roof. The ORA 5 infotainment system uses GWM's latest Coffee OS, which centers around a dual-screen layout combining the digital instrument cluster and the multimedia display. The system supports smartphone integration, voice control, and updated graphics, ensuring quick access to vehicle functions and connectivity features.
Powertrains
The base gasoline version is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 105 kW of power and 210 Nm of torque. Drive is provided to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The hybrid version boasts a more powerful configuration: a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine works together with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 164 kW and 476 Nm of torque. This utilizes GWM's two-speed hybrid transmission (DHT), which automatically switches between electric, hybrid, engine modes, and regenerative braking depending on driving conditions. The electric version is powered by a 150 kW front permanent magnet synchronous motor with 260 Nm of torque. Energy comes from a 58.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, and GWM states a range of up to 520 km under the NEDC test cycle. The integrated battery management system monitors charging, battery temperature, and cell performance to optimize longevity and efficiency.
Safety and Warranty
Every ORA 5 model is equipped with six airbags, as well as a suite of driver assistance systems aimed at increasing driver awareness and reducing the probability of collisions. These active driver support technologies operate in various road and traffic conditions. The vehicle comes with a seven-year or 200,000 km warranty. Hybrid and electric models have an extended warranty on the high-voltage battery—eight years or 150,000 km. Furthermore, all variants include a seven-year or 75,000 km maintenance plan, along with seven years of roadside assistance. Maintenance is scheduled every 12 months or 15,000 km, and roadside assistance is provided for seven years.
Pricing
Prices for the various ORA 5 versions start from R364,900. Specific prices are as follows: the ORA 5 1.5T Super Luxury DCT is priced at R364,900, and the ORA 5 1.5T Ultra Luxury DCT is R409,900. For the hybrid options: the ORA 5 1.5T HEV Super Luxury DHT costs R424,900, and the ORA 5 1.5T HEV Ultra Luxury DHT is R474,900. Electric versions: the ORA 5 Super Luxury BEV is R549,900, and the ORA 5 Ultra Luxury BEV is R599,900.