GWM Ora Review: Is this quirky Aussie EV a smart buy?

Here’s a quick rundown of what we found in our GWM Ora review:

• The GWM Ora has a distinctive, eye-catching design that’s sure to turn heads.
• It offers a comfortable and surprisingly well-finished interior, especially for its price point.
• Ride quality is excellent, making it a pleasant car to drive, particularly in urban environments.
• Servicing costs are remarkably low, and the warranty, including for the battery, is very generous.
• Slower DC charging speeds and some fiddly tech, especially the infotainment and driver aids, are drawbacks to consider.

You can’t really mistake the GWM Ora for anything else on the road, can you? The curvy shape and bubbly features are hard to ignore and, honestly, a bit of a conversation starter. Friends find the looks either cute or a bit odd, but it never goes unnoticed. It’s the kind of car that people actually ask about in car parks—more than most others I’ve tested. That says something about its unique presence, especially in a market where small EVs can easily blend together. GWM’s bold push into Australia shows they’re not afraid to stand out, especially as the Ora goes up against rivals like the MG4 and BYD Dolphin, plus all the upcoming competition in the EV space.

The Ora isn’t going for subtlety, and to be fair, I reckon that’s half the appeal if you want something different in the commuter car crowd.

Styling is divisive, but there’s no doubt it’s thoughtfully put together. The Ora’s rounded lights, blacked-out roof (on most models), and big 18-inch wheels set it apart. Only the top-spec GT adds red accents and special wheels, which actually do look sportier in person. There’s no mistaking this car for anything else in the carpark—even the ‘ORA’ badge seems to shout its name. For such a compact hatch, the attention to detail is impressive:

• 18-inch alloys (standard across the range)
• Distinctive colour combos, especially the two-tone roof
• Quirky yet practical hatchback shape
• No frunk, but a decent underfloor space for the charge cable and tyre kit

Inside, the fun factor continues. The seats use a blue-stitched leatherette, and there’s matching trim along the dash and doors, giving the cabin a cool vibe. While soft-touch dash areas impress, most surfaces lower down are still hard plastic—you feel the cost savings there. Up front, storage is practical but not generous: a deep centre bin, two cupholders, and a couple of small door pockets that don’t fit bigger bottles. That said, rear legroom is surprisingly decent for a small EV and a low centre floor keeps things open.

The back seat has only basic amenities (a single USB port, map pockets, and a folding armrest), but there’s space enough for adults on shorter trips. Boot space, though, is definitely on the small side:

If you’re always hauling stuff, you’ll max it out quickly, but the hatch opening is wide and access is easy. There’s enough room for groceries and a folded pram, nothing massive.

When you put your foot down in the GWM Ora, you’ll find it offers a decent initial surge, typical of electric vehicles. It’s not going to pin you back in your seat like some of the sportier EVs on the market, but for everyday driving and getting up to speed from a standstill, it feels perfectly adequate. The power delivery is smooth and linear, which makes for a relaxed driving experience. However, some drivers have noted that under certain conditions, particularly in the wet or when applying throttle aggressively in corners, the front wheels can struggle for grip, leading to noticeable wheel spin and torque steer. This suggests that while the power is there, harnessing it effectively, especially with the stock tyres, can be a challenge.

The Ora generally provides a comfortable ride, soaking up most road imperfections without too much fuss. It feels stable at higher speeds, making highway cruising a pleasant affair. In terms of handling, it’s competent for daily commuting and general driving. However, pushing the car harder, especially on winding roads or in less-than-ideal weather, reveals its limitations. Some reviews point out that the car can feel a bit unsettled, and the traction control system seems to work overtime to manage the power. This is an area where upgrading the tyres might make a significant difference, as has been suggested by some owners looking for improved grip and a more planted feel. For those who aren’t planning on aggressive driving, the standard setup should be fine, but it’s worth noting for keen drivers.

In the urban jungle, the GWM Ora performs quite well. Its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre through traffic and squeeze into tight parking spots. The instant torque from the electric motor means quick getaways from traffic lights, and the quiet operation contributes to a serene city driving experience. The visibility is generally good, aiding in navigating busy streets. However, as mentioned, be mindful of applying too much throttle too quickly, especially on damp surfaces, as you might find the front wheels scrabbling for purchase. It’s a car that rewards smooth inputs, making it a pleasant companion for your daily commute. If you’re looking for a detailed breakdown of the Ora’s features and how it stacks up, this in-depth look at the GWM Ora 5 might be helpful.

While the Ora offers a comfortable and quiet ride for daily use, drivers who push the limits might find the standard setup struggles with traction, particularly in wet conditions. Upgrading tyres is a common suggestion for those seeking better performance.

The GWM Ora’s infotainment system is a bit of a mixed bag, honestly. On one hand, it’s got the basics covered, and recent updates have brought in features like Android Auto, which is a big plus for many drivers. You can connect your phone and use familiar apps, which is handy. However, the system itself can feel a bit clunky. Some users have noted that the icons and text are quite small, making them hard to read at a glance. It’s like it was designed on a big computer screen and not really scaled down for a car’s display.

