It is another of our specials, and this time we are pitting the Omoda C9 PHEV against the Lexus RX 500h in a series of challenges to see whether a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or a traditional hybrid (HEV) powertrain is superior.
Powering the Omoda C9 PHEV is Omoda Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System (SHS), comprising a 1.5-litre turbocharged straight-four engine producing 143 hp and 215 Nm.
This is paired with a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) and two traction motors on the front axle that make 225 hp and 390 Nm. A third motor sits on the rear axle, adding a further 238 hp and 310 Nm. All in, the Omoda C9 PHEV delivers a combined output of 537 hp and 650 Nm.
This 537 hp output enables the Omoda C9 PHEV to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Equipped with a 34.46 kWh LFP battery, the C9 PHEV can travel 169 km (NEDC) in pure EV mode and has a claimed combined range of 1,100 km with a full charge and a tank of petrol, thanks to its combined fuel consumption of 1.4 L/100 km (NEDC).
By contrast, the Lexus RX 500h features a parallel hybrid powertrain with a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two traction motors for a combined output of 371 hp (273 kW) and 550 Nm. This output is sent to an all-wheel drive setup via a six-speed automatic, enabling 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds.
So, will PHEV or HEV reign superior to one another? You have to watch the video here to find out!
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