DFSK Seres 3: a new electric SUV from China

DFSK continues to expand its commercial range in the Spanish market. Now it is the DFSK Seres 3 that joins the DSFK 580, the family SUV with up to 7 seats and LPG versions, and the DFSK F5, the compact SUV with coupé-style design. And what is interesting is that the new DFSK represents a new alternative among the increasingly numerous options for choosing an electric SUV.

Without going any further, here you can see some of the most notable electric SUVs arriving on the market this year 2021. And joining them in mid-year will be the Seres SF5, a 4.7-metre crossover with no less than 510 kW (694 CV), a 90 kWh battery and the option of an extended-range variant.

With external dimensions of 4.3 metres long, 1.85 wide and 1.65 high, the DFSK Seres 3 enters the compact SUV segment. Rivals are no shortage, as this category already has some representatives. One of the most complete is the redesigned Hyundai Kona Electric. But it will also have to compete with cars such as the Peugeot e-2008, the Opel Mokka-e, the Kia Niro Electric, the DS-3 Crossback E-tense or even the Mazda MX-30.

The interior offers room for five occupants, and the boot capacity is 301 litres, expandable to 1,247 litres if the rear seatbacks are folded down.

53.6 kWh battery, 329 km of range

Compared with all of them, the DFSK boasts interior habitability and equipment. But also technology. It features a synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets located on the front axle, delivering 163 CV and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. It allows the Seres 3 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155 km/h.

The battery has a capacity of 53.6 kWh, allowing the Chinese electric SUV to achieve a WLTP range of 329 km, in line with its most direct rivals. The announced charging times are 17 hours using a 3.7 kW power socket, 8 hours charging at 6.6 kW, and 30 minutes to go from 20 to 80% battery capacity at a fast-charging station.

Equipment and price of the DFSK Seres 3

With a very modern and attractive interior design, the Seres 3 is also up to date in terms of equipment options. The control and infotainment system uses a 10.25-inch touchscreen in a floating position on the dashboard, easy to access and operate. The instrumentation features a second screen of the same size, also digital. The centre console includes a separate control panel for climate control, and the wireless charging system for mobile phones.

The DFSK Seres 3 can be equipped with heated seats, leather upholstery, keyless entry, push-button start and a sunroof that opens. As for driver assistance, there is no lack of hill descent control, automatic cruise control or front collision warning. It can also be fitted with a 360-degree camera system, or an integrated front camera behind the windscreen that can record what happens ahead while we drive.

The final price of the DFSK Seres 3 has not yet been announced, although it is expected to be around 35,000 euros, with promotions and purchase aid for electric cars under the Plan Moves. A price, in principle, in line with that of other Japanese or European rivals. Sales will begin at the end of March.

DFSK Seres 3 image gallery