The trend of putting almost everything into the touchscreen is a double-edged sword. While it can look sleek, it means if the system isn’t intuitive or has issues, it can really get on your nerves every single time you drive.

There’s also the "Hello Ora" voice control, though it seems this feature wasn’t actually rolled out in Australia, which is a bit of a bummer. So, don’t expect to be chatting with your car. Overall, it does the job, but it’s not the most polished or user-friendly system out there. For those who rely heavily on their car’s tech, this might be something to consider. You can find out more about the Ora’s connected features here.

The Ora comes equipped with a suite of driver assistance systems, many of which are standard for achieving a good safety rating. Things like lane-keeping assist (LKA) and emergency steering are included. Now, these systems are meant to help, but they can be a bit overzealous. Some drivers find the emergency steering, in particular, can activate unexpectedly and quite aggressively, even when it’s not really needed. This can be startling and, for some, even dangerous.

Many owners report that they simply turn these systems off every time they start the car because they can be so intrusive. It’s a common complaint that these ‘bings and bongs’ can be distracting, which kind of defeats the purpose of safety features.

• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Can be overly sensitive and sometimes feels like it’s fighting you. Many drivers disable it on startup.
• Emergency Steering: Prone to activating when not necessary, causing a jolt.
• Driver Attention Warning: Generally works as intended, though it might occasionally chime if you’re looking away for too long.

It’s a classic case of technology trying to help but sometimes getting in the way. You can get used to some of it, or learn the quickest way to switch off the bits that annoy you most.

When it comes to staying connected, the Ora offers the essentials. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is great for using your preferred phone interface for music, maps, and calls. These have generally been reported to work well without crashing, especially on newer phone operating systems. The car also supports over-the-air updates, which is a good sign for future improvements.

However, built-in navigation isn’t a strong point. Many reports suggest that the car doesn’t actually come with integrated sat-nav functionality. You’ll be relying on your phone for directions, which, as mentioned, works fine through CarPlay or Android Auto. The audio quality from the speakers is also a bit of a letdown; don’t expect a concert hall experience. It’s more for background noise than serious listening. The upcoming Ora 5 SUV is expected to feature a larger digital cluster, which might improve the overall feel of the tech here.

When you’re looking at an electric car, figuring out how far it can go and how long it takes to juice up is pretty important, right? The GWM Ora has some decent specs here, but it’s not exactly breaking any records.

The Ora’s AC charging speed maxes out at 11 kW. This means if you’re plugging into a standard wall charger at home, you’re looking at a few hours to get a decent top-up. For a full charge from empty, it could take a fair while, potentially over 6.5 hours for 10-80% on AC. DC fast charging is a bit quicker, getting up to 67 kW, which should get you from 10% to 80% in about 50 minutes. It’s not the fastest out there, but for its price point, it’s not too shabby.

Here’s a quick look at charging times:

Officially, the GWM Ora is rated for around 420 km WLTP. That sounds pretty good on paper, but like all EVs, your actual mileage will vary. Factors like how you drive, the weather (especially cold snaps), and whether you’re doing city driving with lots of stops or highway cruising will all play a part. Expect closer to 300-350 km in everyday Aussie conditions, which is generally fine for most daily commutes and even a decent weekend trip if you plan your stops. It’s worth remembering that the Ora is really designed for shorter trips, not epic cross-country adventures.

Real-world range can be a bit of a lottery, influenced by everything from the temperature outside to how heavy your right foot is. Don’t expect the WLTP figure to be your daily reality.

The Ora uses the standard CCS2 combo charging port, which is what you’ll find on most EVs in Australia. This means you can plug into pretty much any public charging station without needing an adapter. The port itself is located on the front passenger side of the car, which is a pretty common and convenient spot. It’s easy enough to access, whether you’re at home or out and about. If you’re looking into home charging solutions, you might want to check out EV charger installation options to make things even easier.

When you’re looking at buying any car, especially an EV, the warranty and service plan are pretty important. GWM backs the Ora with a decent warranty package. You get a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for the battery, which is pretty solid and should give you some peace of mind. The rest of the car is covered by a seven-year, 150,000-kilometre warranty. For servicing, it’s generally quite affordable. Expect around $127 for the first year or 15,000km, which is competitive in the EV space. This makes it a pretty low-cost option to keep running, which is a big plus.

The GWM Ora arrived with a bit of a splash, aiming to shake things up in the affordable EV market. Pricing kicked off around the $33,990 drive-away mark for the standard range model, with the extended range version nudging up to about $36,000. This puts it right up against rivals like the MG4 and BYD Dolphin. It’s a tough market, and there’s definitely a price war happening between these Chinese brands trying to grab a slice of the pie. Whether it hits the mark for local buyers is still being figured out.

