2025 Chery C5 Launch: In a bold move set to shake up Australia’s competitive SUV market, Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery has officially unveiled its restyled 2025 C5 model with an eye-catching starting price of just $29,990 drive-away.
This aggressive pricing strategy positions the C5 as one of the most affordable mid-sized SUVs available to Australian consumers, undercutting many established rivals while offering impressive standard features and contemporary styling.
Fresh Design Language Embraces Modern Aesthetics
The 2025 Chery C5 represents a significant evolution in the brand’s design philosophy, showcasing a more refined and distinctly European-influenced exterior.
The front fascia features Chery’s signature hexagonal grille pattern, now wider and more prominent, flanked by sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights that create a striking light signature.
The profile maintains athletic proportions with a gently sloping roofline and pronounced shoulder line, while the rear sports connected LED taillights that span the width of the tailgate – a design element increasingly common among premium vehicles.
Body sculpting demonstrates considerable attention to aerodynamic efficiency without sacrificing visual appeal, with the C5’s clean lines and purposeful stance contributing to its modern aesthetic. Available in seven exterior colors including the striking Azure Blue and Midnight Black dual-tone finish, the C5’s visual presentation punches well above its modest price point.
“Our design team wanted to create something that feels simultaneously premium and approachable,” explains Li Wei, Chery’s Chief Design Officer. “The new C5 embodies our philosophy of delivering sophisticated styling that stands out in urban environments while maintaining a timeless quality that won’t quickly date.”
Cutting-Edge Technology at an Accessible Price Point
Stepping inside the 2025 C5 reveals Chery’s commitment to delivering technology-forward interiors that challenge preconceptions about affordable vehicles.
The cabin is dominated by a dual-screen setup featuring twin 12.3-inch displays – one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other handling infotainment duties. This floating screen arrangement creates a contemporary cockpit atmosphere that rivals offerings from manufacturers at significantly higher price points.
The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, voice command functionality, and over-the-air updates to ensure the technology remains current throughout ownership.
A wireless charging pad is standard across all trim levels, eliminating the need for cables and enhancing the clean aesthetic of the interior.
Advanced driver assistance systems featured on the 2025 C5 include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. Higher trim levels add a 360-degree camera system, cross-traffic alert, and traffic sign recognition.
All safety systems have been calibrated specifically for Australian road conditions, demonstrating Chery’s commitment to the local market.
Three Well-Equipped Trim Levels Offer Clear Choices
The 2025 Chery C5 lineup consists of three thoughtfully configured trim levels, each representing excellent value at their respective price points:
C5 Urban ($29,990 drive-away): The entry-level model includes 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, the dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless smartphone integration, and the full suite of essential driver assistance features.
C5 Elite ($33,990 drive-away): The mid-tier variant adds a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, and an upgraded 8-speaker sound system.
C5 Ultra ($36,990 drive-away): The flagship model enhances the package with 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels, genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a head-up display, and the complete range of advanced safety technologies.
These drive-away prices represent significant value, especially considering the C5’s generous standard equipment and Chery’s market-leading 7-year unlimited-kilometer warranty with corresponding roadside assistance.
Refined Powertrain Options Balance Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2025 Chery C5 offers two powertrain options tailored to different driving preferences. The standard configuration features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 145kW of power and 290Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels. This combination delivers responsive performance while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 6.9L/100km.
For those seeking enhanced capability, the C5 Ultra AWD variant utilizes a more potent 1.6-liter turbocharged engine generating 160kW and 320Nm, connected to the same transmission but driving all four wheels through an intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
Despite the increased performance, fuel economy remains respectable at 7.4L/100km combined.
Both powertrains feature start-stop technology and multiple driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual) that adjust throttle response, steering weight, and transmission shift patterns to suit varying conditions and preferences.
Spacious Interior Prioritizes Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the C5 offers generous accommodation for five adult occupants with particular attention paid to rear seat comfort – an area where some competitors compromise.
The rear bench features reclining seatbacks and dedicated air vents, while the flat floor enhances center passenger comfort on longer journeys.
