S05 RWD

Overview

Deepal is the premium EV sub-brand of Changan Automobile - one of China’s four largest automotive groups and the domestic joint-venture partner of both Ford and Mazda. This manufacturing heritage matters: the S05 draws on Changan’s decades of engineering collaboration with international automotive partners, giving it a development foundation that most newly-launched EV brands cannot claim.

The Deepal S05 RWD arrives in Australia priced at $39,990 with 520km of WLTP range from a 66.9kWh battery and rear-wheel drive - a powertrain configuration typically associated with sporty or premium EVs rather than value-focused family SUVs. At sub-$40,000, the combination of 520km range and RWD positioning is unusual in the Australian market, where most vehicles at this price point use FWD and offer 400–450km of range.

The S05 targets buyers considering the BYD Sealion 7 ($54,990), Geely EX5 Inspire ($42,990), and Chery E5 Ultimate ($45,990). Against each, the S05 offers more range at a lower price, with RWD dynamics as an additional draw. The trade-off is a brand that is genuinely new to Australia and a service network that is in its early stages - key considerations for buyers who want confidence in the ownership experience.

Pricing & Variants

The S05 is currently offered in a single RWD variant in Australia. An AWD dual-motor variant may follow; confirm with Deepal Australia.

Performance

The S05 RWD uses a single rear-mounted motor driving the rear wheels - an unconventional layout for a value-focused SUV and one that delivers more engaging dynamics than the FWD competition. Rear-wheel drive provides progressive, balanced handling in corners and better traction under hard acceleration. Deepal rates 0–100 km/h at 6.9 seconds - quicker than the Chery E5 (7.6s) and Geely EX5 (7.5s) in this price bracket. Top speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h.

The RWD layout does have traction limitations in slippery conditions compared to AWD competitors - relevant for buyers in alpine areas or those who regularly drive on wet or unsealed roads. For the majority of Australian metro-to-regional driving, however, RWD is entirely adequate.

Range and Charging

The 66.9kWh battery provides 520km of WLTP range - the headline specification that sets the S05 apart from its price bracket competitors. Real-world range at 110 km/h on the highway is approximately 420–450km; in mixed urban-suburban driving, 480–510km is achievable. For a sub-$40,000 SUV, this range eliminates most range anxiety concerns on standard Australian driving patterns.

DC fast charging peaks at 100kW via CCS, providing a 10–80% charge in approximately 40 minutes. This is adequate rather than exceptional - the BYD Sealion 7 and Geely EX5 both offer faster DC rates at higher price points. AC charging via Type 2 runs at 11kW three-phase on compatible wallboxes, delivering a full charge from flat in approximately 7 hours.

There is no V2L or V2H capability on the S05 RWD, and towing is not rated - a meaningful limitation for buyers who need to tow a trailer or small boat.

Interior and Technology

The S05’s interior reflects Deepal’s positioning as a technology-focused brand. A large central touchscreen - 15.6 inches in the standard fit - manages infotainment, navigation, climate, and vehicle settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Deepal incorporates an AI-based voice assistant for hands-free control, a feature increasingly standard across Chinese EV brands targeting younger buyers.

Interior materials are above the entry-level norm for this price point, with soft-touch surfaces on frequently-touched areas and ambient lighting. The driver’s digital instrument cluster is cleanly designed. ADAS includes adaptive cruise control with lane centring, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and blind spot monitoring as standard.

Practicality

Five seats with a conventional SUV rear-seat layout. Boot capacity is approximately 490L - generous for the class. The absence of a frunk is typical for RWD electric vehicles where the front motor space is replaced by suspension and steering components. Towing is not rated on the S05 RWD, which limits its appeal for buyers with caravans, boats, or large trailers. No V2L or V2H is available.

Safety

Deepal’s Australian safety compliance aligns with ADR standards. The S05 incorporates front and side curtain airbags, AEB, lane departure warning with active correction, driver fatigue monitoring, and automatic high beam. Check ANCAP website for current rating status as the model was recently introduced to Australia.

Running Costs and Ownership

Running cost: (66.9 kWh ÷ 520 km) × 100 × $0.30 = approximately $3.86/100km at $0.30/kWh. This is among the lowest in the sub-$40,000 SUV segment, reflecting the S05’s efficient RWD powertrain and large battery relative to its range.

Deepal offers a 5-year warranty on the S05 - shorter than Chery’s 7-year and BYD’s 6-year cover at this price point. The battery warranty covers 70% capacity retention over the term. Changan’s global service infrastructure provides parts support; Australian dealer network development is the primary ownership variable. Confirm local service coverage before purchase.

Verdict

The Deepal S05 RWD delivers a genuinely competitive specification at sub-$40,000: 520km WLTP range, RWD dynamics, a 66.9kWh battery, and a technology-forward interior. The combination of range, drive type, and pricing is uncommon in the Australian market at this price point.

The absence of towing, V2L, and a well-established service network are the three constraints that narrow its audience. For urban and regional buyers who prioritise range and driving dynamics over utility, the S05 is one of the most interesting new entrants in the sub-$40,000 EV segment. Changan’s manufacturing credentials provide a stronger foundation than the brand’s Australian newness might suggest - but confirming local dealer support is essential before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes Deepal and is it a reputable brand?

Deepal is a sub-brand of Changan Automobile, one of China’s four largest automotive groups. Changan has manufacturing joint ventures with Ford (Ford Transit, Ranger production) and Mazda, providing the group with engineering standards aligned with international OEM requirements. Deepal is Changan’s premium EV-focused brand, launched to compete with BYD and Geely in the technology-forward segment.

Why is the S05 RWD rather than FWD at this price?

Rear-wheel drive is inherent to a rear-motor configuration, which Deepal chose for the S05’s more engaging driving dynamics and better weight distribution. Most value-focused EVs use FWD for packaging efficiency; Deepal’s RWD choice signals a focus on driver engagement as a point of difference.

Is 520km WLTP range realistic for Australian highway driving?

WLTP cycles are measured in controlled conditions. At 110 km/h with air conditioning, real-world range is approximately 420–450km - still class-leading for this price bracket. For most Australian city-to-regional trips, the S05 can complete 400km+ without a charge stop.