The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape is expanding rapidly as Chinese manufacturers establish their presence. While Changan is a newcomer to British roads, it is far from a novice in the automotive world; as China’s oldest car manufacturer, the company brings significant heritage, supported by R&D in Birmingham and design expertise in Turin, Italy.
The Deepal S05 represents Changan’s strategic push into the mid-sized, family-friendly SUV segment—a highly contested space currently occupied by players like the Kia EV3, BYD Atto 3, and Volkswagen ID.5.
Зміст
Performance and Technical Specifications
The Deepal S05 is offered in two distinct configurations, both powered by a 68.6kWh battery. This dual-track approach allows buyers to choose between efficiency and raw power:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Produces 268bhp and 214lb-ft of torque, delivering a 0–62mph sprint in 7.5 seconds. This version prioritates range, offering a claimed 303 miles on a single charge.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A high-performance option delivering 429bhp and 370lb-ft of torque, cutting the 0–62mph time to just 5.5 seconds, though the claimed range drops to 278 miles.
For those concerned with charging downtime, the S05 supports 200kW DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 15 minutes.
Design: Aerodynamics Meets Minimalism
Visually, the S05 breaks away from the bulky aesthetic of traditional SUVs. It features a highly streamlined profile with a drag coefficient of just 0.25, which is essential for maximizing electric efficiency. Key design elements include:
– A sleek, grille-free front end with slim LED lighting.
– Modern frameless doors and flush handles.
– A minimalist, tech-heavy interior.
Inside, the cabin is dominated by a 15.4-inch touchscreen that features an innovative tilting mechanism, allowing it to angle toward either the driver or the passenger. While the interior utilizes premium materials like vegan leather and soft-touch surfaces, the “all-digital” philosophy means there is a notable absence of physical buttons. Users must navigate the touchscreen for even basic tasks, such as adjusting wing mirrors.
Practicality and “Lifestyle” Features
The S05 is designed with family utility in mind, offering a spacious rear cabin and a versatile boot.
– Storage: 492 litres of boot space (expandable to 1,250 litres with seats folded) and a 159-litre “frunk” (front trunk) for charging cables.
– Passenger Comfort: The “Queen’s Seat” allows the front passenger to recline into a near-flat, business-class position.
– Rest Mode: A unique feature that reclines the driver’s seat, allowing for relaxation during charging sessions.
Note: Despite the high level of tech, the vehicle lacks a traditional glovebox, a minor but notable omission in an otherwise practical layout.
Driving Dynamics and Real-World Efficiency
On the road, the Deepal S05 leans toward a “wafty” and comfortable ride. It excels at cruising and absorbing most road imperfections, though it can feel unsettled during aggressive cornering or when hitting deep potholes. The steering is light and easy for urban driving, though it lacks heavy feedback.
In real-world testing, efficiency remains a critical factor. While the manufacturer claims up to 303 miles, actual performance hovered around 3.5 miles/kWh, suggesting a real-world range closer to 250 miles. While respectable, this places it slightly behind some rivals with larger battery capacities.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Changan has prioritized safety, securing a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. This is bolstered by an extensive suite of driver assistance technologies. To encourage long-term adoption in the UK, the brand offers a robust warranty package:
– 7-year / 100,000-mile general warranty.
– 8-year / 124,000-mile battery warranty.
The Bottom Line: The Changan Deepal S05 is a polished, competitively priced contender that balances striking design with practical family features, making it a strong option for those looking to move into the electric SUV market.
