Changan Deepal S05: A New Chinese Contender in the UK Electric SUV Market
The influx of Chinese automotive brands into the British market shows no signs of abating, with Changan being the latest manufacturer to establish a presence. Following the launch of the Deepal S07 last year, the company has now introduced the Deepal S05, a mid-size electric SUV designed to compete directly with established rivals like the Skoda Elroq and Kia EV5. Priced from £37,990, this newcomer promises competitive pricing and generous standard equipment, but does it deliver a compelling package?
Brand Heritage and Platform Technology
While Changan may be unfamiliar to many UK drivers, it is one of China's most established car manufacturers, with 45 years of production experience. The Deepal S05 represents the brand's latest offering, featuring contemporary design elements including a minimalist cabin and aircraft-inspired exterior styling. The vehicle rides on Changan's versatile 'CPA' multi-energy platform, which supports various powertrain options, including an upcoming plug-in hybrid variant.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
The Deepal S05 is available with a single 68.8kWh battery pack offered in two configurations. The rear-wheel drive version features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 268bhp and 290Nm of torque, enabling a 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. For those seeking enhanced performance, a dual-motor all-wheel drive variant delivers 418bhp and 502Nm of torque, with a claimed range of 278 miles on a single charge.
Charging capabilities are competitive, with support for rapid-charging at up to 200kW, allowing for a 30-80% charge in approximately 15 minutes. This positions the S05 favorably against many rivals in terms of charging convenience.
Driving Dynamics and On-Road Behavior
Behind the wheel, the Deepal S05 presents as a competent but unremarkable vehicle. The steering responds adequately at initial input but lacks feedback and feels vague during more dynamic maneuvers. Ride comfort is generally good, though the suspension struggles to maintain composure on uneven road surfaces.
Refinement stands out as a particular strength, with minimal wind and road noise entering the cabin. The instant torque delivery from the electric motor provides smooth, seamless acceleration. However, the absence of a regenerative braking system represents a missed opportunity for enhanced efficiency, while rearward visibility is compromised by a narrow rear window and tall headrests.
Exterior Design and Styling Cues
The Deepal S05 follows conventional SUV styling trends but incorporates distinctive aviation-inspired elements. The front headlights and bumper draw inspiration from aircraft wings, while flared wheel arches and a double waistline replicate a plane's fuselage. Additional design features include flush door handles, frameless window surrounds, arrow-shaped LED taillights, and a V-shaped spoiler at the rear.
Interior Layout and Practicality Features
Inside, the Deepal S05 adopts a typically Chinese approach with minimal physical buttons, creating a clean, contemporary appearance. This minimalist design comes at the cost of intuitiveness, as operating basic functions while driving can prove challenging without tactile controls.
Practicality is a clear strength, with Changan claiming 34 separate storage spaces throughout the cabin. The vehicle lacks a traditional glovebox but compensates with an exceptionally large and deep center console storage compartment. Additional storage includes space beneath the floating center console, two cupholders, two wireless phone chargers, and door bins that are somewhat narrow.
Rear passenger accommodation is reasonable, with good headroom even when the optional panoramic sunroof is fitted. The flat floor allows three passengers to sit comfortably side-by-side, while foot space beneath the front seats is generous. Cargo capacity measures 492 litres in the boot, exceeding the Skoda Elroq's 470 litres, expanding to 1,250 litres with the rear seats folded. An additional 28-litre underfloor compartment and 159-litre frunk further enhance the vehicle's versatility.
Equipment Levels and Pricing Structure
The Deepal S05 is offered in a single, well-equipped trim level with minimal optional extras. Standard features include a 15.4-inch infotainment display, keyless entry, wireless smartphone charging, a 14-speaker sound system, head-up display, and satellite navigation. The only available options are a glass panoramic sunroof and tow bar, with all five exterior color choices offered at no additional cost.
Pricing begins at £37,990 for the rear-wheel drive version, rising to £39,990 for the all-wheel drive model. This positions the Deepal S05 over £1,000 below the entry-level Kia EV5, while offering significantly more standard equipment for the money.
Overall Assessment and Market Position
The Changan Deepal S05 successfully ticks many boxes for buyers seeking a mid-size electric SUV, particularly those prioritizing value and equipment levels. However, it fails to deliver any groundbreaking innovations in an increasingly crowded market segment.
The vehicle's most significant shortcomings include uninspiring driving dynamics and an overly complex infotainment interface that lacks user-friendliness. Despite these limitations, the Deepal S05 represents a perfectly reasonable choice for practical-minded buyers, offering keen pricing, impressive standard specification, and a functional cabin. While it may not excite driving enthusiasts, it provides a competent, if somewhat mundane, option in the competitive electric SUV market.
