Overview
The Deepal S07 marks the UK entry of one of China's largest and oldest automotive manufacturers. Positioned as a direct, value-focused alternative to established electric rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, and Skoda Enyaq, this mid-sized crossover SUV attempts to bridge the gap between futuristic Chinese technology and European design tastes. Developed with input from Changan's European styling and research centres, the S07 avoids the overly eccentric traits of some Chinese imports, presenting a cohesive package that targets mainstream family buyers looking for a generous equipment list without a premium price tag.
Design
The design is a core strength of the Deepal S07, which features a sleek, highly aerodynamic silhouette. The exterior blends the proportions of a wide estate with the raised stature of an SUV. At the front, the pointy, sharply angled nose features slim LED headlights and clean surfacing that minimises drag. The side profile reveals flush electric door handles and frameless doors. At the rear, an intricate full-width LED light bar dominates the tailgate, sitting beneath a prominent integrated roof spoiler that houses a high-mount stop lamp. Distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Dunlop tyres complete the bold, athletic styling.
Interior
The cabin leans heavily into a minimalist, technology-first design that punches above its price point in material appearance and quality. It utilises soft-touch vegan leather across the seats and surfaces, accented by configurable ambient lighting. The focal point of the dashboard is a massive 15.6-inch "Sunflower" central touchscreen, which can tilt towards either the driver or passenger. However, the display handles almost all vehicle controls, and the system is frustrating to use with menus appearing and disappearing in different places in different modes. The traditional driver display is replaced by a standard augmented reality head-up display that projects driving data onto the windscreen. Refinement is acceptable, though motorway cruising does expose some audible wind noise from the frameless glass and it's not very comfortable around town.
Performance & Powertrains
The S07 uses Changan's EPA1 dedicated electric architecture, configured strictly as a RWD platform. Power comes from a single motor delivering 215 bhp. This configuration yields a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 7.9 seconds before reaching a capped top speed of 112 mph. Energy is stored in a 78 kWh NMC battery, which delivers a of just 295 miles. Ride comfort is mixed; the chassis manages large speed bumps effectively, but the firm setup thuds noticeably over sudden potholes and broken urban tarmac. Charging performance lags significantly behind class leaders, supporting a maximum charging speed of 93kW.
Practicality
A generous 2,900 mm wheelbase allows the S07 to offer lounge-like passenger comfort with excellent legroom in both the front and the rear. Storage options within the cabin are plentiful, offering deep door bins and various cubbies. Luggage space is highly competitive, consisting of a 510-litre rear boot that expands to 1,385 litres when the 60:40 split rear seats are folded down. The flat load lip aids loading, although it lacks underfloor storage. To compensate, an extra 125-litre frunk under the bonnet provides the ideal space for storing charging cables and small bags. Rear visibility is a weak point, obstructed by a narrow rear window and large rear headrests.
Buying
Priced from £39,990, it focuses slightly too much on interior comfort and material quality, rather than the infotainment system or specifications. Standard equipment includes a 1.9-square-metre panoramic glass roof with an electric sunshade, a 14-speaker Sony audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, an awkwardly-shaped heated steering wheel, and a full suite of Level 2 ADAS. Peace of mind is given by a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating alongside a 7-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty. EV Hub Recommended Configuration has to be the RWD 78kWh powertrain because the vehicle is sold exclusively in one fixed specification. This would only be recommended if you were solely wanting interior quality and a simple ordering process, but some much better alternatives would be the Kia EV5 or EV6, Skoda Enyaq, or the BYD Atto 3 Evo for something different.