We take the less extravagant of the two Avatr 07 variants for a drive, only to return wondering why anyone would need the more powerful and luxurious one.
Singapore — Avatr may be a relatively new name on the global automotive landscape, but it is among the growing number of Chinese marques making their presence felt in Singapore. For those still trying to keep track of the many new badges arriving on our shores, Avatr is a premium marque established by Changan Automobile and battery maker CATL.
The Avatr 07 is the smaller of the two models offered here. But when I say smaller, the midsize 07 is only 55mm shorter than its larger sibling, the Avatr 11. Which leaves someone like me wondering: which box do both cars fit in?
There is little doubt that the Avatr 07 finds itself in the company of cars such as the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. But then, so does the Avatr 11. Confused? You would be forgiven.
Put simply, the 07 offers a similar sort of footprint to BMW’s electric SAV, but at a considerably lower price point. The more expensive Avatr 11, meanwhile, brings a more dramatic fastback design and additional luxuries, including a premium Meridian sound system.
For this review, we are looking at the Avatr 07 Electric Max, the less extravagant of the two 07 variants. And as it turns out, there is rather little to complain about.
Organic form
The Avatr 07 is defined by its organic body shape, with razor-thin light signatures at both ends providing a sharp contrast to its softer curves.
I must admit, it took me a while to warm to the SUV’s proportions. But there is no denying that it makes an entrance, and the design has a certain presence about it.
One small detail I appreciate is the neatly integrated Avatr logo within the bodywork. It is a cleaner treatment than the conventional badge stuck onto the rear of the Avatr 11. A small difference, perhaps, but one that gives the 07 a rather tidy finish.
Minimalist interior
Like the Avatr 11, the 07 keeps its interior relatively simple. Functionality is largely screen-led, as is the way with many modern Chinese electric cars, leaving very little in the way of conventional buttons and knobs.
Unlike some European manufacturers that are beginning to move away from leather interiors, the Avatr 07 is rather generous with its use of cowhide. The seats, in particular, are trimmed in Nappa leather, which does a rather good job of pampering your precious posterior.
Up front, the electrically adjustable seats come with ventilation, heating and massage functions, which should help soothe an aching back after a long day. Rear passengers get heated seats, along with electric adjustment.
The 15.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen will feel familiar to anyone who has spent time in a modern Chinese EV, and thankfully, both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. There is also a 50W wireless charging pad to keep your phone topped up, while audio duties are handled by a 16-speaker Pioneer sound system.
Above the infotainment display sits a rather wide 34.1-inch driving information screen that stretches across the top of the dashboard. It is a little reminiscent of BMW’s approach with the new iX3, although Avatr has opted for a conventional display rather than projecting information onto the windscreen.
For all the futuristic touches, I am not entirely sold on the rectangular, yoke-like steering wheel. Quickly, I learnt that it can be rather awkward when manoeuvring in tighter spaces.
And speaking of tight spaces, the 07’s 1,980mm width, coupled with its rather thick doors, is not going to be your best friend when parked beside a pillar. I had quite a bit of difficulty getting out of the car on a few occasions. More often than not, I found myself hunting for another parking lot.
Cargo capacity stands at 500 litres. It may not be the largest boot in the segment, but it is more than adequate for the usual daily errands and “vacay” luggage.
A princely, wafty ride
BMW somehow managed to turn its iX3 into a driver’s car despite the considerable weight that comes with an electric SUV. The Avatr 07, on the other hand, has a rather different brief.
Here, the emphasis is on comfort. The 07 rides on adaptive, supported by vibration-filtering hydraulic bushings that help take the sting out of bumps and imperfections.
The result is a remarkably cushioned experience. The suspension does a fine job of smoothing out the road, while layers of insulation and laminated glass help keep the cabin quiet. It is the sort of ride quality that was once the preserve of much more expensive luxury cars.
Of course, the 07 is not short of performance should you feel the need to make pace. The electric motor produces 333hp (252kW) and 365Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds.
But this is not a car that wants to be hurried. You can certainly build speed, but the Avatr 07 is best enjoyed at a more leisurely pace. Let the suspension do its thing, settle into those comfortable seats and simply waft along.
Do that, and you get an experience that comes surprisingly close to the sort of waft associated with a Rolls-Royce. That is quite a compliment for a car sitting at this price point.
Also, it has a damn good Autopark
Another feature worth highlighting is the 07’s automatic parking function. It is, at this point, the most advanced system I have encountered.
It does more than simply help you park nose-in or reverse into a lot. You can even choose whether you want the car to favour the left or right side of the parking space. A useful bit of control, particularly when you can factor in more room for that tummy.
The 07’s party trick, however, is its walk-away parking function. You can get out of the vehicle and let the car do the parking for you. Once it has finished, it even shuts down and locks itself.
The technology behind all this includes 11 high-definition cameras and 12 ultrasonic radars, among other hardware. It is an impressive bit of kit, and one that could prove genuinely useful in Singapore’s often less-than-generous car parks… but still, forget trying to fit into a Lido carpark.
Roller luxury at a different price point?
Well, not quite. But it comes rather close.
There is little sign of the influx of Chinese automotive brands slowing down any time soon. And while some offerings leave much to be desired, there are others, like the Avatr 07, that deserve a proper look.
The 07 Max may be the less luxurious and less powerful choice in the range, but it is way far from a stripped-out entry-level offering. You still get a cabin full of thoughtful comforts, a remarkably cushioned ride and technology that goes well beyond the usual party tricks.
There is no denying that Chinese marques know how to load a car with features, and the Avatr 07 is a particularly good example. It may not wear a Rolls-Royce badge, but for those after a comfortable, well-equipped electric SUV without paying quite so much for the privilege, it makes a rather persuasive case.
Perhaps the more expensive version is to my surprise quite unnecessary. After all, the lesser one is already rather lovely.
Text & Photos: Clifford Chow
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heaps of tech and features to pamper your soul | Adaptive cruise control is a little touch and go |
| Well insulated interior | Odd steering wheel is hugely unnecessary, and difficult to use when making tighter turns |
| Waft |
Avatr 07 Electric Max 82.16kWh
| Drivetrain | Full Electric |
| Layout | Single Motor, RWD |
| Motor power / torque | 333hp / 365Nm |
| Battery capacity | 82.16kWh |
| Efficiency | 5.2 km/kWh |
| Electric Range | 488km |
| 0-100km/h | 6.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 200km/h |
| VES Band | A |
| Dealer | DPL Premium Automobiles |
| Price | S$285,999 with COE and VES |
| Verdict | Lovely drive, plenty of tech. You just need to get past that annoying steering wheel. |
