The Changan Deepal S07 is a compelling new electric vehicle designed to challenge established players like Tesla and Polestar. While many Chinese EVs lean towards futuristic designs, the S07 distinguishes itself with a more European-influenced aesthetic – a strategic move to broaden its appeal in export markets. This crossover-wagon offers a refined look, solid build quality, and a surprisingly practical interior, making it a serious contender for buyers seeking a well-equipped EV without the over-the-top styling often seen from competitors.
Core Specifications and Design
The S07 shares its platform (EPA1) with the smaller Deepal S05 but stands out in key dimensions, closely mirroring the Tesla Model Y in size. It’s powered by a single 215bhp permanent magnet synchronous motor driving the rear wheels. Weighing in at 2,100kg, it’s comparable in mass to the Tesla Model Y and Polestar 2. The car features a conventional all-steel chassis and a nickel-manganese-cobalt battery with 80kWh total capacity (75kWh usable), providing competitive range without pushing boundaries.
The exterior design avoids the aggressively futuristic styling of some Chinese EVs, opting instead for a more understated yet sophisticated look. The car’s surfacing is sculpted, and its detailing is refined, suggesting a focus on broader market acceptance.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the S07 offers a minimalist yet well-built cabin. The design incorporates common modern elements but avoids excessive clutter, keeping controls straightforward. A notable omission is a traditional instrument screen, which is replaced by a color head-up display with augmented reality navigation – a smart move for maintaining driver focus.
The centerpiece is a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with customizable shortcut bars for quick access to frequently used functions. The system’s gesture recognition and voice control are responsive, though navigation destination recognition could be improved. Unique features include novel operating modes designed for pet owners or overnight campers, showcasing the car’s versatility.
The 14-speaker audio system is powerful and clear, with headrest speakers for private phone calls. The interior materials are decent, with optional white or orange upholstery to break up the usual black.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
On the road, the S07 delivers adequate performance – 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds – but doesn’t excel in outright speed. The power delivery is progressive, making for smooth acceleration, though it lacks the urgency of some rivals.
The car offers four drive modes (Comfort, Eco, Sport, Customize) allowing drivers to tailor the experience. Regenerative braking is adjustable via the touchscreen but lacks a full one-pedal mode. The steering is electromechanical, and the suspension uses conventional struts and a multi-link axle with coil springs and passive dampers.
While not a sports car, the S07 provides decent drivability and refinement. Its rear-wheel-drive layout offers a dynamic advantage over some front-wheel-drive competitors.
Range and Charging
The S07 achieves an acceptable but not outstanding range of approximately 240 miles in touring conditions (3.2mpkWh). City driving yields slightly better results at 285 miles (3.8mpkWh). DC rapid charging speeds average 63kW, slower than the Tesla Model Y and Xpeng G6.
Pricing and Value
The S07’s key advantage is its pricing: it is positioned below £40,000 with no costly options, making it attractive to both retail buyers and company car fleets. The well-equipped standard trim avoids expensive road tax supplements in the UK, further enhancing its value proposition.
The Deepal S07 offers a compelling blend of value, practicality, and refinement. It presents a strong alternative to European-made EVs, offering similar features at a lower price point.
The Deepal S07 isn’t a revolutionary vehicle, but it’s a well-executed one. It addresses the growing demand for affordable, well-equipped EVs without sacrificing quality or usability. Its European-influenced design and smart technology choices position it as a serious competitor in the crowded EV market.
