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GWM ORA 5 lands in Spain with a challenge for European brands

GWM ORA 5 lands in Spain with a challenge for European brands RUSSPAIN.com © russpain.com
GWM ORA 5 lands in Spain with a challenge for European brands © russpain.com
The GWM ORA 5 arrives in Spain with gasoline, hybrid, and electric versions. Its design, interior quality, and road performance set it apart from the wave of new Chinese SUVs and signal a shift in the compact SUV segment.

GWM is bringing the ORA 5 to Spain with gasoline, hybrid, and electric powertrains. The compact SUV targets established European brands, pairing distinctive styling with options for different buyers.

At 4.47 meters long, the ORA 5 competes with the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga, Peugeot 3008, Renault Austral, and Jaecoo 7. Buyers can choose a 160 hp gasoline engine, a 223 hp non-plug-in hybrid, or a 204 hp electric version. That gives the ORA 5 a choice of DGT C, ECO, or CERO badges, an unusual spread of options in this class. Spanish business media report that GWM plans to launch seven models in Spain by early 2027. The ORA 5 comes first, followed by models including the Haval H7, Tank 300, and Wey G9. Expansión reports that GWM already operates more than 40 sales and service points in Spain. It plans to reach 50 by the end of 2026 and cover over 80% of the country.

The ORA 5 stands apart from many Chinese SUVs. Its headlights and hood evoke Porsche, while the rear glass and LED lights catch the eye. The color choices are bold: ‘Verde Amazonia’ and ‘Azul Caribe’ are meant to draw attention on Spanish streets.

Inside, the ORA 5 pairs clean lines with a few surprises. It has two screens, one for driving information and the other for entertainment. The top Advance trim adds fabric panels in a houndstooth pattern, a nod to Porsche’s “Pepita” style, while the climate controls recall those in a MINI. Build quality feels solid, the surfaces feel pleasant to the touch, and the doors close with a reassuring sound. Highway noise insulation could be better, though: wind noise is more noticeable than in some rivals.

The ergonomics are well considered: visibility is good, the menus are clear, and voice controls work. Most driving aids and alerts can be switched off quickly. A customizable driver profile would be useful, but its absence is no dealbreaker. Rear-seat space is generous for the class, and the cabin feels open. Boot capacity is average, at 422 liters in the gasoline and electric versions and 390 liters in the hybrid.

On the road, the ORA 5 feels European. Its suspension is firm without being harsh, taking city bumps and rough roads in stride. Steering offers three levels of assistance. Feedback is muted, but the system gets the job done. The gasoline engine is the least powerful, yet lively: the 1.5 turbo responds well, and the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly. Fuel consumption is around 7.5 l/100 km. The 204 hp electric version is quick in the city and very quiet. It has a 58.3 kWh battery, a WLTP range of up to 435 km, and 120 kW DC charging. Those are decent figures, though not class-leading. Spanish automotive publications report the range and battery capacity.

The hybrid delivers 223 hp and reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds, matching the electric version. Its top speed is 185 km/h. The two-speed transmission keeps things quiet, while the turbocharged engine packs a punch. Average fuel consumption is about 6 l/100 km. The 55-liter tank gives it good range, particularly in city driving, where the hybrid system uses more electric power.

GWM is going on the attack with pricing. The gasoline ORA 5 starts at €26,950 (Explore) and €29,500 (Advance); the hybrid starts at €28,950 and €31,500. The electric version costs from €34,950 (Advance) to €37,500 (Advance). Official Spanish price lists show base-version ranges of €22,450 to €26,950 for gasoline, €22,350 to €28,950 for hybrid, and €23,950 to €34,950 for electric, depending on sales channel and trim. Brand discounts, government incentives, and financing bring entry prices down to €19,950 for gasoline, €22,350 for hybrid, and €23,950 for electric. Every version comes with a seven-year or 150,000 km warranty and a long list of standard features. Spanish sources have described the warranty as a impressive challenge to established European brands.

GWM is not alone. Chinese brands including Omoda, Jaecoo, Leapmotor, and Geely have already entered Spain, and some are selling well. Recent results reported by russpain.com show that Chinese brands are no longer on the sidelines. They are changing what Spanish buyers expect in value, technology, and choice.

The ORA 5’s appeal goes beyond price and features. GWM is offering Spanish drivers three powertrains in one model, with styling that feels both new and familiar. The car directly challenges European brands, and GWM has a steep learning curve. It could gain ground quickly.

Frank Miller RUSSPAIN.com
Editor

Frank Miller

Frank Miller covers the automotive industry, transport and Spanish road regulation for RUSSPAIN.COM