Changan Is Back

COMPETITIVE: Chinese automaker makes  u-turn to Mzansi with new and affordable future ready vehicles

By Ali Mphaki

Headquartered in Menlyn, Pretoria,  Chinese state-owned Changan Automobile is back in South Africa after a decade-long hiatus.

The opening of the Menlyn h/q  early 2025 marks a milestone for the Chinese brand and an emphatic vote of confidence in the South African car market in particular, and for the continent in general.

To further solidify their presence on Mzansi soil and show they are in for the long haul,  construction is underway on a flagship showroom in Brooklyn, Pretoria.

Already secured are 25 dealer locations across the country to specifically look after  brand Changan.

Giving further comfort is the fact that Changan’s return is thanks to Jameel Motors, an independent distributor dealing with marques, including Toyota, Lexus, BYD, and MG Motors in 14 countries.

So what’s brand Changan bringing to an already choking and highly competitive SA market is a question that begs to be asked.

It was in the most beautiful momth of October last year – just three to four months ago –  when brand Changan unleashed its products to an unsuspecting Mzansi car-crazy public.

If first impressions are anything to go by,  it was apparent brand Changan is targeting an emerging new kind of car buyer  – cautious, comparison-driven, and focused on long-term costs.

It’s strongest seller was the  Hunter double-cab bakkie (from R449 900), followed  by the fully electric Deepal SO7 (R995 900) .

The five include budget sedan Alsvin, mid-sized Changan CS75 Pro (SUV) with 5 and 7 seater options,   doubfle-cab Hunter bakkie  with a 2.9-litre turbodiesel,  the range-extended electric electric Hunter REEV bakkie with a 1,009 km combined range, and the Deepal S07 electric SUV,  a fully electric premium SUV.

Though still early days, it’s interesting to note that brand Changan would register 97 units in South Aftica in November, more than Porsche,Subaru, and Volvo.

Price wise, the budget Alsvin range start from E238,000, the CS75 Pro from R299 900. with the Hunter REEV around R799,900 expected.

Just when you think this is all brand Changan can offer, think again.

Several new models are on the lineup for 2026, which include the Deepal S05 REEV,  an update VS75 Pro (with 5 or 7 seats options), and the much-awaited Hunter REEV.

Word is out that the sleek Changan UniS is also on the cards.  Changan enthusiasts will further be pleased to learn that the brand has already started reporting sales figures to Naamsa.

Further, bringing some peace of mind is that all units come with a 5 year or 150 000km  warranty.

Overall , the whole  all new Changan range looks futuristic, tech filled with great features.

One cannot but agree that Changan is back with a bang and makes for an attractive choice for those looking for something innovative over tradition.

The stage is set for a showdown.