Let’s talk about practicality. The Ora isn’t a massive car, so don’t expect cavernous boot space. It’s more suited for city driving and smaller loads. You’ve got your typical hatchback boot, which is fine for groceries or a couple of weekend bags. If you need to haul a lot of gear, you might find it a bit tight. The rear seats do fold down, which helps, but it’s still a compact car at heart. It’s something to consider if you regularly need to carry bulky items or have a growing family.

The EV market is heating up, and brands are trying to find their footing. While the Ora offers a unique style and a competitive price point, its success will depend on how well it appeals to the Australian market beyond just the initial cost. Building brand recognition and customer loyalty takes time and consistent effort, not just price adjustments.

Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up on price:

Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on options and dealer offers.

So, after all that, is the GWM Ora actually a smart buy for Aussies? It’s a bit of a mixed bag, really. On one hand, you’ve got this really unique styling that turns heads, and the interior, especially in the higher specs, feels pretty decent for the price point. It’s definitely not your average car on the road, which is a big plus if you want something a bit different.

The Ora isn’t for everyone, that’s for sure. If you’re after a no-fuss, everyday commuter that’s just going to get you from A to B without much fanfare, this might not be it. But, if you appreciate a bit of personality in your car, enjoy a comfortable ride, and are looking for an electric option that stands out from the crowd, then the Ora could be right up your alley. It’s also a good shout if you’re looking for a second EV and want something a bit more interesting than the usual suspects, especially if warranty and servicing are a concern with other brands like BYD/EVD.

Let’s break down what makes the Ora tick:

• Unique Styling: It’s undeniably cute and quirky. You’ll get noticed, and not in a bad way. The ‘Funky Cat’ nickname overseas isn’t just for show.
• Comfortable Interior: The cabin generally feels good, with nice materials in places. Some reviews even mention massage seats in higher trims, which is a nice touch.
• Ride Quality: It’s been praised for its comfortable ride, making it pleasant for daily driving.
• Value (with discounts): While list prices can seem a bit steep, there have been reports of significant discounts, making it a more attractive proposition.

Now for the not-so-great bits:

• Infotainment: The touchscreen can be a bit fiddly, with small icons that are hard to hit while you’re driving.
• Driver Assistance Systems: Some of the safety tech, like lane-keeping assist, can be a bit overzealous and annoying. It’s improved, but still not perfect.
• Boot Space: It’s on the smaller side compared to rivals like the MG4 or BYD Dolphin. If you haul a lot of gear, this could be an issue.
• No Frunk: Like some competitors, there’s no extra storage space under the bonnet.

When you’re weighing up the GWM Ora, it’s important to look beyond just the sticker price. The real value often comes down to the deals you can find and how well the car fits your specific needs. It’s a car that tries to offer a bit of everything, but it doesn’t always nail every aspect perfectly. Think about what’s most important to you in an EV – is it the looks, the tech, the practicality, or the overall driving experience? The Ora shines in some areas and is a bit weaker in others, so it really depends on your priorities. It’s a car that’s trying to build its brand, and that takes time and can mean some interesting pricing strategies for solopreneurs or families alike.

Ultimately, the GWM Ora is a car that sparks conversation. It’s not the most polished EV out there, but its distinctive character and improving value proposition make it a contender for those who want something a little bit different. Just be prepared for some quirks along the way.

So, is the GWM Ora a smart buy for Aussies? It’s definitely a car that stands out, and for good reason. If you’re after something a bit different, with a comfy interior and a focus on city driving, the Ora could tick a lot of boxes. It’s got a great warranty and super cheap servicing, which is a big plus. However, if you plan on doing lots of long trips or need heaps of storage, you might want to look elsewhere. The charging speed isn’t the fastest, and some of the tech can be a bit fiddly. It’s a solid option for a second car or for someone who mostly drives around town. Just make sure you test drive it and see if its unique style and quirks work for you.

The GWM Ora is pretty good to drive, especially around town. It rides nicely, meaning it soaks up bumps well. It’s not built for super-fast cornering like a sports car, but it gets up to speed easily when you need it to. It feels comfortable on most roads.

Yeah, the inside of the Ora is a strong point. It looks modern and feels pretty well put together. Some reviews mention it feels a bit more upmarket than you might expect for the price, which is a nice surprise.

The Ora isn’t the fastest when it comes to charging. Going from a low battery to about 80% full using a fast charger takes around 40-50 minutes. This means longer trips might involve more waiting time.

GWM offers a really good warranty for the Ora. You get 7 years with no kilometre limit, and the battery is covered for 8 years, also with no kilometre limit. That’s quite a bit better than some competitors.

Some drivers find the safety systems, like the lane-keeping assist, a bit too sensitive and prone to beeping unnecessarily. While GWM has made improvements, they can still be a bit overeager at times, which might get on your nerves.

Considering its price, the Ora packs in a lot of features and has that long warranty. The servicing is also super cheap. It’s a strong contender if you’re looking for an affordable electric car, but you do need to weigh up the slower charging and some tech quirks against the price.