GWM Ora Funky Cat Review & Prices

The Funky Cat was the first car to go on sale in the UK from Chinese brand GWM Ora. Its dimensions mean it’s more like a small SUV, rather than a city car as it looks in photos. In 2024 it lost its quirky name to become the much less eye-catching GWM Ora 03.

This original version might have an odd name but it feels apt, as the best way to describe this electric car's styling is, well, ‘funky’. It’s a bit like the new kid at school wearing out-there clothes to stand out from the crowd. If you want something more conventional, well-established classmates include the Volkswagen ID3, Cupra Born and MG4.

Where the Funky Cat stands out from those alternatives is a genuinely upmarket interior. There are high quality materials throughout and a pair of 10.25-inch screens that are clear and easy to use, with voice recognition that works really well.

The cabin is really spacious, but the same can’t be said for its boot – at 228 litres it’s about the capacity you’d expect from a small city car, but similarly sized alternatives such as the ID3 have much more space.

Out on the road the Funky Cat is at its best when driving in the city, where it’s comfortable over bumps and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. However, you get a lot of wind noise at higher speeds and it’s not as much fun as the Cupra Born in corners. The driver assistance systems can be infuriating too, because they’re constantly beeping at you or tugging at the wheel, meaning you’ll want to turn them off during most journeys.

You get 193 miles between charges, which is fine if you stick to the city, but most alternatives, such as the Born and ID3, can go more than 250 miles. The Funky Cat’s maximum charge rate is about half that of those cars, too. As a result, charging stops are more frequent and take more time, making long journeys even less appealing.

If you’re looking for an EV that’s a bit different from the norm, the GWM Ora Funky Cat could charm you. However, most alternatives are better all-rounders and offer better value for money. You can check out our expert review team’s favourite electric car deals, or browse used Funky Cats available from our network of trusted dealers. You can sell your car online through Carwow, too.