Changan may be a relatively new name to South African motorists, but globally it is anything but. The Chinese manufacturer is one of the oldest automotive companies in the world, operating 30 global manufacturing plants and innovation centres across Italy, the United States, China, Japan and the United Kingdom. Today, the brand counts more than 30 million drivers worldwide.
Locally, Changan recently entered the market with four vehicle ranges: the Alsvin, Deepal S07, Hunter bakkie, and the CS75 Pro SUV. Now the brand is expanding its local portfolio with what might be its most striking offering yet, namely the Changan UNI-S.
Positioned as a modern mid-size SUV aimed at young professionals, the UNI-S focuses heavily on technology, interior sophistication and strong value for money. While we’ve previously enjoyed our time with the CS75 Pro, the UNI-S immediately feels far more modern and user-focused, both in its design and its technology offering.
At its core, the UNI-S is powered by Changan’s 1.5-litre “Blue Whale” turbocharged petrol engine, producing 138kW and 300Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), while a multi-link rear suspension helps deliver improved ride comfort and control. Measuring 4.5 metres in length, the SUV also offers 475 litres of luggage capacity, making it a practical daily companion.
The range arrives in three trims, namely the CS, CL and CE; each building on the same mechanical foundation while progressively adding technology, comfort and safety features.
UNI-S CS: A Strong Entry Point
The UNI-S CS forms the entry point into the range, yet its specification sheet already looks impressively comprehensive.
Exterior highlights include 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels, automatic LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and electrically adjustable side mirrors. The SUV also features one-touch electronic windows for all four doors and a practical rear parking radar system supported by a 540-degree HD panoramic camera.
Inside, the CS offers a surprisingly premium environment for the price point. Drivers are greeted by a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.8-inch central infotainment display, both complemented by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as voice control functionality. A multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, and keyless start further enhance convenience.
Seating consists of a leather-and-fabric upholstery combination, with ventilated front seats — a notable addition in this segment. The driver’s seat offers manual six-way adjustment, while the passenger seat receives four-way manual adjustment.
Other equipment includes:
- Cruise control
- Electronic parking brake
- USB and Type-C ports in the front row
- 12-volt power outlet
- Four-speaker audio system
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
Safety features are also well covered, with the CS offering dual front and side airbags, alongside ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, ESP, traction control, hill-hold control, hill descent control, tyre pressure monitoring, and rear parking radar.
UNI-S CL: More Intelligence and Safety
Stepping up to the UNI-S CL brings a notable increase in driver-assistance technologies and interior refinement.
The CL introduces curtain airbags for both rows, increasing occupant protection beyond the CS specification. It also upgrades the cabin with a microfibre leather steering wheel and microfibre leather driver’s seat, which now features electronic adjustment.
Technology also takes a significant leap forward. The CL adds an extensive advanced driver assistance suite, including:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition
- Stop-and-go Adaptive Cruise Control
- Integrated Intelligent Cruise Driving system
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
Practical upgrades include smart high-beam control, electrically folding exterior mirrors, and a rainfall detection device for automatic wiper activation.
The infotainment system also receives sound source localisation, improving audio clarity within the cabin.
UNI-S CE: Range-Topping Technology
At the top of the range sits the UNI-S CE, which further elevates both luxury and technology.
Externally, the CE distinguishes itself with 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels and an upgraded rear parking radar system with six sensors. It also adds automatic parking assist, allowing the vehicle to manoeuvre itself into tight parking spaces.
The interior receives several comfort upgrades, including:
- Driver seat memory function
- Driver seat welcome function
- Electronic adjustment for the front passenger seat
- Second-row armrest with cupholders
- Eight-speaker sound system
- Electric tailgate with hands-free opening
- Electric panoramic sunroof
Convenience technology continues with automatic sunroof and window closing in rainy conditions, as well as mirror memory and automatic tilt-down when reversing.
The CE also expands the vehicle’s safety arsenal with additional driver-assistance systems such as:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Rear Collision Warning
- Lane Change Assist
- Lane Centring Control
- Traffic Congestion Assist
- Remote control parking (straight-in and straight-out)
Driving Impressions
During the launch event in Johannesburg, we had the opportunity to spend almost 200 kilometres behind the wheel, experiencing both urban streets and open highway driving.
One of the most immediate impressions is just how modern and user-friendly the UNI-S feels, especially when compared with the CS75 Pro. The cabin layout is intuitive, and the large digital displays make interacting with the vehicle’s systems straightforward.
On the road, the 1.5-litre turbo engine delivers punchy performance, especially when selecting the more responsive driving modes. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission adapts well to varying driving conditions and responds smoothly to throttle inputs.
During overtaking manoeuvres — particularly in Eco mode — the vehicle can feel slightly hesitant initially, however, if the driver mode is selected as “normal”, overtaking is generally fine. On the open road, never mind the driving mode, it feels perfectly comfortable and composed.
Another highlight is the excellent cabin insulation. Even at highway speeds, road and wind noise are minimal, creating a relaxed and refined driving environment.
Pricing and Ownership
Changan has priced the UNI-S competitively in the South African market:
- UNI-S CS – R389,900
- UNI-S CL – R429,900
- UNI-S CE – R469,900
Customers can choose from Moon White, Shadow Grey, Fluorite Grey, Putty Grey, and Black exterior finishes.
Each model also comes with a strong ownership package, including:
- 5-year / 150,000 km warranty
- 5-year / 90,000 km service plan
- 5-year / 150,000 km roadside assistance
Verdict
After spending a full day behind the wheel, it’s clear that the Changan UNI-S represents a major step forward for the brand locally.
Compared with the other brands in this segment and with an even higher price, the UNI-S feels significantly more modern, more refined, and far more user-friendly. Its punchy turbocharged engine, well-calibrated dual-clutch gearbox and impressively quiet cabin make it a compelling everyday SUV.
Most importantly, the UNI-S enters the market at a very competitive price point, backed by a strong warranty and service package that should give buyers added peace of mind.
In a segment filled with established rivals, the UNI-S arrives as a well-equipped, stylish and convincingly priced alternative, and it may very well become one of Changan’s most important models in South Africa. Yet, the brand has a few more surprises up their sleeve.