Telescope YouTube guy (AKA Zhou Haoran) previews the Volkswagen ID.5S, an affordable electric saloon aimed at China’s competitive EV market. Expected to cost around RMB 100,000, it will compete with models from BYD, Geely Galaxy and Nissan.

Although Zhou feels the car looks too small for the Chinese market, he reveals the rear cabin is surprisingly comfortable. It offers excellent vertical space and allows passengers to comfortably place their feet beneath the front seats, something the reviewer says some larger competitors fail to provide.

The front cabin features digital displays and customizable physical controls, although the software still needs improvement. The 480-litre boot is practical, but the lack of a powered tailgate is notable even on the top-spec model. The boot-release button is also awkwardly positioned.

The ID.5S has a 19-kWh battery, around 125 km of WLTC electric range and a 130-kW motor. Despite concerns about its size and appeal, the reviewer prefers it for Volkswagen’s engineering, reliability and long-term durability.