Deepal S05 Plug-in Hybrid Tested: Electric Powertrain Preferred
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
The Deepal S05 plug-in hybrid has launched in Israel, aiming to capture a share of the growing electrified vehicle market. While offering good design, comfort, and practicality, the vehicle is criticized for its over-reliance on a touchscreen interface and unrefined safety systems. Testers found the electric range to be around 80 km and noted that the fully electric version is a more compelling option for private buyers.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- The Deepal S05 plug-in hybrid is now available in Israel, targeting the growing demand for electrified vehicles.
- The plug-in hybrid segment has seen significant growth, reaching 25% market share in Israel by September 2026.
- The vehicle offers a combined 259 horsepower, with an electric range of approximately 80 km achieved in testing.
- Criticisms include an over-reliance on a touchscreen for controls and unrefined operation of safety systems.
- The fully electric version is recommended as a more complete and cost-effective option for private buyers.
The Deepal S05 plug-in hybrid, a new offering from the Chinese automaker under the Changan conglomerate, has entered the Israeli market. While the brand's fully electric S07 and S05 models have already been introduced, the plug-in hybrid variant aims to capitalize on the growing demand for electrified vehicles, particularly within company car fleets due to favorable tax benefits. This segment has seen a significant surge, capturing 25% of the market share as of September 2026, up from 10.7% the previous year.
The S05 plug-in hybrid shares its dynamic exterior design and spacious interior with its electric counterpart. Inside, the cabin features quality materials and good assembly, though the all-black interior with orange stitching in the test vehicle lacked a premium feel. A large 15.4-inch central touchscreen controls most functions, with a head-up display providing essential driving information. However, the heavy reliance on the touchscreen for nearly all controls, including climate and drive modes, is criticized for being cumbersome and frustrating, with some Hebrew translations also noted as imperfect.
Ride comfort is good in urban and intercity driving, though noise isolation is compromised when the gasoline engine engages. The plug-in hybrid system combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 259 horsepower, with primary power coming from the electric unit. The vehicle achieved approximately 80 kilometers of electric range in testing, falling short of the claimed 100 kilometers, but still sufficient for daily commutes if charged regularly. Fuel economy for the gasoline engine averaged an impressive 20 km/liter after the electric range was depleted.
Safety features are comprehensive, with an 8/10 rating from the Ministry of Transport and a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. However, the operation of some systems, such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, is described as unrefined and occasionally intrusive. The article suggests that while the plug-in hybrid is a viable option, especially for company car users who might prefer the higher trim level, private buyers might find the fully electric version, which is cheaper and feels more complete, to be a better choice.