Chinese EV Luxury Model Alfa S5 Review: Can It Truly Deliver on Its Promises?

The latest Chinese electric vehicle model, the Foxconn Alfa S5, has recently been unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show. Our team took this car for a spin to see if it truly lives up to its impressive specifications.

Design and Features

Compared to its predecessor, not much seems to have changed on the exterior and interior design of the new model. However, when you take a closer look, there are some subtle updates here and there. For instance, the upgraded 630ULTRA Spirit Edition 390kW features improved front and rear seats with adjustable lumbar support and massage functions.

Compared to its predecessor, some minor upgrades have been added, including the new and impressive interior design.

Dynamic Performance

During our test drive, we came across a unique feature of this model - pop-up launch. With downforce activated using the pedals or paddle gear-shifters simultaneously, you'll see a burst of acceleration.

While testing on dry ground was fun, we have to note that at higher speeds over 75 km/h beyond performance degrades. A noticeable drop in traction and ride quality occurs.

The new car comes in various colors, each with its own green LED strip. We love the vibrant color palette but can see where the extra weight came from – this affects overall efficiency of course.

Handling and Safety

On the road, we observed Alfa S5's dynamic test performed well with very easy-to-use paddles or gears gear-shifters, also it had a more middle driving mode compared to the previous iteration.

The four front wheels, driven through our drive in 2-wheel mode and all four corners of our tested car have 4 independent suspension units with a clear ride quality.

In comparison, our driving experience felt pretty neutral overall, but things changed when accelerating hard from higher speeds into cornerings where it showed understeering.

During some rough road and uphill test maneuvers on our testing grounds Alfa managed its all the traction while using hill start assist feature of the driving system.

Interior Space and Comfort

The interior design and ergonomics have retained their reputation with 2025 Foxconn Alfa S5 model showing an upgraded aesthetic while overall layout remains unchanged. This car has got ample spaces across its front seats but becomes smaller as one moves backwards in line.

We also observed some extra space at the back where passengers get their own individual reading lights.

However, rear passengers still need to adjust to this confined and cluttered environment compared with our other options – it's time for us to look elsewhere.

Fuel Economy and Cost

During a trip that tested full range to local petrol station we discovered how quickly Foxconn Alfa 5 charged over the longer charging network. Charging times became 30 minutes.

With all things considered though, although the updated fast charger comes in handy but only with our test’s selected charger being an existing one; it doesn’t necessarily guarantee charging at national level electric grid.

Conclusion

Foxconn Alfa S5 performed well enough and still showed strong characteristics, but overall this is an enjoyable ride for a price worth serious consideration.

A more detailed and wider test may provide us better insight about the long-term usability of the Foxconn Alfa 5.