Changan Deepal S05 (2026 - )

If you've been following the changes in the UK automotive sector lately, you may have observed a growing presence of Chinese brands carving out their niche.

Among the newcomers are BYD, Jaecoo, and Omoda. Additionally, brands like GWM Ora, Xpeng, Leapmotor, and Chery are also part of this evolving mix. Chery, as the parent company of Jaecoo and Omoda, is actively promoting vehicles under its own label as well - though this list is by no means exhaustive.

One brand that might still be unknown to many is Changan. Having made its entrance to the UK in September 2025, it carries a legacy that harks back over 160 years, predating the motor car itself.

Originally established to supply arms to military forces, Changan later transitioned into vehicle manufacturing. Over the years, it has formed alliances with well-known manufacturers like Suzuki, Ford, and Mazda, and has incorporated several smaller Chinese brands. Interestingly, the company also set up a research and development centre in Birmingham a few years ago.

Last year, Changan launched the S07, a mid-sized all-electric SUV, and is now introducing a smaller sibling - the compact crossover S05. But does it possess the capability to rival established competitors? Our motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay, investigates.

The rear-wheel-drive version of the S05 is under review here, and it's two grand less expensive than its all-wheel-drive counterpart. Although it offers slightly less power, the performance still impresses with a respectable 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds.

In contrast, the all-wheel-drive variant cuts that time down by a full two seconds thanks to an additional 163PS; however, such performance may feel over the top for a car of this type. The rear-wheel-drive model should adequately satisfy most drivers' needs.

Acceleration is quick from a standstill, with power delivered smoothly. When cruising, overtaking is an effortless task, and the car rarely feels overwhelmed in any situation.

For those wanting more oomph, there's a Sport mode that boosts throttle response for enhanced acceleration. However, do note that performance begins to get a bit limp after 70mph, not that you should be exceeding the speed limit!

The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes, but the Deepal S05 can struggle to handle extremely bad roads because it can get unsettled at times. 

The light steering is perfect for manoeuvring through the slow-moving traffic common in town or village centres. Yet, while it does gain weight in corners, the switch between light and heavier steering feels somewhat lacking in responsiveness.

Getting used to the brake pedal can prove tricky because the regenerative braking system requires precise application. Without paddle shifters, adjustments to braking strength must be made via the infotainment system.

One of the neat features of the S05 is its superb soundproofing, creating a quiet cabin environment. Thicker glass and other design elements contribute significantly to this serene atmosphere.

Changan has stated that the Deepal S05 has been fine-tuned at its research and development centre in Birmingham to suit UK and European driving conditions. While there is still room for enhancements, this initial offering shows great potential.

The Deepal S05 certainly presents a visually appealing front. 

Its robust design is quite impressive, featuring a pronounced drop at the nose, a grille-less facade, and two distinct cheekbones that elegantly frame the lights, with the primary headlights positioned high at the edge of the bonnet.

There is an ample amount of cladding, while the sides boast a sleek silhouette, with the only noticeable crease located at the bottom of the doors.

The rear of the S05 is somewhat minimalistic; a lightbar extends across the full width just below the rear windscreen, but aside from that, the back end is relatively unremarkable. 

Crafted for optimum aerodynamic efficiency, the car has a drag coefficient of 0.25, putting it ahead of several competitors, though the Tesla Model Y has a slightly superior figure at 0.22.

The Deepal S05 is offered in a single trim variant. This model showcases striking 20-inch alloy wheels along with a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, digital radio, augmented-reality satellite navigation, and a 14-speaker audio system. It also includes voice control, 64-colour ambient lighting, and a wireless phone charging pad.

Additionally, you’ll discover faux-leather upholstery, complemented by a heated steering wheel. The front seats offer heating and ventilation with electric adjustment, and the S05 is equipped with sleek, flush door handles, a powered tailgate, and a head-up display. Standard features include keyless entry and a comprehensive 360-degree surround-view camera.

Vitally, the S05 underwent safety evaluation by Euro NCAP in 2025, earning the full five stars.

It achieved scores of 94% for the protection of adults, 87% for child safety, and 76% for safety assistance features. Notably, this latter category includes a robust arsenal of 17 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which comprise adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, emergency braking, lane change assistance, and lane departure warning.

