The name change, according to top executives, was necessitated by a stretched wheelbase and evolved design, which positioned the crossover into a slightly larger segment than initially planned. This strategic repositioning not only caters to evolving customer demands for more interior space but also smartly leaves a gap in the portfolio for smaller, future models to be introduced beneath it.
The Omoda 4 will be swiftly followed by a more dynamically styled sibling, the Omoda 4 Ultra, set for its own reveal on October 20. The Ultra variant will feature a more aggressive, body-kitted aesthetic, though expected to share the core mechanical specifications of the standard 4.
Omoda 4: Key Launch Details
- New Name: Omoda 3 officially renamed to Omoda 4 due to increased size and market positioning.
- Design Language: Features the striking new 'Cyber Mecha' design, aimed at a younger demographic.
- Global Powertrain Strategy: Confirmed for global release with ICE, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV-SHS), and Electric powertrains.
- UK Launch Window: Expected to arrive in the UK in October 2026, following the Omoda 7.
Design Philosophy: Embracing the ‘Cyber Mecha’ Aesthetic
The Omoda 4 introduces a bold new design direction for the brand, distinct from its existing 5 and 9 models. Termed ‘Cyber Mecha,’ the design language is notably more angular, aggressive, and contemporary, strategically targeting a younger, style-conscious audience.
Arturo Arino, lead designer of the Omoda 4 and Design Director at Chery International, emphasized the car's bold mission:
"The core idea [of the Omoda 4] is a crossover from the future, which is directed at young people. Many cars are becoming more mundane and looking the same, we wanted to do something more edgy, even if it might not be for everyone."
- Exterior Highlights: The 4.4-metre-long crossover features striking LED light signatures at both the front and rear, described as replicating lightning flashes. Textured wheelarch surrounds contribute to a visual effect that makes the car appear taller and more rugged than its compact dimensions might suggest. The designers explicitly cited inspiration drawn from the gaming world in shaping the car's aggressive stance.
Starship-Inspired Interior and Novel Features
Inside the Omoda 4, the design team drew inspiration from a different realm: starships. The cabin is defined by a high-set centre console and dramatic red wraparound LED interior lighting, creating a driver-focused, futuristic cockpit.
A large, modern touchscreen naturally dominates the instrument panel, handling most infotainment and system controls. However, designers wisely retained tactile elements, including physical buttons dedicated to immediate access for the climate control menu, as well as front and rear windscreen demisters—a crucial feature for usability and safety.
The most unusual and distinctive feature is the engine start mechanism: the engine start button is concealed beneath a small red protective flap that must be deliberately flicked up before activation. This element adds a dramatic, high-performance flair, reminiscent of the starting sequence found in cars like the Lamborghini Urus, enhancing the ‘Mecha’ theme.
Powertrain Strategy: A Multi-Energy Global Model
Confirmed as a new ‘global’ model, the Omoda 4 is designed to meet the diverse regulatory and consumer demands across different continents. It will be offered with a full suite of powertrain options:
- Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
- Hybrid (HEV)
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
While full specifications remain unconfirmed and local versions are yet to be detailed, both hybrid and electric versions are highly anticipated for the European and UK markets. Crucially, Omoda is expected to feature a version powered by their proprietary Super Hybrid System (SHS) plug-in hybrid technology, which promises a significantly longer electric-only driving range than many established European rivals, positioning it as a strong competitor in the PHEV segment.
The Rationale Behind the Last-Minute Name Change
The unexpected shift from Omoda 3 to Omoda 4 became the most talked-about detail of the reveal event. While the official press line often suggests the change was intended as a dramatic surprise, the practical reasons point to both product evolution and strategic market positioning.
The concept version evolved considerably, notably gaining a longer wheelbase during the development process. This change resulted in a more spacious car, effectively moving it up a category, hence justifying the ‘4’ designation and leaving room beneath it for future, genuinely compact models.
Shawn Xu, CEO of Omoda, provided the official explanation, emphasizing a commitment to customer collaboration:
"We make the car with our customers, Omoda 4 better meets their demands. We want our customers to come here to tell us what they like, what they don’t like. With this information we can improve ourselves. Half a year after showing the car [the Omoda 3] we had so much more feedback that it wasn’t suitable for this car, instead the Omoda 4 is better so we adopted that."
UK Market Positioning and Launch Timeline
The Omoda 4 will arrive in the UK as the fourth model in the Chinese brand's rapidly expanding line-up. Its introduction will follow the success of the popular 5 and 9 models, and the arrival of the larger Omoda 7 family SUV, which is slated for the first quarter of 2026.
The launch of the Omoda 4 is anticipated approximately six months after the Omoda 7. This timeline strongly suggests a UK launch coinciding with the new registration plate introduction in September 2026, maximizing visibility and sales impact in a competitive market segment.