Great Wall Motors (GWM) will introduce the Ora 5 small SUV to Australia mid-year, marking a potential first for the Ora sub-brand with the availability of both electric and hybrid powertrains. This expansion reflects a broader trend among automakers toward offering consumers a choice between zero-emission and traditional combustion options, acknowledging the varying levels of EV adoption in different markets.
Expanding the Ora Lineup
The Ora 5, positioned above the existing Ora electric hatch, shares the same design language but in a larger SUV body. It boasts 175mm of ground clearance and increased cabin space, making it a direct competitor to models like the MG S5 EV and slightly larger than the BYD Atto 2. Its dimensions – 4471mm long, 1833mm wide, and 1641mm tall – position it squarely in the popular compact SUV segment.
Powertrain Options and Pricing
GWM Australia is evaluating whether to offer both electric and hybrid versions locally. The Ora 5 utilizes the GWM ONE platform, designed to accommodate battery-electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engines, allowing for flexibility in powertrain configurations.
In Thailand, the EV version of the Ora 5 starts at approximately $27,638 AUD, while the hybrid begins at $32,032 AUD. These prices are competitive with other EVs in the region, such as the Jaecoo J5 and the BYD Atto 2, suggesting a similar pricing strategy may be adopted in Australia.
Performance and Technology
The electric Ora 5 features a 150kW/260Nm front-mounted motor powered by a 58.3kWh battery, offering a claimed range of up to 520km (NEDC). It supports DC fast-charging at up to 120kW and includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability. The hybrid variant combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a dedicated hybrid transmission, delivering a combined output of 164kW/476Nm and fuel efficiency of 4.29L/100km.
Standard features on Thai-market models include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, power-adjustable front seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen, and a surround-view camera. Optional extras include ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and wireless charging. Safety features such as adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking are standard, with blind-spot monitoring available as an upgrade.
Manufacturing and Expansion Plans
The Ora 5 is expected to be sourced from China, while the Ora hatch will shift to Thai sourcing in 2025. GWM has ambitious growth plans, aiming for 75,000 annual sales in Australia to become a top-five automaker, having already sold 52,809 units in 2025. Currently seventh overall with 9,198 sales in early 2026, the company is in close competition with BYD for the title of best-selling Chinese brand.
The Ora 5 represents a significant step for Ora as its first model to offer a non-electric powertrain, signaling a strategic shift towards broader market appeal. GWM’s expansion plans include introducing at least two more Ora-branded models, potentially including the Ora Sport electric sedan, further solidifying its position in the competitive Australian automotive landscape.