Furthermore, it's equipped with forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear cross-traffic braking, traffic jam assistance, intelligent speed assistance, traffic sign recognition, driver fatigue detection, and high beam assist. In addition, the S05 features a 360-degree surround-view camera to enhance visibility.

Anyone expecting to be impressed by the cabin of the Deepal S05 is in for a delightful surprise.

The roomy interior is exquisitely designed, reflecting Changan's decision to have its aesthetics crafted in Italy, with thoughtful touches that truly stand out.

The synthetic leather upholstery is remarkable, and nearly everything feels pleasantly soft to the touch, imparting a sense of luxury.

Overall, it feels sturdy and well-assembled, although a few materials may seem somewhat cheap when examined closely beneath certain upholstery.

The flat-bottomed steering wheel feels fantastic to hold, adorned with a variety of buttons and stylish silver accents.

Finding a comfortable driving position in the Deepal S05 is effortless, thanks to the electric adjustments on the front seats, along with the driver's lumbar support and memory function. The front passenger's seat, affectionately known as the Queen's Seat, also features a powered leg rest.

Forward visibility is quite good, as the windscreen pillars are not overly thick. While the thicker rear pillars do limit rear visibility somewhat, it's not the worst we've encountered – and the Deepal S05 is equipped with a 360-degree surround-view camera, which is helpful for reversing and parking.

There is ample space in the front, with generous leg and headroom, while the back seat offers plenty of space as well. There is substantial legroom for taller adults, and despite a slight slope in the roofline, there's still enough headroom available.

The boot capacity is class-leading at 492 litres, surpassing competitors, although not by a significant margin, and this expands to 1,250 litres when the rear seats are folded in a 60:40 split.

Not only that, but there's an additional 159 litres of storage in the 'frunk' beneath the bonnet (152 litres in the all-wheel drive variant), as well as 28 litres of underfloor storage in the boot.

Changan has also included a plethora of interior storage options – a total of 32, by its count – although it made a last-minute decision to replace the glove compartment with a shelf.
 

Each version of the S05 comes with a 68.8kWh battery.

For people who select the all-wheel-drive S05, the maximum range is 278 miles, while for the rear-wheel-drive S05, the maximum range is 303 miles per full charge. There are some competitors that perform better than that. When we tested the Deepal's rear-wheel-drive version, we were expecting the car to run about 250 miles.

One advantage of the S05 over the S07 is its remarkably high maximum DC charging rate of 200kW, surpassing the S07's 95kW. This upgrade allows for a rapid charge from 10% to 80% in just 23 minutes.

When it comes to AC charging, a 7.4kW home wallbox can fully charge the batteries from empty to 100% in roughly 11 hours. Additionally, the Deepal S05 is capable of handling an 11kW charging rate.

The Deepal S05 is an economical vehicle to operate, particularly if you can charge it at home, which tends to be cheaper than using public charging stations. Realistically, you can expect the range to be between 3.5 and 4.0 miles per kWh.

Taxation is relatively low, with the first-year Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) set at a mere £10; after that, it rises to £200 annually (subject to annual adjustments).

For those eager to try the all-wheel-drive model, there's some good news. Although adding options may push the Changan's price over £40,000, the threshold for the Expensive Car Supplement has increased. As of now (April 2026 onwards), the limit for electric vehicles rises from £40,000 to £50,000.

Additionally, being a fully electric vehicle places the S05 in the lowest Benefit-in-Kind tax band, making it a compelling choice for company car users. However, many other electric vehicles will share this advantage.

As Changan is still a relatively new presence in the UK market, it's too early to gauge the Deepal S05's reliability. Nevertheless, there is some peace of mind provided by a seven-year or 100,000-mile guarantee, alongside an eight-year or 124,000-mile warranty covering the battery and electric motor.

The Deepal S05 may not feel entirely polished, but Changan has laid a solid foundation for future developments.

It boasts a well-thought-out design, is visually appealing, exceptionally comfortable, and provides notable practicality. Its safety ratings are impressive as well.

However, some rivals deliver an even more exhilarating drive, while the S05's suspension can feel somewhat bouncy. Additionally, it isn't the most budget-friendly choice, especially when compared with, say, Volvo's EX30.

Despite its few shortcomings, the S05 has a certain charm, and Changan is definitely a brand to keep an eye on as it continues to evolve.