New Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ gets more range, but not the cream

GWM Ora may not have got the same warm reception from UK buyers as other Chinese-owned brands such as MG and BYD, but it's hoping a new upgraded version of its Funky Cat hatchback might be just what it needs to mark its territory in the European car market.

Starting from £33,795 and limited to just 50 units, the headline feature of the Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ is its larger 63kWh battery. Replacing the 46kWh unit found in regular Funky Cat models, GWM Ora says the First Edition+’s larger battery pack is sufficient for a range of up to 260 miles – an increase of almost 70 miles. 

This boost in range puts the Ora Funky Cat in closer competition with the smaller, yet more expensive Vauxhall Corsa Electric and Peugeot E-208, as well as base models of the Cupra Born, Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault Megane E-Tech, which are all, once again, more expensive than the Ora.

Demanding an almost £2,000 premium over the regular Funky Cat First Edition, the ‘+’ model also includes heated front seats – something that was a rather odd omission from the standard model’s otherwise loaded specification.

The driver and front passenger also benefit from cooling and massaging functions, while a heated steering wheel, a panoramic glass roof and an automated parking function complete the upgraded equipment list. The Funky Cat already boasts a dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, quilted leatherette upholstery and a 360-degree camera system.

Even the keenest-eyed readers would struggle to tell the difference between First Edition First Edition+ cars; look closely and you’ll see the limited-run model gets exclusive badging, floor mats, keys and a matching Type 2 charging cable. There aren’t any exclusive colours for the First Edition+, but both the most popular shades - Aurora Green and Mars Red - will be offered at no extra cost.

The Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ will go on sale on the 12 October on what the brand calls a ‘first-come-first-serve basis’. Less expensive versions of the Funky Cat are due at a later date, with the small electric hatchback soon set to be joined by the larger Lightning Cat saloon, which was unveiled earlier in 2023.