Changan bolsters its premium electrified SUV range with the Deepal S05 REEV. As the price of fuel in South Africa remains volatile, this new-energy mode of mobility is becoming more viable for local buyers. We sample the newcomer in Cape Town. First impressions here…
What are we driving and why is it significant?
The Changan Deepal S05 REEV is a midsize SUV, which, in South Africa, is exclusively available with an REEV (range-extended electric vehicle) powertrain. The REEV setup – which pairs a single electric motor with a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, the latter serving as a generator for the battery – aims to merge affordability with fuel efficiency. The S05 features Italian-inspired exterior design and retains a luxurious cabin experience.
The Deepal sub-brand focuses on efficiency first and showcases future technologies can coexist with nature and humanity. The division executes this with a software-heavy user experience. It incorporates a host of digital and smart safety systems. The end result is a comprehensive user experience. Drivers benefit from good comfort and convenience levels. You must learn to deal with the overbearing technical features, though.
Changan’s stiking Italian-inspired design philosophy
Changan acquired the services of Klaus Zyciorra for the Deepal S05. He previously led the Volkswagen Group design team. The Chinese brand also invested in a Turin-based design facility. This achieved a more authentic European design language. The result is a striking exterior that slices through the air with a 0.25 drag coefficient. The final product secured an iF Design Award. It also won the Best Human-Centric Intelligent Integration award at the Turin Automotive Design Awards.
Our test unit features Moonlight White paint. Additional colour options include Ganymede Grey, Mercury Silver, Deep Space Black, and Starry Blue. Exterior highlights include narrow LED headlamps, frameless door pillars, and flush door handles. The rear hosts signature star wing taillamps. The roof incorporates a panoramic glass roof. Aerodynamic 20-inch dual-tone wheels complement the package.
An impressively refined interior layout
The interior continues the sleek design philosophy. Upholstery is a standout feature, especially in the orange shade. This gives off a Terracotta look that works well with the Italian-inspired layout. The dashboard and centre console adopt a minimalist approach. A 15.4-inch “Sunflower” rotating touchscreen controls main functions. A Snapdragon 8155-powered augmented-reality head-up display (HUD) replaces the conventional instrument cluster.
The Deepal S05 masters perceived build quality. Major touchpoints remain free of creaks and rattles. Anodised metal switches control the windows and door handles. Multifunction analogue switchgear on the steering wheel act as satisfying touchpoints. The electrically adjustable driver and passenger seats offer good comfort, and benefit from heating and ventilation. A 2 880 mm wheelbase and the lack of a rear driveline result in an expansive rear passenger footwell. A convenient retractable armrest accompanies the space.
The Deepal S05 provides an abundance of storage facilities. These include a cooled compartment beneath the armrest, twin cupholders, a phone tray with wireless charging, and a lower storage tunnel. Door card bins and a glove compartment complete the storage options.
A software-derived user experience
The central control terminal manages all functions seamlessly via an intuitive interface. The pivoting arm improves usability. It angles towards your seating position when you climb in. You can adjust this angle towards the centre or front passenger. Replacing the instrument cluster with a comprehensive HUD decreases distractions, allowing you to fully concentrate on the road.
Changan incorporates wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system features integrated apps and is paired with a 14-speaker audio system. It offers multiple audio profiles for an immersive sound experience. A custom hooter option lets you record specific audio. This sounds via an exterior speaker at low speeds. Changan’s decision to make the Deepal S05 a smart experience follows modern trends. However, some design decisions lead to a frustrating user experience.
NVH levels and standard safety systems are comprehensive
The Deepal S05 achieves low NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels. This stems from its low drag coefficient and well-insulated cabin. Wind and road noise remain minimal at cruising speeds. The engine is barely noticeable when it kicks in to provide energy under heavier driving loads. The brand fits the SUV with a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The latter includes adaptive cruise control. Airbags cover the front, knees, sides, and curtains in the event of a collision.
What does the Changan Deepal S05 REEV cost?
Changan secures a strong value proposition with the Deepal S05 REEV at R699 000. This price includes a five-year/90 000 km service plan. You also get a five-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/150 000 km battery warranty. A maintenance plan is available as an option.
What are the Changan Deepal S05’s rivals?
The Deepal S05 takes aim at the Leapmotor C10 REEV and BYD Sealion 6. The Leapmotor C10 REEV matches total distance closely, with a combined range of over 970 km. It produces slightly less power, though, at 158 kW. The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i outperforms both in system output; providing 160 kW in front-wheel-drive guise and reaching up to 253 kW in all-wheel-drive configuration. The BYD offers a comparable overall range of 1 080 km.
What is the Changan Deepal S05 like to drive?
The Deepal S05 features a single electric motor on the rear axle. This unit produces 160 kW and 320 Nm of torque. The SUV achieves a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 8.0 seconds. It reaches a limited top speed of 175 km/h. The 1.5-litre engine generates 72 kW and 125 N.m. None of the engine’s power is transferred directly to the wheels. The drive is smooth and responsive to throttle inputs. This performance is expected for an EV platform.
The S05 shines bright in its handling and comfort levels. A MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension setup keeps things composed across urban and highway surfaces, offering an engaging drive. Refinement remains the primary focus. Body roll increases if you tackle corners with enthusiasm, with a near 2 200 kg claimed kerb weight contributing to this. Drive the S05 in a relaxed fashion, and you will find no issues with its dynamic characteristics.
Efficiency and range are strong suits for this Chinese SUV. A compact, 27.28 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pairs with a 55-litre petrol tank. You can easily cover beyond 900 km without stopping to recharge or refuel in extra-urban driving conditions.
Verdict
The Changan Deepal S05 is a well-executed premium EV that proves cost-effective to run. Its competitive starting price makes it an appealing package. It features a generous standard equipment list, high interior quality, and a silent drive. An overbearing focus on software requires a learning curve for daily driving functions. Beyond this, it remains a well-rounded experience with visual presence and a satisfying cabin layout.
Changan Deepal S05 REEV specifications
- Price: R699 000
- Powertrain: single permanent magnet synchronous electric motor + 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
- Transmission: direct-drive single-speed automatic
- Driven wheels: rear
- Power: 160 kW
- Torque: 320 N.m
- Fuel consumption: 1.7 L/100 km (combined; claimed)
- Energy consumption: 15.9 kWh/100 km (claimed)
