Deepal S05 launch nears as Changan takes control

The Deepal S05 electric SUV is set to arrive soon in Australia as parent company Changan takes over local distribution from Inchcape ahead of a broader expansion next year.

The five-seat S05 will be joined by updated versions of the S07 and E07 as Changan takes control of the brand from former distributor Inchcape.

Changan is also preparing to introduce its mainstream Nevo range and luxury Avatr brand in 2027, with all three operations coming under factory control.

The S05 will give Deepal another contender in Australia’s competitive electric SUV market, where potential rivals include the BYD Atto 3, Geely EX5 and Kia EV3.

Measuring approximately 4.6 metres long and 1.9 metres wide, the S05 is larger than several compact SUV competitors.

When carsales reviewed the S05 in China in early 2025, the battery-electric line-up included a 175kW rear-wheel-drive version and a 295kW dual-motor all-wheel-drive alternative.

Previously reported specifications included a 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, with approximately 470km of WLTP range for the rear-drive model and 420km for the AWD.

Equipment highlighted at the time included a tilting 15.4-inch central touchscreen, head-up display, sunroof and synthetic leather upholstery.

Earlier expectations of a sub-$50,000 starting price have yet to translate into an Australian price announcement.

The S05’s introduction follows Changan and Inchcape’s agreement to end their Deepal distribution partnership, with the transition running from October 21 to March 31, 2027.

The companies say existing customer orders will be honoured, while sales, servicing, warranty coverage, parts supply and aftersales support will continue throughout the handover.

Changan is also developing its factory-backed Australian dealer network, although the final retail arrangements for its expanded vehicle portfolio have yet to be detailed.

Changan will also soon introduce updated MY2027 versions of the S07 electric SUV and E07 SUV-ute crossover. Australian specifications and powertrain choices have yet to be announced.

As previously reported by carsales, Nevo will join Changan’s Australian offering in 2027, targeting mainstream buyers and competing with brands including Geely, BYD and MG.

Changan has since clarified that Nevo will operate locally as a distinct vehicle range under the overarching Changan brand, rather than as a standalone marque.

The Q05 small electric SUV remains a leading candidate for its Australian introduction, with the larger Q06 SUV another possibility. Neither has been formally confirmed for local sale.

Avatr will occupy the luxury end of Changan’s Australian portfolio, starting with the 07L electric SUV in the first half of 2027. Pre-orders are scheduled to open before the end of 2026, with local pricing and specifications still to be announced.

The 06T electric wagon will follow in the second half of 2027, bringing a rival for the incoming Zeekr 7GT. Australian variants remain unconfirmed, although rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions are expected.

Avatr has also confirmed its six-seat T09 flagship SUV for Australia in 2028. Revealed in concept form at the Paris motor show, the large plug-in hybrid will extend the brand’s reach into the three-row luxury SUV market.

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