Changan Nevo Q05 PHEV

Upon entering the Changan Nevo Q05 PHEV, you’ll be surprised by how premium its minimalist cabin looks and feels for its price point. Its PVC leather seats are plush and supportive even on long-distance trips. The first row is a nice place to be in, while the second row has adequate space to comfortably accommodate three passengers. 

The higher trim features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display that offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and USB, while the base trim gets the 10.25-inch version. This model line’s infotainment system is linked to a 6-speaker Pioneer sound system. Meanwhile, drivers are given a 10-inch LCD instrument cluster, a multifunction steering wheel wrapped in PVC leather, and a modern-looking gear lever. 

For functionality and convenience, this PHEV comes with USB ports, a 12V power socket, as well as a wireless smartphone charging pad (for higher trim only). The higher trim flaunts a panoramic sunroof with a rain sensor for a more premium feel, while the base gets the standard version. The higher trim also comes with a soundproof glass. 

The Changan Nevo Q05 PHEV model line measures 4,539 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height. This SUV also has a 2,656-mm wheelbase. The higher trim runs on 19-inch alloy wheels, while the base trim gets the 18-inch version.

The Changan Nevo Q05 PHEV’s design looks subtle yet confident at the same time. At the front, it sports a sleek hypermodern-looking fascia illuminated by automatic LED headlights with LED DRLs. The higher trim, ID, also gets an intelligent high beam feature for its headlights. 

Moreover, it features a robust-looking side profile, which displays clean chrome trims and blacked-out finishes (e.g. fenders and door mirrors). Both trims come with exterior mirrors with electric adjustment and integrated turn signals. However, only the higher trim gets a reverse assist, auto-folding, and heating functions for its mirrors. 

Aside from these, this PHEV flaunts a smart, modern-looking rear illuminated by distinct-looking LED taillights and a high-mounted 3rd brake light for enhanced safety on the road at all times. For more convenience, the higher trim also gets a powered tailgate with a key sensing release feature. The higher trim also comes with front and rear fog lights for increased visibility at night, whereas the base trim only gets a pair at the rear.

The Changan Nevo Q05 model line utilizes a MacPherson independent suspension at the front and a Multi-Link independent-type at the rear. This SUV handles quite well for its size. It is light and can effectively hit turns or corners even at high speeds. However, its steering has a tendency to be too stiff at lower speeds. Consequently, mini bumps and other road imperfections are quite noticeable inside the cabin. But, on the plus side, it runs with great stability and smoothness on the highway.

Both variants of the Changan Nevo Q05 are powered by a combination of a 1.5L petrol engine and a single electric motor powered by an 18.4 kWh battery pack, which offers a 115-km CLTC EV range. Its hybrid powertrain delivers a combined power output of 212 hp, a combined torque output of 330 Nm, and a comprehensive range of up to 1,215 km. The SUV comes mated to Changan’s dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) system and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain. Additionally, it is equipped with seven drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, BEV, HEV, REEV, and iEM.

This PHEV is a respectable cruiser out on the open road. With all its torque, it can overtake slower vehicles effectively. It also has the capability to take on steep roads out of town. In the city, it remains super efficient even when you are passing through bumper-to-bumper traffic on a daily basis. And, even at high speeds, its cabin remains peaceful and quiet. Overall, the Nevo Q05 is a practical daily city ride and a capable weekend cruiser for your long-distance out-of-town trips.

In terms of safety, both variants of the Changan Nevo Q05 are equipped with a 360-degree view camera, a dashcam, and cruise control (adaptive for the higher trim). However, only the higher trim gets a lane departure warning, lane change assist, front collision warning, traffic jam assist, and an autonomous emergency braking. Both variants also come with various security features. In terms of braking, this SUV utilizes ventilated discs at the front, while regular discs at the rear.

In my opinion, the Changan Nevo Q05 is currently among the 5-seater PHEVs that offer the highest value for money. For a vehicle priced under the 1.5M mark, you already get outstanding efficiency and range, top-notch cabin space and practicality, as well as features that are typically seen in more expensive models.