DFSK E5

Upon entering the DFSK E5, you are greeted by a classy, minimalist cabin with a white and gray finish. The higher-spec also comes with a brown interior trim for a more sophisticated feel. Up front, you have access to a dual screen setup consisting of a 7-inch LCD instrument panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, which offers a GPS system and is linked to a 12-speaker sound system for the higher-spec trim (the base trim gets the 4-speaker version). The driver also gets a modern-looking steering wheel with multiple switches, as well as a sleek electronic shifter.

In terms of comfort and practicality, its seats offer good cushioning and support for all passengers. The higher-spec’s driver and front passenger seats are also equipped with heating and ventilation functions for elevated comfort. The first row has ample headroom and legroom, while the second row is a very nice spot to be in. Meanwhile, the third row is better suited for smaller passengers. On the plus side, this SUV’s trunk offers generous space for groceries and luggage, with the rear seats folded.

Aside from that, the higher-spec trim also gets a wireless charger, automatic controls for its HVAC air-conditioning system and an intelligent air purification system, giving a much more premium cabin experience overall.

In terms of dimensions, the DFSK E5 model line measures 4,760 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height. This midsize SUV also has a wheelbase of 2,785 mm.

Design-wise, the DFSK E5 looks robust and elegant at the same time. Its confident-looking fascia is flanked by clusters of light. It sports angular LED headlights, which are connected by a light strip, LED DRLs, and an illuminated E logo. A dot-matrix grille further enhances its classy, modern look on the road. Underneath, it comes with contoured panels and a rugged-looking bumper.

On the sides, its muscular SUV frame is complemented by blacked-out pillars and chrome side skirts. The higher-spec trim features 19-inch wheels with elegant star-like rims, while the base trim is fitted with the 18-inch counterparts. The E5 also comes with electric folding door mirrors with a heating function.

Similar to the front, its rear is elegantly-modern, highlighted by a European-like styling. Its power tailgate is flanked by modern-looking through-type tail lights, which give this SUV a distinct appearance at night.

The DFSK E5 model line comes with a MacPherson independent suspension at the front and a Multi-Link independent-type at the rear. This setup contributes to this SUV’s great absorption of bumps and other minor road imperfections. It may not be a sporty vehicle, but it is still nimble to maneuver for its size. 

The DFSK E5 model line runs on the brand’s plug-in hybrid technology that combines a 1.5L naturally-aspirated engine, which produces 81 hp of maximum power and 135 Nm of maximum torque, with an electric motor, generating 130 kW of peak power and 300 Nm of maximum torque. Feeding its motor is a 17.52-kWh battery that offers an 87-km pure battery range. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers a combined range of up to 1,150 km. This SUV comes mated to an electric continuously variable transmission system (E-CVT) and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain.

While it may not be the most exciting in its segment, the E5’s plug-in hybrid powertrain still offers plenty of power and torque on tap. Its power delivery is instant, making quick overtakes on free-flowing highways possible. Its E-CVT is smooth even in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, its cabin’s sound insulation at high speeds is also excellent. Most importantly, its powertrain boasts outstanding efficiency in mixed driving conditions. That said, the E5 is both a reliable daily commuter and a capable long-distance tourer.

The DFSK E5 model line is equipped with front and rear disc brakes. Its braking setup is supported by an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, a traction control system, hill-start assist and hill-descent control, as well as an electronic brake assist.

In terms of safety, both trims are equipped with cruise control, rear parking radar (higher-spec also comes with a front radar), and a camera system (base: reverse only, higher-spec: 360-degree panoramic). The higher-spec trim also comes with blind spot monitoring, lane changing assist, rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, and a door opening warning.

In my opinion, the DFSK E5 is a value-packed PHEV option in the local market at the present time. It offers an impressive mix of comfort, EV refinement, and everyday practicality.