KATHMANDU: The compact crossover SUV segment has been buzzing with discussions about the Deepal S05. Its direct rival, the Proton e.Mas 7, has not received the same level of attention.
Both models fall in the same size class and should be close competitors. Yet, Deepal S05 has gained more popularity due to strong dealer strategy, while the e.Mas 7 has slowed down.
In Nepal, MAW Group sells Deepal vehicles, while Jagdamba Group sells Proton. Deepal is a new-energy brand of China’s Changan. Proton is a Malaysian brand, with Chinese automaker Geely holding a 49.9% stake. The e.Mas 7 is built in China by Geely and exported to Nepal. It uses the Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture developed by Zeekr Technology Europe.
Deepal introduced the S05 after the success of its S07 SUV. The S05 stands out for its design, features and technology. Its pricing also makes it attractive. To help buyers choose, here is a comparison of the two SUVs.
Size
The Proton e.Mas 7 measures 4615 mm in length, 1901 mm in width and 1670 mm in height. The Deepal S05 is 4620 mm long, 1900 mm wide and 1600 mm tall. The e.Mas 7 is clearly taller. The length and width are nearly identical.
The S05 has a longer wheelbase at 2880 mm. The e.Mas 7 offers 2750 mm. This gives the S05 better cabin comfort.
The e.Mas 7 has 19-inch wheels, while the S05 comes with 18-inch wheels. Ground clearance is similar. The S05 has 491 liters of boot space, while the e.Mas 7 has 461 liters. Deepal also offers 159 liters of front trunk storage.
Battery and range
The top variant of the e.Mas 7 uses a 60.22 kWh battery. It offers a WLTP range of 410 km. The Deepal S05 has a 56.1 kWh battery with a WLTP range of 400 km.
Motor power
Motor power is the biggest difference. The e.Mas 7 delivers 160 kW, while the S-05 provides 99 kW. This difference in output drives up the price of the e.Mas 7, as Nepal’s tax system is based on motor power. Both SUVs produce 320 Nm of peak torque.
Cabin features
Both models come with a modern and feature-rich cabin. The Deepal S05 has a 15.4-inch central display and an augmented-reality head-up display. It offers a D-shaped steering wheel, leatherette seats, powered and heated driver seat, 50-watt wireless charging and a built-in DVR. A 14-speaker premium sound system, automatic AC, 64-color ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof add to its appeal.
The Proton e.Mas 7 also brings strong features. It has a 15.4-inch infotainment screen, a 10.2-inch instrument cluster and a windshield head-up display. It includes leatherette seats, a multifunction anti-bacterial steering wheel, ventilated front seats and 256-color ambient lighting. A wireless charger, a 16-speaker Flyme audio system, automatic AC, V2L function and a panoramic sunroof make it a solid rival.
Safety
Both SUVs offer Level 2 ADAS. Standard safety features include 6 airbags, traction control, ABS, EBD, brake assist, auto brake hold, hill hold assist, hill descent control and front and rear parking sensors. The e.Mas 7 uses a 360-degree camera, while the S05 includes a 540-degree camera.
Price
The top variant of the e.Mas 7 is priced at Rs 6.799 million. With a discount of Rs 299,000, it can be bought for Rs 6.5 million. The top variant of the Deepal S05 costs Rs 5.699 million, with no discount offer announced.
Conclusion
Both SUVs are competitive in this segment. Deepal appears stronger in terms of strategy and brand presence. The price gap between the two is Rs 800,000. In return, the e.Mas 7 offers 61 kW more power, a taller body, larger wheels, ventilated seats and a slightly larger battery.
However, in terms of technology and features, the Deepal S05 feels more advanced.
