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The first new model from GWM's Ora electric-car division in three years is months away – and it could offer a hybrid option.
The 2026 GWM Ora 5 small SUV is due in Australia from the middle of this year, as the start of an expanded Ora sub-brand currently represented only by the Ora electric hatchback.
The Ora 5 is available with a choice of hybrid and electric power in the right-hand-drive Thai market, but it is yet to be confirmed if both options – or just the EV – will be offered locally.
Similar in footprint to the current GWM Haval Jolion, the Ora 5 applies the name to a larger SUV platform, for increased ground clearance and more interior space.
In Thailand, the electric version is priced from 629,000 to 699,000 baht – slightly dearer than the 629,000 to 659,000 baht of the BYD Atto 2, Australia's cheapest electric SUV at $31,990 plus on-road costs.
At 4471mm long, 1833mm wide, 1641mm tall and 2720mm in wheelbase, the Ora 5 is sized similarly to the MG S5 EV and BYD Atto 2 electric SUVs.
A GWM Australia spokesperson told Drive "all options [hybrid and/or electric] remain under investigation" for Australia and New Zealand.
In EV trim, the Ora 5 produces 150kW/260Nm from its single front electric motor, while its 58.3kWh lithium-ion battery is claimed to reach a 520km range based on less stringent NEDC testing.
The Ora 5 will accept up to 120kW on a DC fast charger, and offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability.
In hybrid trim, the Ora 5 is powered by a 110kW/240Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and 140kW/236Nm electric motor for a combined 164kW/476Nm, aided by a 1.09kWh lithium-ion battery.
It claims fuel consumption of 4.3L/100km in Thai testing.
Standard in Thailand are 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, and keyless entry, while inside it offers power-adjustable front seats, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
Autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-centring assist, blind-spot monitoring, and front- and rear cross-traffic alerts are available.
It is unclear if the Ora 5 will be produced in China or Thailand for Australia.
The current GWM Ora is now made in Thailand for local showrooms, and starts from $33,990 drive-away.
The Ora 5 will be sold alongside the GWM Haval Jolion Max, another small SUV coming to local showrooms with electric and plug-in hybrid power.
