Indonesia road test reveals DFSK E5 Plus strengths and quirks
The DFSK E5 Plus plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has officially launched in Indonesia, following a road test from Jakarta to Bali. The vehicle blends practical features with distinct oddities that distinguish it from rivals such as the Chery Tiggo 8 CSH and the Wuling Eksion PHEV.
Design and Interior: A Thoughtful but Flawed Layout
The SUV’s exterior design remains consistent with its Hong Kong introduction, though the rear hatch no longer displays the “PHEV” badge. Inside, the Indonesian model features a black interior with a six-seat configuration, including a captain’s chair in the second row. This row also includes electric seat adjustments and a 15.6-inch roof-mounted display—a feature rarely found in this market segment.
Entry and exit are manageable thanks to a low ride height, eliminating the need for high steps. Still, the driver’s legroom feels more restricted than that of the front passenger, and the steering wheel’s low position creates difficulties for taller drivers, particularly those weighing over 90 kg. While the flat-bottom wheel design improves visibility, the legroom issue remains unresolved.
Performance and Ride Quality
Testers evaluated the “smart” driving mode, which ensures smooth transitions between electric and engine power without any abrupt shifts. In “eco” mode, sustained high-speed acceleration occasionally allows engine noise to intrude, though the vehicle maintains stability well beyond 150 km/h.
The 19-inch wheels and low-profile tires initially raised concerns about ride harshness, but the Frequency Selective Damping suspension system effectively handles uneven surfaces, such as the MBZ flyover, while minimizing body roll. Noise insulation is functional but does not reach the standards of higher-end competitors. Engine and road sounds penetrate the cabin, and the aftermarket audio system lacks refined sound quality.
The second row provides generous headroom and electric adjustments, though the roof monitor obstructs the driver’s rearward visibility. A 540-degree camera helps address this, but the monitor’s placement is impractical for rear-seat entertainment. The third row lacks air conditioning vents or USB ports, and accessing it requires maneuvering around the second-row seats.
Passengers under 160 cm may find the third row usable, but taller individuals will experience significant discomfort. The absence of overhead or pillar vents restricts climate control to only the front two rows.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Over the past decade, Chinese automakers have steadily refined their offerings in Indonesia’s market, yet DFSK’s entry reflects a broader industry shift toward prioritizing technological features over traditional comfort elements. The E5 Plus incorporates advanced systems such as adaptive damping and smart driving modes, but its noise levels and third-row limitations indicate opportunities for refinement.
