E5 Urban

Overview

The Chery E5 Urban is the entry-point variant of Chery’s compact electric SUV for Australia, targeting the sub-$40,000 segment where budget-conscious buyers are making the transition from petrol to electric. With a 61.1kWh LFP blade battery, 430km WLTP range, and a price of $38,990, the Urban brings genuine electric range to a price that competes directly with established small EVs from MG and BYD.

Chery is not a new or fringe automaker - it is one of China’s largest vehicle manufacturers by production volume, with over two decades of export experience and vehicles sold in more than 80 countries. The E5 Urban represents the brand’s calculated entry into Australia’s growing small EV segment, offering a straightforward value proposition: meaningful range and a 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty at a price aligned with entry petrol SUVs.

The Urban’s 100kW DC charging and SUV body distinguish it from hatchback EVs at a similar price, providing more interior space and cargo flexibility than the BYD Dolphin or GWM Ora while matching them closely on range and efficiency. It is primarily a city and suburban vehicle - the charging speed and FWD drivetrain reflect that focus.

Pricing & Variants

The Urban shares the same battery and WLTP range as the Ultimate. The step-up to the Ultimate buys faster DC charging (130kW vs 100kW), upgraded interior specification, and additional ADAS features.

Performance

The E5 Urban uses a single front-mounted electric motor in FWD configuration. Power output is sufficient for urban and suburban conditions with 0–100 km/h taking 7.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h, appropriate for Australian highway conditions. The LFP blade battery chemistry provides stable performance across its charge range and is well-suited to Australia’s warm climate, with better thermal stability than NMC alternatives.

Range and Charging

The 61.1kWh LFP battery delivers 430km WLTP - a strong figure for a compact SUV at this price. In real-world urban-suburban driving, 390–415km is typical. At 110 km/h highway, range drops to approximately 340–360km. For a daily urban commuter charging at home each night, the Urban comfortably covers a typical working week from a single charge.

AC charging via Type 2 is rated at 6.6kW single-phase, providing a full charge in approximately 9 hours on a home wallbox - overnight from any state of charge. DC fast charging peaks at 100kW via CCS; a 10–80% charge takes approximately 38 minutes, adequate for a highway stop but on the slower end compared to the 130kW Ultimate. The 100kW limitation is the Urban’s key practical constraint for buyers who travel regional routes regularly.

Interior and Technology

The Urban’s interior is functional and clean without the premium flourishes of the Ultimate. A 10.25-inch touchscreen handles media, navigation, and climate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on both trims. A digital instrument cluster provides charge status and range. Interior materials are hard plastics and fabric seating - serviceable for the price point but below the soft-touch finishes seen in the MG4 Excite.

Standard ADAS includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a reversing camera. Adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring may be standard or optional depending on specification date - confirm with Chery Australia.

Practicality

Five seats with adequate rear passenger space for a compact SUV. Boot capacity of approximately 460L suits grocery runs, sports equipment, and weekend travel. There is no frunk (front storage) given the FWD motor placement. Towing is rated at 750kg braked - suitable for a small bike rack or light trailer but not a boat or caravan. No V2L or V2H functionality.

Safety

Chery has submitted the E5 for ANCAP testing in Australia. Standard safety equipment includes dual front and side curtain airbags, AEB with pedestrian detection, and a rear parking camera. Check the current ANCAP result on the ANCAP website before purchase.

Running Costs and Ownership

Running cost: (61.1 kWh ÷ 430 km) × 100 × $0.30 = approximately $4.26/100km at $0.30/kWh. Against a 7.5L/100km petrol small SUV at $2.10/L, annual savings on 15,000km of driving amount to approximately $1,500.

Chery’s 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty is a standout for this price bracket and is one of the primary arguments in the brand’s favour against better-known alternatives. Battery warranty covers retention to 70% over the term. Service intervals and dealer network coverage are the key ownership variables - confirm local dealer access with Chery Australia.

Verdict

The Chery E5 Urban is a sensible first EV for budget-conscious buyers who want compact SUV practicality, a genuine 400km+ range, and the reassurance of a 7-year warranty without spending $45,000+. The 100kW DC charging is adequate rather than exceptional, and the interior spec is honest about its price positioning.

Against the MG4 Excite 51 ($34,990) the Urban offers more range and a longer warranty for $4,000 more. Against the BYD Dolphin ($38,490) it offers more cargo space in the SUV body at a very similar price. For buyers who prioritise range, warranty, and value over brand recognition, the E5 Urban makes a strong case.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Chery E5 Urban compare to the BYD Dolphin?

Both are priced similarly in Australia. The Dolphin is a hatchback with approximately 340km WLTP (Standard Range); the E5 Urban is a compact SUV with 430km WLTP. The E5 Urban offers more cargo space and range, while the Dolphin benefits from BYD’s larger Australian dealer network and better-established resale values.

Is Chery a reliable brand?

Chery is one of China’s largest automakers with over 20 years of production experience and vehicles sold in 80+ countries. Australian reliability data is limited given the brand’s recent market entry. The 7-year unlimited warranty provides protection against the unknown - effectively transferring manufacturing risk back to the manufacturer.

Can I charge the Chery E5 Urban at public DC chargers?

Yes. The E5 Urban uses CCS (Combined Charging System) which is compatible with the majority of public DC fast chargers in Australia, including Chargefox, Evie Networks, and BP Pulse. The 100kW cap means charging at 150kW or 350kW stations will be limited to 100kW.