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.
Comfort first, tech-led, but not one for keen drivers
I had the Changan Deepal S07 for a few days, and it left a strong impression. Not because it thrilled me behind the wheel, but because it shows just how far Chinese EV brands have come in a short space of time. This is a car that puts comfort, tech and ease of use front and centre. If you like a relaxed drive and a calm cabin, it does a lot very well. If you love the feel of driving, this may not quite land.
Quick facts at a glance
Price: £39,990 OTR
Battery: 79.97kWh
Power: 160kW (218hp)
Range: up to 295 miles
0 to 60mph: 7.9 seconds
Drive: Rear wheel drive
Towing capacity: 1,500kg
Boot: 510 litres
Frunk: 125 litres
First impressions and design
I think the Deepal S07 looks smart. It has a clean, modern shape with a coupe-SUV silhouette that feels right on trend without trying too hard. The sculpted lines, fastback rear and flush door handles give it a sleek, premium feel.
The full-width LED light bar front and rear looks great at night and gives the car a distinctive face. The star-inspired paint colours are a nice touch too. Sunset Orange and Nebula Green really stand out, while Comet White and Eclipse Black keep things more subtle.
You also get a lot of choice without paying extra.
Five exterior colours
Three interior trims
19 or 20 inch wheels
All included as standard, which is refreshing.
Interior and comfort
Step inside and this is where the S07 really shines.
The cabin feels airy, modern and well finished. Materials are soft to the touch, the design is clean, and nothing feels cheap. It punches above its price point in terms of perceived quality.
The panoramic glass roof floods the cabin with light, and the electric sunshade keeps things comfortable on bright days. Ambient lighting and the various cabin modes make it feel more like a lounge than a traditional car interior.
However, the seats are a mixed bag.
They are heated and ventilated, electrically adjustable, and very comfortable at first. But they feel more like a sofa than a supportive driving seat. There is no under-thigh tilt adjustment, which I really missed. On shorter journeys they are lovely. On a long motorway run, I am not convinced they would offer enough support.
If you value comfort over cornering confidence, you will probably love them. If you like to feel held in place, you might not.
Technology and infotainment
Tech is clearly a big focus here.
The 15.6 inch rotating touchscreen is a real talking point. It can swivel towards the driver or passenger, and it looks sharp and responsive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which is essential these days.
The AR head-up display replaces a traditional instrument cluster, projecting speed, navigation and safety info directly onto the windscreen. Once you get used to it, it works well and keeps your eyes up and on the road.
Other highlights include:
40W wireless phone charging
14-speaker premium sound system
360 degree camera with transparent chassis view
Multifunction rear touchscreen
Bluetooth phone key
There are also loads of novelty but useful modes like nap mode, camping mode, car wash mode and even pet detection. Some will use them daily, others will try them once and smile, but it all adds to the sense of a tech-forward car.
One downside is that some system elements are not fully localised, and parts of the adaptive cruise and menus do not yet feel completely polished for UK use.
On the road
This is where the S07 shows its character, and where opinions will split.
It is very easy to drive. Steering is light, visibility is good, and everything feels calm and predictable. Around town and on the motorway it is effortless. Adaptive cruise control, lane assistance and driver aids take the stress out of longer journeys.
But it feels floaty.
The best way I can describe it is that it feels less like driving a car and more like steering a very good computer game. The steering is accurate, but numb. The suspension prioritises comfort, but there is a softness that removes road feel entirely.
If you are after a driver’s car, this is not it. There is no sense of engagement or feedback. You point it where you want to go, and it goes there, quietly and competently.
For many buyers, that will be exactly the point.
Performance and efficiency
With 218hp and a 0 to 60 time of 7.9 seconds, it is quick enough for everyday driving. It never feels slow, but it never feels sporty either.
The claimed 295 mile range is competitive for the class, and the large battery should make it a strong long-distance cruiser, especially with its comfortable ride and quiet cabin.
This feels like a car designed to make EV ownership easy, not exciting.
Space and practicality
The S07 is a big car, and it uses its space well.
Rear legroom is generous thanks to the long wheelbase
The boot is a useful 510 litres
The frunk adds another 125 litres
Rear seats fold 60:40
It would work well for families, company car drivers, or anyone needing space without stepping up to something huge.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety tech is comprehensive.
You get front collision warning, emergency braking, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and more. Parking is made easy with the 360 degree camera and parking aids.
It all works quietly in the background and adds to the relaxed driving experience.
Rivals
The obvious competitors are the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y.
Compared to those, the Deepal S07 feels:
More comfort-focused than the Ioniq 5
Less engaging but more lounge-like than the Model Y
Very strong on standard equipment for the price
It may not have the brand recognition yet, but on paper and in the cabin, it absolutely belongs in the conversation.
Changan Deepal S07
Ben Freakley
Performance: How quick it feels day to day. Power, throttle response and smoothness.
Handling: How it corners and how stable it feels on different roads.
Comfort: Ride quality, seating, refinement and road noise.
Ease of Use: How simple the cockpit is. Buttons vs touch. Clear menus. Good ergonomics.
Space and Practicality: Boot size, rear room, storage, access, visibility.
Running Costs: Real world range, charging speed, fuel use, tax, servicing.
Build Quality: Materials, fit and finish, how solid it feels inside.
Value for Money: How much car you get for the price.
Summary
The Changan Deepal S07 is a comfortable, tech-packed electric SUV that makes a strong case for itself. It looks good, it feels premium inside, it is easy and relaxing to drive.
But it is not a car for people who love driving. If you want feedback, engagement and involvement, you will probably find it a bit detached. If you want a calm, comfortable, well-equipped EV that feels like a mobile living room, this could be right up your street.
It is a clear sign that brands like Changan are not just catching up, they are setting their own agenda.
3.8
FAQ’s
Is the Changan Deepal S07 available in the UK?
The Deepal S07 has been shown and driven in the UK, but full sales availability and dealer rollout are still to be confirmed.
What is the real-world range of the Changan Deepal S07?
The official range is up to 295 miles. In mixed driving, a real-world range closer to 240 to 260 miles is realistic, depending on speed, temperature and driving style.
How fast is the Changan Deepal S07?
The Deepal S07 produces 218hp and can accelerate from 0 to 60mph in around 7.9 seconds. It feels smooth and responsive rather than sporty.
Is the Changan Deepal S07 fun to drive?
The S07 is very easy and relaxing to drive, but it is not aimed at keen drivers. The steering and suspension prioritise comfort over engagement, so it can feel floaty on the road.
How comfortable is the Deepal S07 on long journeys?
The ride is soft and quiet, which suits motorway driving well. The seats are comfortable but lack under-thigh support, which may affect comfort on longer trips for some drivers.
What technology does the Deepal S07 come with as standard?
Standard equipment includes a 15.6 inch rotating touchscreen, AR head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 360 degree camera, wireless phone charging and a premium sound system.
How practical is the Changan Deepal S07?
It offers a 510 litre boot, a 125 litre front boot, good rear legroom and a 60:40 folding rear seat, making it suitable for families and everyday use.
How does the Deepal S07 compare to the Tesla Model Y?
The Deepal S07 focuses more on comfort and interior quality, while the Model Y feels firmer and more performance-oriented. The S07 also includes more features as standard.
How much does the Changan Deepal S07 cost?
At £39,990 on the road, the S07 offers a high level of standard equipment with no extra cost for colours, wheels or interior trims, making it competitive against established electric SUV rivals and as of December 2025, is available for as little as £339 per month on a personal lease at Rivervale.
