GWM Launches All-New ORA 5 SUV in South Africa With a Choice of Three Powertrains

• New model: ORA 5 compact SUV, launched 8 July 2026
• Powertrain choice: Turbo petrol (ICE), Hybrid (HEV) or fully electric (BEV)
• ICE: 1.5T petrol, 105kW and 210Nm, 7-speed DCT
• HEV: 1.5T petrol plus electric motor, combined 164kW and 476Nm, two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission
• BEV: 150kW and 260Nm electric motor, 58.3 kWh battery, up to 520km NEDC range
• Dimensions: 4,471mm length, 2,720mm wheelbase
• Safety: Six airbags standard across the range, plus active driver assistance technologies
• Pricing: From R364,900 (1.5T Super Luxury) to R599,900 (Ultra Luxury BEV)
• Warranty: 7-year/200,000km warranty, 8-year/150,000km battery warranty, 7-year/75,000km service plan, 7 years roadside assistance

GWM South Africa has officially launched the all-new ORA 5, a compact SUV that introduces a new level of choice, technology and flexibility to one of South Africa’s most competitive vehicle segments. Developed on the GWM ONE platform, the ORA 5 is built to accommodate multiple propulsion technologies within a single vehicle architecture, giving buyers genuine choice without compromising on refinement, efficiency or everyday practicality.

The ORA 5 takes the distinctive, rounded design language synonymous with the ORA nameplate globally and scales it into a commanding crossover stance. Measuring 4,471mm in length with a generous 2,720mm wheelbase, the ORA 5 delivers mid-size cabin room and practical cargo versatility within a nimble, city-friendly footprint.

Signature round LED headlights and sophisticated welcome lighting effects anchor its front profile, while standard roof rails emphasise its SUV capability. Inside, the cabin steps into premium territory with clean lines, high-grade materials, and an optional panoramic glass roof that bathes the interior in natural light.

At the heart of the ORA 5’s interior experience is GWM’s latest Coffee OS infotainment ecosystem. An intuitive dual-screen layout provides seamless smartphone integration, crisp user graphics, and fast voice-command capabilities designed to simplify everyday driving.

True to GWM’s commitment to safety, the ORA 5 features an extensive suite of active driver assistance systems standard across the range, including six airbags on every model. The vehicles are also equipped with driver assistance technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and provide confidence across a variety of driving conditions.

Customers can choose between internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) derivatives, with a fully electric (BEV) model also on offer, giving motorists the freedom to select the technology best suited to their driving needs.

The ICE model is powered by a high-thermal-efficiency 1.5T petrol engine delivering 105kW and 210Nm, mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission. This powertrain offers refinement for drivers who prefer the familiarity and convenience of a conventional setup.

The HEV models are built around a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine purpose-built for hybrid applications, working alongside a high-output electric motor to produce a combined 164kW and 476Nm. This hybrid setup delivers strong acceleration, smooth power delivery and confident overtaking performance, paired with GWM’s advanced two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), which continuously optimises the balance between the petrol engine and electric motor. Depending on driving conditions, the system automatically switches between electric drive, hybrid drive, engine drive or regenerative braking, with transitions that are virtually imperceptible to the driver.

The BEV variants use an advanced battery-electric powertrain designed for responsive performance, refined efficiency and zero tailpipe emissions. A front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor produces 150kW and 260Nm of instantaneous torque for smooth, confident acceleration in both urban and highway driving. Energy comes from a 58.3 kWh lithium-ion battery engineered to provide a NEDC driving range of up to 520km on a single charge, with an intelligent Battery Management System continuously monitoring temperature, charging status and cell performance to optimise efficiency and durability.

“By offering three powertrains at launch, we are giving South African motorists genuine choice within a highly competitive compact SUV segment. The ORA 5 combines modern design, advanced technology and everyday practicality in a package that we believe will resonate strongly with local customers,” says Floyd Ramabulana, head of Marketing at GWM South Africa.

The ORA 5 range is priced as follows:

• ORA 5 1.5T Super Luxury DCT: R364,900
• ORA 5 1.5T Ultra Luxury DCT: R409,900
• ORA 5 1.5T HEV Super Luxury DHT: R424,900
• ORA 5 1.5T HEV Ultra Luxury DHT: R474,900
• ORA 5 Super Luxury BEV: R549,900
• ORA 5 Ultra Luxury BEV: R599,900

The GWM ORA 5 range will be sold through selected GWM South Africa dealerships nationwide and is backed by a comprehensive ownership package. Coverage includes a 7-year/200,000km warranty, an 8-year/150,000km high-voltage battery warranty, and a 7-year/75,000km service plan, with service intervals set at 12 months or 15,000km. Seven years of standard roadside assistance adds further peace of mind for owners.

With three distinct powertrains, sharp styling and a comprehensive ownership package, the ORA 5 gives compact SUV buyers a genuine choice of technology without compromise. Get in touch today to find out which ORA 5 suits you best.