Great Wall Motors Relaunches in Israel with Affordable Hybrid SUV ORA 05
The influx of new Chinese cars into Israel continues unabated, reshaping local market preferences rapidly from electric vehicles to affordable plug-in hybrids and now to budget hybrids. This aggressive market evolution has driven average prices down and expanded the customer base for Chinese brands. Great Wall Motors (GWM), a major Chinese automaker, experienced setbacks in Europe with its ORA electric models launched three years ago, leading to a strategic retreat from Europe and minimal activity in Israel. Now, GWM is re-entering the Israeli market with the ORA 05, a global hybrid model that carries the GWM logo prominently and the ORA brand discreetly.
The ORA 05 features a more subdued design compared to previous ORA models, blending nostalgic elements reminiscent of classic Volkswagen and Porsche designs with a family-friendly hatchback profile. It stands 1.64 meters tall, placing it in the SUV segment, and offers a spacious, airy interior with large windows and a high roof. The cabin includes a minimalist dashboard with a large rectangular digital instrument panel and a 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen, complemented by physical retro-style switches and a conveniently placed gear lever. The interior quality and noise insulation are on par with more expensive segments, and the base model includes a power driver’s seat.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with a strong electric motor and a small non-plug-in battery. The vehicle defaults to quiet electric driving in city and moderate highway conditions, switching to the gasoline engine for acceleration or when the battery depletes. The combined output is 223 horsepower with a robust 48.5 kgm torque, enabling 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.8 seconds. Official fuel consumption is about 19.6 km per liter, with real-world mileage depending on driving style, potentially exceeding 600 km per tank. The car handles well for daily driving, especially in urban settings, though the steering feels artificial and less responsive on winding roads.
Safety features are comprehensive, though lane-keeping systems can be intrusive. The ORA 05’s base version is priced at 140,000 shekels, with a fully equipped variant under 150,000 shekels, positioning it competitively in the crowded Israeli market. This launch may pave the way for GWM’s broader expansion in Israel. Competing Chinese hybrids like the Chery Tiggo 4 and MG ZS offer similar features and pricing but differ in power and cargo space.
Summary: Great Wall Motors returns to Israel with the ORA 05, an affordable hybrid SUV combining nostalgic design and modern technology, priced from 140,000 shekels, aiming to capture a significant market share amid growing Chinese car popularity.
Points: - Great Wall Motors re-enters Israel with the ORA 05 hybrid SUV after European retreat. - ORA 05 features nostalgic yet subdued design and spacious, high-quality interior. - Hybrid powertrain offers 223 hp, 7.8-second 0-100 km/h, and 19.6 km/l fuel efficiency. - Base price starts at 140,000 shekels, undercutting competitors in the segment. - Vehicle includes advanced safety systems and user-friendly multimedia interface. - Competes with Chinese hybrids like Chery Tiggo 4 and MG ZS in Israel’s growing market.
