Omoda C5 vs BAIC BEIJING X55 vs Haval Jolion S: Which one has the best infotainment system?

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Omoda C5 vs BAIC BEIJING X55 vs Haval Jolion S: Which one has the best infotainment system?

February 29, 2024

Deciding between three shortlisted, new crossovers can sometimes come down to something as simple as the infotainment system. We compare the systems found in the Omoda C5 to the Havao Jolion and BAIC BEIJING X55 to see which one offers the most. The comprehensive and robust infotainment systems are one of the drawcards in the latest run of Chinese SUV and crossover offerings. These feature-packed units enhance the driving experience and transcend the simple Bluetooth connection one would typically expect. Large touchscreens and a selection of connectivity options make these powerhouses the final deciding factor in a number of purchases. If the functionality and features of an infotainment system are important to you and your car-buying decisions, then we can help you decide which one is best for you. We're comparing three of the more alternative crossover choices, all three similarly priced. The Omoda C5 in Elegance trim goes up against the BAIC BEIJING X55 Premium and the more commonplace Haval Jolion S Super Luxury.

Omoda C5 Elegance

Price: R507 900

The Omoda C5 Elegance comes with a large, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that is tied to a second 10.25-inch screen in front of the driver, creating a large, widescreen cockpit with interconnectivity between the two screens. This will allow certain tasks and functions to be displayed on the driver's screen.

The system features wireless connectivity for smartphone screen mirroring and both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. Should you wish, a Bluetooth connection is also available, as is USB input. Wireless charging takes place on a convenient, tilted shelf that allows your phone to be displayed ahead of the gear selector. A large volume knob is located in the centre console and allows for powering on the system as well. This complements the touch interface and multifunction steering wheel. Alternatively, the Chery-based voice control can be used with natural speech and accent detection. Audio is reproduced by a Sony 8-speaker audio system with 3D sound functionality.

BAIC BEIJING X55 Premium

Price: R489 900

The BAIC BEIJING X55 comes in as the cheapest of the three compared here, and is fitted with a floating 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This unit has standout features like WiFi connectivity and an 8speaker audio system but leaves very little else to be desired. Screen mirroring is only possible through the use of a third-party app called CarbitLink and it doesn't have support for Apple iPhone. Connectivity with an Android device was also troublesome. The fallback is the Bluetooth connection or USB input. All interaction and control is via the touchscreen or through the multifunction steering wheel. While it does feature reverse camera functionality, this is our least preferred system.

Haval Jolion S Super Luxury

Price: R496 950

The Haval Jolion S offers a little more power from the engine, but the infotainment system isn't too bad either. This variant is equipped with a 12.3-inch widescreen touchscreen infotainment system. This unit offers smartphone tethering with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging for suitable devices is also included.

While a single power button is provided, this unit has no other tactile interfaces, and control is only via the touchscreen or multifunction steering wheel, causing some concern when screen mirroring is used, especially when looking to adjust the HVAC settings. One must first exit the mobile interface before being able to make any adjustments. This unit does, however, also provide Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free telephony, as well as a USB input option. The Jolion is available with a 6-speaker audio system.

Which BAIC is right for me?