Cargo capacity stands at an impressive 485 liters with all seats in position, expandable to 1,550 liters when the 60:40 split rear seats are folded.
A hands-free power tailgate (standard on Elite and Ultra models) adds convenience when loading with arms full, while thoughtful interior storage solutions include large door pockets, an oversized center console bin, and a cleverly designed glove compartment.
Material quality represents another area where the C5 exceeds expectations, with soft-touch surfaces covering all touchpoints and convincing wood-effect or brushed aluminum trim (depending on variant) enhancing the premium ambiance.
Fit and finish demonstrate Chery’s significant progress in manufacturing consistency, challenging Western and Japanese competitors.
Advanced Engineering Delivers Refined Driving Experience
Chery engineers have worked extensively to ensure the C5 delivers a driving experience aligned with Australian expectations. The chassis utilizes high-strength steel for rigidity and crash protection while keeping weight in check.
Suspension consists of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear, with Australian-specific tuning for our unique road conditions.
Sound insulation receives particular attention, with acoustic glass, enhanced door seals, and strategic sound-deadening materials contributing to the cabin’s hushed atmosphere.
Wind and road noise are remarkably well suppressed even at highway speeds, creating a refined environment that belies the vehicle’s accessible price point.
The electric power steering system offers good weighting and reasonable feedback, while the braking system inspires confidence through its progressive pedal feel and strong stopping power. Overall dynamics demonstrate competent handling without sacrificing ride comfort – striking an appropriate balance for the family SUV segment.
Market Position and Competitive Advantage
The 2025 Chery C5’s arrival coincides with a broader shift in Australia’s automotive landscape, where Chinese manufacturers continue to gain market share through compelling value propositions that increasingly match or exceed established players in terms of features, quality, and warranty coverage.
At $29,990 drive-away for the entry-level Urban model, the C5 undercuts similarly equipped mid-size SUVs from mainstream brands by several thousand dollars while offering comparable space, performance, and technology.
This aggressive pricing strategy positions the C5 as particularly appealing to value-conscious buyers unwilling to compromise on features or capability.
“We understand Australian consumers have high expectations, and we’re confident the new C5 delivers on all fronts,” says David Johnson, Chery Australia’s Managing Director. “Our pricing strategy reflects our commitment to offering exceptional value without cutting corners on quality, technology, or the ownership experience.”
Comprehensive Ownership Package Provides Peace of Mind
Supporting the C5’s value proposition is Chery’s industry-leading ownership package, centered around a comprehensive 7-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty that exceeds most competitors. This coverage extends to the powertrain and includes 7 years of roadside assistance when servicing is completed within the authorized dealer network.
A capped-price servicing program covers the first 7 years of ownership, with maintenance required at 12-month/15,000km intervals. Service costs are competitive, with the first five visits priced at $280 each – providing cost certainty for budget-conscious owners.
Environmental Credentials and Future Development
While the initial C5 lineup focuses on conventional internal combustion powertrains, Chery has confirmed that hybrid and fully electric variants are under development and slated for Australian introduction in late 2025 or early 2026. These electrified models will utilize the same platform and body but incorporate technology already proven in other markets where Chery offers alternative propulsion options.
The commitment to expanding the powertrain lineup demonstrates Chery’s awareness of evolving consumer preferences and regulatory environments, positioning the brand to maintain relevance as the automotive landscape continues its transformation toward electrification.
A Compelling Package That Demands Consideration
The 2025 Chery C5 represents a significant step forward not just for the brand but for affordable SUVs in general. By combining attractive styling, comprehensive technology, respectable performance, and exceptional value, Chery has created a package that demands consideration from anyone shopping in the mid-size SUV segment.
While some buyers may still harbor reservations about Chinese-manufactured vehicles, the C5’s impressive specification, quality execution, and comprehensive warranty coverage directly address such concerns.
As Chery and other Chinese manufacturers continue to refine their offerings and expand their presence in the Australian market, the value proposition becomes increasingly difficult to ignore.
The 2025 Chery C5 is available for order now, with vehicles arriving in dealerships nationwide from June 1, 2025.