PETALING JAYA: Jaecoo Malaysia, the official distributor of Omoda in Malaysia, has given members of the media a chance to helm its incoming C9 sports utility vehicle (SUV).
First previewed in September, this D-segment SUV looks to be on course for its official launch in December.
The C9 will be sold in a standard 2WD variant with an estimated price of RM185,000 while the range-topping AWD version will likely cost around RM195,000.
Meanwhile, colour options include Matte Grey, Khaki White or Carbon Crystal Black.
The full-sized D-segment SUV featuring a diamond matrix grille is planned for local assembly in Shah Alam and will use a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 257hp and 400Nm of torque.
Some notable goodies include an acoustic windscreen, LEDs for front and rear illumination, NFC technology, walkaway locking system, pop-out door handles and a 660-litre (1,783-litre) boot among others.
While rolling on 20-inch alloys with 245/50 Michelin e-Primacy tyres, there's also an adaptive Continuously Damping Control (CDC) system paired to the front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension system.
During its second preview, members of the media were able to have a quick drive around the Bandar Utama area here.
The size of the C9 is impressive, with a sharp look and large wheels.
Inside, there's little to complain about with plenty of plushness from the seats and soft-touch areas to surround occupants with, which immediately elevates the sense of luxury.
The driver's seat does seem a little on the high side but with the C9 being the range-topper with a powered panoramic sunroof, things do not seem that bad.
Out and about, the C9 glides off the line effortlessly and is able to waft its occupants up to highway speeds comfortably in Eco mode.
Swap to Normal or Sport mode and the difference in throttle response isn't as distinct as one might like, but at least the latter mode will provide noticeably more abruptness.
Regardless of throttle inputs and driving modes, the powertrain is smooth and this is mirrored in the way the suspension handles uneven road surfaces thanks to the inclusion of CDC.
Be it "throw" or "flow" around corners, the C9's CDC indeed minimises the sensation of roll and replaces it with a noticeable lateral pull.
The turbocharged engine is a willing mill that does put power down if and when desired.
Couple this with a quiet interior thanks to the use of an acoustic windshield, and a suspension that allows for corner carving duties, the combination seems to immediately elevate the C9 to a higher tier.
Presently, the C9 has undoubtedly impressed with brakes that function intuitively and come with a definitive initial bite comparable to European makes.
For the average or even richer buyers, the C9 will ingrain a substantial sense of ownership satisfaction and pride.
