429bhp Changan Deepal S05 Set for UK Arrival

429bhp Changan Deepal S05 Set for UK Arrival image

Changan will launch its second electric vehicle in the UK on March 1 – the Deepal S05 – just six months after the automaker’s debut with the larger S07 model.

The compact SUV delivers up to 303 miles of range and matches performance figures from premium sports cars. Pricing starts at £37,990 for the rear-wheel-drive version.

That positions the S05 against rivals like the Kia EV3, Skoda Elroq and BYD Atto 3 Evo in terms of cost.

Performance and Power Options

Changan offers the S05 with two powertrain configurations – something the larger S07 doesn’t provide.

The entry-level RWD Max uses a 268bhp rear motor with 214lb ft of torque. AWD Max models add a front motor for all-wheel-drive capability and 429bhp total output with 370lb ft.

The all-wheel-drive version accelerates from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds.

Both variants use the same 68.8kWh battery pack. Range drops to 278 miles in the dual-motor configuration due to the added power and weight.

The battery supports 200kW fast charging – among the fastest rates available in this vehicle class.

Aircraft-Inspired Design

The automaker says aircraft and space flight influenced the S05’s design philosophy.

External styling features include flush door handles and frameless doors for reduced air resistance. The “intelligent cockpit” takes inspiration from aviation controls.

A fighter jet-style augmented reality head-up display replaces traditional gauges across all trim levels. The passenger seat includes a “zero gravity” reclining function with an extendable leg rest – designed to mimic astronaut seating positions during spaceflight.

The steering wheel design mirrors aircraft control systems, according to Changan.

Standard Equipment

All S05 models come in a single Max specification level that includes:

  • Vegan leather upholstery
  • Heated and cooled front seats
  • 14-speaker audio system
  • Rotating 15.4-inch touchscreen
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • 540-degree parking camera system

Only two options are available – a £1,000 panoramic sunroof and a £600 detachable tow bar.

The AWD Max costs £39,990, representing a £2,000 premium over the single-motor variant for the additional performance and all-weather capability.

At 4.6 meters long, the S05 sits between compact crossovers like the EV3 and larger models such as the Volkswagen ID.4 in terms of size – though it’s priced closer to the smaller vehicles.

Nash Peterson avatar
Nash Peterson