GWM Ora Funky Cat Review: 193-Mile City Ev With Premium Cabin

The GWM Ora Funky Cat emerges as a distinctive player in the compact electric vehicle market, combining playful aesthetics with practical electric performance. This front-wheel-drive hatchback from Great Wall Motors (GWM) surprises with its Golf-sized dimensions, offering more interior space than its cute exterior suggests, while delivering a 193-mile WLTP range suitable for daily commutes.

Eye-Catching Exterior Design and Dimensions

At first glance, the Funky Cat captivates with its retro-futuristic look, featuring rounded headlights, a smiling grille, and vibrant color options that evoke nostalgia for classic mini cars. Despite appearances, it measures up to a Volkswagen Golf in length and width, making it larger than a Fiat 500 and nimble for city parking. Its compact footprint—around 4.2 meters long—balances urban maneuverability with family-friendly proportions.

Build quality feels solid, contributing to its five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which includes robust crash structures and standard advanced driver aids. Aerodynamic elements and lightweight construction (under 1,540 kg for the base model) aid efficiency, though wind noise becomes noticeable at highway speeds.

Premium and Spacious Interior Experience

Step inside, and the Funky Cat punches above its weight with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a modern dashboard dominated by dual 10.25-inch touchscreen displays. The infotainment system responds crisply, supporting voice commands via a quirky ‘Hello Ora’ assistant that handles navigation and climate control without screen taps. Wireless charging, a six-speaker audio setup, and ambient lighting elevate the cabin to premium levels.

Space is a highlight: four adults fit comfortably, with generous rear legroom defying the car’s compact stance. Front seats offer power adjustments in higher trims, and visibility is excellent thanks to large windows. However, the boot disappoints at just 228 liters—smaller than rivals like the VW ID.3—limiting it for larger loads. Folding rear seats expand capacity, but it’s best for light shopping.

Powertrain, Range, and Performance Breakdown

Powered by a 48 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Funky Cat delivers 170 bhp and 250 Nm of torque to the front wheels, achieving 0-62 mph in 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 99 mph. Driving modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and one-pedal driving—allow customization, with Sport mode adding synthetic engine sounds for fun.

Real-world range hovers around 160-190 miles, fine for city runs but trailing competitors like the Cupra Born (250+ miles). DC fast-charging peaks at 80 kW, slower than rivals, extending stops on longer trips. Home AC charging (6.6-11 kW) takes about 6-8 hours for a full top-up.

• Acceleration: Brisk off the line, chirps tires in Sport
• Top Speed: 99 mph, adequate for highways
• Range (WLTP): 193 miles
• Charging: 10-80% in ~40 minutes at 80 kW

Dynamic Driving Characteristics

In urban settings, the Funky Cat shines: soft suspension absorbs bumps, and a tight turning circle eases parking. A 360-degree camera activates automatically at low speeds, paired with parking sensors. On twisty roads, it handles competently with decent grip, though understeer limits enthusiasm and steering lacks feedback.

Highway refinement suffers from wind and tire noise, plus floaty damping over rough patches. Regenerative braking feels inconsistent, requiring adaptation. Overall, it’s easy and comfortable for daily use, not a driver’s thrill machine.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

Tech abounds: adaptive cruise control with stop-go, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a driver-monitoring camera that alerts to distractions. The ‘Hello Ora’ voice system aims for hands-free operation, with OTA updates promised for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A companion app enables remote preconditioning and location tracking.

Safety features contribute to its top Euro NCAP score, including autonomous emergency braking and multiple airbags. However, alerts can be intrusive—constant beeps for speed or lane drift demand deactivation, a multi-step process that resets on restarts.

Safety Ratings and Ownership Perks

Earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating, the Funky Cat excels in adult/child occupant protection and assistance systems. Warranty coverage includes five years/60,000 miles for the vehicle and eight years/100,000 miles for the battery. Servicing intervals are biennial or 18,000 miles, with prices starting at £31,995 (or £399/month PCP).

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Consider the Funky Cat?

Ideal for urban dwellers seeking a characterful EV with luxury touches and low running costs (under 3 miles/kWh). Families may balk at boot size, and long-distance drivers need planning. Rivals like the ID.3 offer more range/boot, but fewer style points.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the real-world range of the GWM Ora Funky Cat?

Expect 160-190 miles depending on conditions; best in city driving.

Does it support Apple CarPlay?

Not yet, but OTA update incoming.

How fast does it charge?

Up to 80 kW DC, 10-80% in about 40 minutes.

Is the Funky Cat safe?

Yes, five-star Euro NCAP with comprehensive aids.

What’s the boot size?

228 liters, expandable with seats folded.

Final Thoughts on Value and Verdict

At under £32,000, the Funky Cat offers tremendous kit for the money, blending whimsy with substance. It’s a compelling city EV for style-conscious buyers, though practicality tweaks could broaden appeal. Test drive one to experience its charm firsthand.