- Modern Design with a Distinct Identity
- Advanced Dimensions and Engineering
- Strategic Role in Global Expansion
- Direct Competition with European Models
- Expected Specifications of the Leapmotor Lafa 5
Chinese automaker LeapmotorUAE LeapmotorBahrain LeapmotorEgypt LeapmotorKSA LeapmotorKuwait LeapmotorOman LeapmotorQatar Leapmotor, backed by global giant Stellantis, opened its participation at the 2025 Munich International Motor Show with the official unveiling of its new compact electric hatchback, the Lafa 5. The debut highlights the brand’s strong push toward international expansion following a successful year in its home market. Pre orders in China are set to open soon, with the first deliveries scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025. A sportier version, the Lafa 5 Ultra, is expected to arrive in 2026.
Modern Design with a Distinct Identity
The Lafa 5 carries Leapmotor’s signature design language while introducing unique touches that give it a bold character. At the front, a continuous LED strip links the headlights, while the sculpted hood lines add strength to its stance. The forward extending bumper enhances the car’s dynamic and confident appearance.
From the side, the sleek roofline and smooth contours emphasize a sporty profile, complemented by flush fitting retractable door handles. Select trims come equipped with a roof mounted LiDAR unit that supports advanced driver assistance systems. At the rear, the design remains clean and minimalist, featuring a compact roof spoiler, a full width taillight, and pronounced fenders. Buyers will also be able to choose from six exterior colors, offering plenty of personalization.
Advanced Dimensions and Engineering
The Lafa 5 is built on the advanced LEAP 3.5 modular platform, the same foundation used for the B10 crossover. This architecture provides flexibility in performance development and ensures higher efficiency. While official specifications have not yet been confirmed, expectations suggest that the car will be close in size to the VolkswagenUAE VolkswagenEgypt VolkswagenKSA VolkswagenOman VolkswagenBahrain VolkswagenKuwait VolkswagenQatar Volkswagen ID.3. Key details are as follows:
Length of around 4,262 mm
Width of 1,809 mm
Height of 1,552 mm
Entry level models with a 132 kW (177 hp) electric motor paired with a 56.2 kWh LFP battery
Higher trims with a 160 kW (215 hp) motor and a 67.1 kWh LFP battery
These dimensions and specifications position the Lafa 5 as a direct competitor to European electric hatchbacks, offering a balanced mix of efficiency, power, and practical design.
Strategic Role in Global Expansion
Leapmotor Senior Vice President Cao Lin emphasized that the Lafa 5 represents a key milestone in the company’s international growth strategy, aiming to compete not only in China but also in major European and global markets. This move follows Stellantis acquiring a stake in the brand last year to reinforce its worldwide ambitions.
Between January and August 2025, Leapmotor sold 328,859 vehicles in China and reported a mid year net profit, reflecting the brand’s strong momentum. The company’s current domestic lineup includes seven models, with three already available in overseas markets.
Direct Competition with European Models
With its debut in Munich, the Lafa 5 is positioned as a direct rival to models such as the Volkswagen ID.3 in Europe and beyond. Combining compact dimensions, modern styling, and advanced technology, the Lafa 5 is poised to emerge as one of the most promising new contenders in the global electric vehicle segment.
Expected Specifications of the Leapmotor Lafa 5
Built on the LEAP 3.5 modular platform, also used by the B10
Dimensions close to the Volkswagen ID.3: 4,262 mm long, 1,809 mm wide, and 1,552 mm high
Entry level versions with a 132 kW (177 hp) motor paired with a 56.2 kWh LFP battery
Higher trims offering a 160 kW (215 hp) motor and a 67.1 kWh LFP battery
Exterior design featuring a front LED light strip and a continuous rear taillight
Select versions equipped with a roof mounted LiDAR unit for advanced driver assistance
Six exterior color options available
With its world premiere at the 2025 Munich Motor Show, the Leapmotor Lafa 5 positions itself as a strong contender in the global compact EV hatchback segment, signaling a new era of expansion and innovation for the brand.
