Deepal L07: The Sleek Sedan That Balances EV Range with REEV Flexibility

The L07’s standout strength is its dual-powertrain strategy: a pure EV for zero-emission urban commuting and a range-extender (REEV) that eliminates range anxiety for longer trips. The design is a head-turner – a sleek, fastback silhouette with flush door handles and narrow lighting signature that looks more expensive than its segment. Interior quality impresses with soft-touch materials, a large rotating central screen, and a clean, minimalist dashboard. The cabin is spacious for front passengers, and the ride is compliant, soaking up most road imperfections comfortably. The EV version offers strong, linear acceleration typical of electric drivetrains, while the REEV’s petrol generator works quietly when needed, barely intruding.

The sleek roofline exacts a toll: rear headroom is tight for taller passengers, and the rear window’s slope limits cargo loading height. The boot opening is small, making it hard to load bulky items; a hatchback would have been more practical. The driving feel is tuned for comfort, so steering is light and isolated – enthusiasts will find it numb. The infotainment system can be laggy at startup, and some controls (like climate) are buried in touchscreen menus, requiring multiple taps. For the REEV variant, the petrol engine, while refined, still adds weight and complexity, and running it purely on electricity requires frequent charging to avoid fuel consumption.

The L07 excels as a daily commuter. The electric motor provides instant, smooth torque, making city driving effortless. The suspension is well-damped, handling potholes and speed bumps with composure, though sharp ridges can send a shudder. NVH is excellent in the EV version – near silence at low speeds, with only mild wind noise on highways. The REEV adds a faint engine hum when the generator kicks in, but it’s rarely intrusive. Seats are supportive and well-padded, with power adjustment and heating/ventilation available on higher trims. The driving position is low, but outward visibility is hampered by thick pillars and a small rear window; the 360-degree camera system helps in tight spots.

Rear seat space is generous for two adults in terms of legroom, but the sloping roofline means headroom is tight for anyone over 6 feet. The boot is deep but has a narrow opening, and the rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, though not completely flat. Storage inside is good: a large center console bin, door pockets, and a wireless charging pad. The tech highlight is the 14.6-inch rotating touchscreen running a custom OS. It supports OTA updates, voice control (with Chinese accent recognition – can struggle with English accents), and offers common apps like music and navigation. Digital key and phone-as-key are standard. The instrument cluster is a small display in the steering column, showing only essential data, which some may find too minimal. Driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control with lane centering, but the system can be hesitant and ping-pong within lanes on curves.

Deepal is a relatively new brand under Changan, so dealer networks outside China are limited. Parts availability and service support may be inconsistent in some markets. The complex infotainment system may require occasional resets. Notes from early owners: the rotating screen mechanism can develop creaks over time; the sunroof glass gets hot in sunny climates. The REEV model has additional components (engine, exhaust, fuel system) that could be potential failure points. Battery health and range degradation are unproven long-term. Also, the car’s low ground clearance (common for sedans) means care is needed on steep driveways or rough roads.

Shortlist the L07 if you prioritize design and a modern, tech-laden cabin, and want the flexibility of a range-extender for occasional long trips without the full commitment of a pure EV. It suits urban professionals who primarily commute short distances but occasionally travel intercity, and who value interior quality and comfort over ultimate driving thrills. Avoid it if you regularly carry three rear passengers (the middle seat is narrow and headroom poor) or often transport bulky items – a traditional hatchback or SUV would be more practical. Also skip if you want sharp handling, a sporty steering feel, or a mature dealer network with proven reliability; the L07 is a stylish but niche choice.