Changan Deepal S05: the £38k electric SUV that wants to take on the Elroq (and more)

Changan is back with another Deepal for the UK, and this one looks aimed right at what loads of people are shopping for in 2026: a compact electric SUV with decent range, punchy performance, fast charging, and a price that stays (just about) sensible.

It’s called the Deepal S05, and it follows the Deepal S07, which was Changan’s first big step into the UK market.

The basics: price, power, range

You get two versions:

  • RWD from £37,990
  • AWD from £39,995

The S05 sits in a seriously busy part of the market, with rivals including the Skoda Elroq and Kia EV3.

Both versions use a 68.8kWh LFP battery, with claimed range of:

  • Up to 303 miles (RWD, WLTP)
  • Up to 278 miles (AWD, WLTP)

Charging is rated at up to 200kW DC, with claims of a rapid top-up in roughly 15 minutes from 30% to 80% on a suitable charger.

Why the AWD model looks like the headline act

If you want the quicker one, it’s the AWD:

  • 0 to 62mph in 5.5 seconds
  • 112mph top speed

That’s properly lively for something pitched as a family SUV. Not a hot hatch replacement, but it should feel quick enough to keep you smiling.

Interior and usability: the bit I want to test for myself

The cabin sounds like it’s going for that clean, modern, tech-first vibe. The headline feature is a big 15.4-inch central touchscreen, and it can tilt to help reduce glare.

My big question is the same one I have with a lot of new cars: how much of the everyday stuff gets buried in menus? On paper it looks smart. In real life, it can make or break the experience.

Space and practicality

Storage looks strong for a compact SUV:

  • 492-litre boot
  • 159-litre frunk (front boot)
  • Loads of cabin storage (handy for cables, bottles, and all the usual life clutter)

I haven’t driven the S05 yet

I haven’t had seat time in the S05 so far, but I’m hoping to get behind the wheel in the next couple of months. When I do, I’ll be focusing on:

  • Ride comfort on rough UK roads
  • Real-world efficiency and motorway range
  • Whether the infotainment is slick or a constant faff
  • How the AWD system feels in normal driving, not just perfect conditions

Want a Changan Deepal fix right now?

I recently reviewed the Changan Deepal S07 on the Rivervale YouTube channel. If you want a feel for how Changan does design, cabin ambience and tech, that video is a good place to start.

If you’re thinking about one on a personal or business lease, keep an eye on the S05 as it lands. And if you want to compare it against what you can lease right now, you can browse current electric SUV deals through Rivervale.

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