The Changan CS75 Pro is making a strong case for itself in South Africa’s fiercely competitive family-SUV market, where buyers increasingly expect generous equipment, space and performance without having to spend close to R600,000.
Sold locally in five- and seven-seat configurations, the CS75 Pro combines a relatively powerful turbocharged petrol engine with a long list of standard features. The range is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo engine producing 138kW and 300Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
On the road, the CS75 Pro feels more energetic than its price tag suggests. The 300Nm of torque gives it useful punch when overtaking, while the dual-clutch gearbox generally makes good use of the engine’s output. Independent testing of the range-topping CE recorded 0-100km/h in about 8.75 seconds, while claimed fuel consumption is 7.5 litres/100km.
The real strength of the Changan, however, is its value proposition. Even the entry-level CS derivative comes with features buyers normally associate with more expensive SUVs, including keyless entry, push-button start, LED lighting, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, smartphone mirroring, climate control, rear air vents and tyre-pressure monitoring.
Move to the CE and the equipment list becomes even more impressive, making the CS75 Pro feel closer to a premium product than a budget Chinese SUV. The cabin is spacious and family-friendly, while the availability of seven seats gives buyers an alternative to more expensive established brands. The seven-seater is particularly attractive to larger families, although the rearmost seats are better suited to children than adults on longer journeys.
The styling is another positive. Changan has avoided making the CS75 Pro look anonymous, giving it a substantial road presence and a modern interior that should appeal to buyers who want something different from the usual Toyota, Hyundai or Volkswagen choices.
There are, however, some considerations. Changan is still a relatively young name in the South African passenger-vehicle market compared with the established Japanese, Korean and European manufacturers. That makes dealer coverage, parts availability and long-term resale values important issues for prospective buyers to investigate.
The company is nevertheless building its presence locally, with the CS75 Pro arriving with a hugely attractive warranty/service plan deal, which substantially strengthens its ownership proposition.
Overall, the CS75 Pro is difficult to dismiss. It offers strong performance, generous equipment, seven-seat practicality and an attractive warranty package at prices that undercut many established rivals. For South African families looking for maximum SUV for their money, it deserves to be on the shortlist.
**Pricing**
CS75 Pro 1.5T CS 5-seater: R429,900
CS75 Pro 1.5T CS 7-seater: R449,900
CS75 Pro 1.5T CE 5-seater: R474,900
CS75 Pro 1.5T CE 7-seater: R499,900
With a five-year/150,000km warranty and five-year/90,000km service plan.
