Changan Deepal S07 test drive

Changan Deepal S07 is a mid-sized electric SUV designed to combine sleek design, advanced technology, and practical range with a competitive price point. The S07 comes with a single powertrain option: a rear-wheel drive electric motor producing 160 kW (218 hp) and 320 Nm of torque, paired with an 80 kWh battery that delivers up to 295 miles of range. It can accelerate from 0–60 mph in 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 112 mph. Charging from 10% to 80% at public fast chargers takes about 48 minutes, and the SUV features a vehicle-to-load function to power external devices.

The exterior is minimalist, with subtle design cues like a ‘crystal sculpture’ LED light signature. The interior is equally simple yet high-quality, featuring a 17-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, a head-up display projecting essential driving information, a panoramic sunroof, and a 14-speaker audio system. The cabin is spacious for passengers, with 445 litres of boot space and an additional 125 litres in the front storage compartment (‘frunk’). Driver aids include gesture controls, a 360-degree parking camera system, and a range of accident-avoidance technologies using 16 sensors, six radar-activated.

The Deepal S07 delivers a comfortable ride for everyday driving, though the suspension can feel soft over rough surfaces, and the steering lacks feedback. Regenerative braking is modest, with no one-pedal driving mode. Despite these minor drawbacks, the SUV offers smooth, silent electric power and sufficient performance for overtaking and highway driving.

Safety has been a key focus, with Euro NCAP awarding a full five-star rating in 2024. Warranty coverage is generous: seven years or 100,000 miles for the vehicle and eight years or 120,000 miles for the battery. Optional extras are minimal, with a single electrically deployable towbar available, which increases the overall cost slightly due to extra road tax.

The S07 comes in a single specification with five exterior colors and three interior options, ensuring simplicity in pricing and purchase. Standard equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging with cooling, advanced infotainment features, and seasonal ‘Easter eggs’ on the digital display. The SUV aims to combine practicality, technology, and quality to offer strong value for money, positioning itself against competitors such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq, Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, and Peugeot 3008.

On the road, the Deepal S07 feels spacious and well-insulated, with smooth power delivery and quiet operation. The flush-fit door handles help reduce wind noise, although frameless windows allow some intrusion at higher speeds. The head-up display provides key driving information efficiently, and the touchscreen is responsive, though some functions like wipers and lights require swiping through menus rather than traditional stalks, which may take adjustment.

Overall, the Changan Deepal S07 represents a solid entry into the mid-sized electric SUV market. It offers a high level of equipment, quality interior and exterior finishes, a practical electric range, and a competitive price, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking an accessible yet well-equipped EV. Minor criticisms such as touchscreen complexity, modest regenerative braking, and soft suspension do not outweigh its overall value and appeal, especially for those prioritizing comfort, technology, and everyday usability.

Specifications

  • Engine: Single electric motor, rear-wheel drive

  • Gearbox: Automatic

  • Power: 160 kW / 218 hp

  • Torque: 320 Nm

  • Top speed: 112 mph

  • 0–60 mph: 7.9 seconds

  • Range: 295 miles (WLTP)

  • CO2 emissions: 0 g/km

  • Euro NCAP safety rating: Five stars

  • Price: 39,990

  • Warranty: 7 years / 100,000 miles (vehicle), 8 years / 120,000 miles (battery)

The Deepal S07 is a well-rounded mid-sized EV that combines style, practicality, and technology, offering buyers a competitive alternative to other established electric SUVs on the market.

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