From the moment I first slid behind the wheel of the Changan Deepal S07, it felt like stepping into the future. This all-electric SUV blends bold styling, thoughtful tech and real usability in a way that makes every drive genuinely enjoyable. With an expressive silhouette, minimalist interior and tech that surprises, the S07 quickly became a car I looked forward to driving.
First impressions
Up close, the Deepal S07 makes a strong first impression. The sleek coupe-SUV profile, frameless doors and LED lighting feel upscale and modern. Inside, the minimalist cabin design is spacious and calm. The panoramic glass sunroof floods the interior with light, while soft-touch materials and microfibre leather seats create a premium yet approachable feel. The wraparound centre console adds cohesion and purpose to the interior, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the drive.
On the road + specs
The Deepal S07 is confident and refined on the road. Powered by an 80 kWh battery and a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 160 kW and 320 Nm, acceleration is smooth and effortless, with a 0‑100 km/h sprint in about 7.9 seconds. The ride is composed and comfortable, with road and wind noise kept mostly at bay. Braking and handling feel intuitive and even if you’re new to EVs, you quickly gain confidence.
The 80 kWh battery offers around 500 km of real-world range, with fast charging from 30% to 80% taking roughly 35–45 minutes.
The interior tech is a highlight: a 15.6‑inch rotating infotainment screen manages navigation, media and settings, while an augmented reality head-up display and adaptive cruise control add convenience. Lane assist, a 360-degree camera system, and voice and gesture control make parking and everyday driving effortless.
Pricing and warranty
The Deepal S07 starts at around R995 900 in South Africa. Changan backs it with a five-year or 150 000 km warranty covering the electric drivetrain, providing confidence for first-time EV owners and long-term peace of mind.
What I liked
The Changan Deepal S07 effortlessly blends style, tech and comfort. The panoramic roof floods the cabin with light, making a drive feel open and enjoyable, while the interior feels premium and inviting with soft-touch materials, microfibre seats and a clean, modern layout.
On the road, the electric powertrain delivers smooth, instant torque that’s playful yet controlled.
Tech feels genuinely useful – the 15.6-inch rotating infotainment screen is intuitive, the augmented reality head-up display keeps info in sight and voice and gesture controls are fun and practical. Every drive with the S07 is a little more enjoyable, making even routine trips feel special.
Considerations
The Deepal S07 isn’t built for hardcore performance – initial throttle response is calm rather than thrilling and charging speed at some public stations could be faster. Real-world range is generous but long trips require some planning. Being a new name in South Africa, parts availability and resale value are factors to consider for long-term ownership.
Final thoughts
The Changan Deepal S07 is a bold and rewarding electric SUV. It balances usability, modern tech and a refined driving experience. The cabin feels special, the powertrain is smooth and confident and the presence of the car leaves a strong impression. It may not be a performance EV, but for most daily scenarios, the S07 is comfortable, capable and genuinely fun to drive.