Changan Deepal S05 Review: New Phev Tested

Stylish mid-sized crossover from Chinese newcomer offers both electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains Despite not yet being as recognisable as the likes of BYD, Jaecoo and Omoda, Changan has been around much longer than you might think. Based in Chongqing, China, it has been in the car manufacturing game for over 60 years. It launched its first car in the UK, the Changan Deepal S07, earlier this year, which proved to be a very respectable effort.Next up is the smaller Deepal S05, which the firm hopes will help to accelerate its influence in the UK at “China speed”. It promises tech, performance and surprisingly sophisticated design allure, and adds well-supported personal finance deals in for good measure.We had our first taste of the S05 in Austria for some cold-weather driving and low-grip fun, but we've now had the chance to test it, in both electric and plug-in hybrid forms, on the UK's more demanding roads.Changan expects electric and PHEV sales to be equally split. PHEV volume is likely to be a tad more weighted towards fleet.