Update (21 May, 2026): All sections revised.
Stellantis-backed Leapmotor, which has ambitious plans to scale annual global sales from around 600,000 units currently to 4 million units a year within a decade, has unveiled a strategic C-segment hatch that should help it reach that target.
Earlier this year, we got to spend some time with the UK-bound Leapmotor B05 in a global-specification model, and here’s what we found during our experience.
Design
The front-end of the five-door electric hatchback follows the template set by the Leapmotor B10 and C10 models. It features connected headlamps, horizontal LED lighting graphics and the closed-off upper area, while the lower bumper carries the main openings and black outer trim elements. The bonnet is gently domed, and the overall theme is soft with minimal character lines.
The B05 has a wagon-like side profile. Frameless doors and flush door handles are key exterior features, paired with 19-inch “Swift-Wing” alloy wheels, which are also confirmed for the UK.
We also noticed black wheels, side trim, and mirror enclosure and fascia elements which contrast in a sporty fashion with the bright body paint.
The rear is our favourite angle of the B05. A slim, full-width tail lamp strip forms a light bar across the tailgate, linking the lamp clusters, which stretch into the fenders for a wide look. A roof spoiler with side trims, horizontal fins on the rear bumper and a gloss black valance with reflectors complete the sporty rear.
Interior
The global-spec B05’s interior comes with an 8.8-inch full LCD instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch central touchscreen. The floating tablet-style display is mounted above the central air vents, with the outer vents featuring contrast accents to create visual pop.
Dash and door inserts use dark, fabric-like trim with a perforated pattern, and the layout keeps physical buttons and switches to a minimum. Both front seats have defined side bolsters, and can recline flat to meet the rear seat cushions, forming a bed-like resting surface.
A large panoramic glass roof, which Leapmotor claims is the largest in its segment, spans overhead, letting plenty of light into the cabin.
A column-mounted stalk shifter frees up space between the seats for a couple of shopping bags. The centre console packages a wireless charging pad, two cup holders, and an open storage tray ahead of the armrest.
Leapmotor also equips the B05 with a 12-speaker sound system and 17 advanced driver assistance systems. We expect most of these features to be carried forward to the UK-spec car.
Experience in the Leapmotor B05
Getting into the Leapmotor B05 is straightforward, and once seated, the front seats offer good back and shoulder support, although under-thigh support could be better. The Kia EV4 rival offers adequate headroom for a six-footer.
The materials across the cabin do not feel cheap, and the overall presentation comes across as well judged for the segment. The B05 also offers two comfortable armrests, while outward visibility is good, which adds to everyday ease of use for a family car.
Moving to the rear with the front seat set for a six-foot driver, entry is not an issue. Knee room is better than expected, and there is enough space to slide size 11.5 shoes under the front seat. Headroom remains decent, even though the backrest does not recline.
The flat floor allows three-abreast seating if needed, although it would be a tight fit for three full-size adults.
Rear passengers get useful amenities, including USB ports, air vents, and a fold-down armrest with adjustable cup holders. The large glass roof and the small quarter glass panels behind the rear doors let plenty of light into the cabin, which helps avoid any closed-in feeling.
The adjustable rear headrests add a further layer of comfort. Overall, the B05 leaves a positive impression in terms of space, comfort, and everyday usability.
Specifications
The Leapmotor B05 is approximately 4,430 mm (174.4 in) long, 1,880 mm (74.0 in) wide, and 1,520 mm (59.8 in) tall and has a 2,735 mm (107.7 in) wheelbase. It features cell-to-chassis technology, which integrates the battery cells directly into the vehicle structure and does away with the traditional module-and-pack layout, helping save space and reduce costs.
In China, the Leapmotor B05 is available in five power-electric configurations, three of which fall under the standard variant, and two under a new ‘Ultra’ variant, all with a rear-wheel drive setup.
For the UK, options will be limited. Continuing on the LEAP 3.5 platform, the UK-spec model features a rear-mounted electric motor, and a 50:50 weight distribution.
Leapmotor has confirmed the B05 here with two battery options: 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh. The estimated WLTP-equivalent range is around 360-435 km (224-270 miles), depending on the battery pack and driving conditions. The electric motor produces around 160 kW (215 bhp).
Release Date & Pricing
Also Read: First Look Review: Leapmotor B03X could be the value king of B-segment SUVs
The Leapmotor B05 celebrated its UK premiere at the Manchester Motor Show on 10 January, and will reach dealers in the second half of 2026. We estimate prices to start at just under GBP 30,000.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
