The sharp-edged 2026 Omoda 4, originally introduced as the Omoda 3 concept, is poised to enter the competitive small SUV market. This new model, comparable in size to the Kia EV4, BYD Atto 2, and Toyota Corolla Cross, was unveiled this week in China with its new name. The vehicle is scheduled to go on sale in late 2026.
Although full specifications, including powertrains, equipment levels, and pricing, remain under wraps, Omoda Australia has indicated that the Omoda 4 is under consideration for local showrooms. If approved, it would join the Omoda 9 large SUV, which became the brand’s first model in Australia in August 2025.
Omoda’s Strategic Naming and Market Positioning
According to British publication Car, Omoda plans to unveil an Omoda 4 Ultra soon, aligning with the brand’s revised naming strategy. Omoda CEO Shawn Xu explained the name change, stating,
“We make the car with our customers. Omoda 4 [name] better meets their demands. We want our customers to come here to tell us what they like, what they don’t like.”
Xu emphasized that customer feedback prompted the name change from Omoda 3 to Omoda 4.
The Omoda brand, part of the larger Chery group, launched the Omoda Jaecoo brand in Australia earlier this year. In August, the brand introduced its first stand-alone Omoda-badged vehicle, the Omoda 9 plug-in hybrid (PHEV), competing against models like the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander.
Design and Technological Innovations
The Omoda 4 is based on the T1X platform, shared with the Chery C5 and other models such as the Jaecoo J7 mid-size SUV. The vehicle’s design reflects Chery’s strategy to visually differentiate its sub-brands. Shawn Xu highlighted the brand’s unique design language and technological advancements, including Super Hybrid technology and enhanced connectivity.
Depending on the market, the Omoda 4 will offer various powertrains, including petrol, hybrid, PHEV, and EV options. The EV model will compete directly with the upcoming BYD Atto 2, set to launch in November. In Australia, a version of the Omoda 9’s Super Hybrid PHEV system is a likely candidate, given the growing demand for hybrids.
Market Implications and Future Prospects
If the Omoda 4 is introduced in Australia, its pricing is expected to be competitive with other hybrid models like the Toyota Corolla Cross, currently starting at $37,440. The introduction of the Omoda 4 could significantly impact the small SUV segment, offering consumers more choices with advanced technology and design.
As Omoda continues to expand its global footprint, the Omoda 4 represents a strategic move to capture a younger audience with its innovative design and technology. The vehicle’s success in markets like Europe and the UK, where it is confirmed for release in late 2026, will likely influence its potential launch in Australia and other regions.
Overall, the Omoda 4’s launch marks an exciting development in the automotive industry, promising to deliver cutting-edge features and a fresh design perspective. As the release date approaches, more details are expected to emerge, providing a clearer picture of what this new model will offer to consumers worldwide.
