Changan has introduced its UNI-S line of mid-size SUVs to the South African market, structuring the range into three distinct grades in an effort to cater to a broad spectrum of buyer needs without compromising on core engineering or design.
The lineup, comprising the CS, CL, and CE derivatives, shares a common foundation. All models measure 4,5 m in length and offer 475 litres of luggage space, powered by Changan’s 1,5-litre turbo-charged ‘Blue Whale’ engine, which delivers 138 kW and 300 Nm of torque paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
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While the CS grade establishes the base with features such as a 12,8-inch infotainment screen, ventilated front seats, and a 540-degree camera system, the CL variant adds a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and lane-keeping assist.
At the top of the range, the CE derivative incorporates additional features such as 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic parking assist, blind-spot detection, an electric tailgate and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.
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According to Marinus Venter, Country Manager for Jameel Motors SA, the UNI-S is intended to serve as a volume driver, with the brand expecting it to account for more than half of its sales. However, he emphasised the vehicle’s success is tied to a broader strategy centred on customer confidence.
“Central to this is the Changan Journey aftersales programme, which applies across all three grades. Each UNI-S is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan, and 5-year/150 000km roadside assistance, he says.
“Building consumer trust requires more than just a competitive product. We built a complete support structure, including our parts warehouse, our customer care centre, roadside assistance, service and maintenance plans and 25 dealer outlets.”
The company has also been expanding its physical presence, with flagship dealerships established in Pretoria and a network expected to exceed 40 dealers by the end of the year.
The focus on parts supply and aftersales support is part of a deliberate strategy to remove perceived barriers to entry for buyers considering the brand.
“The question is no longer, will this work? The question is, how fast can we scale,” said Venter, adding the strategy rests on four pillars: product, demand, network and execution.
“Product gives us the relevance. The demand creates the flow, the network gives us the reach and the customer confidence, and the execution is what turns potential into results.”
So, what is like to drive? First impressions give it a thumbs up, notably for the fact this engine does not suffer the same throttle hesitation prevalent with other Chinese brands on the market. That said, putting it in Sport mode can inspire some wheelspin making a rapid getaway.
The engine is slightly noisy climbing up the rev range but it is not a totally unpleasant sound and certainly not a scream of desperation or torture – equally, overtaking at highway speeds is easily achieved.
The interior is clean and uncluttered although there are quite a lot of hard plastics in evidence but they do not detract from the overall cabin feel.
My sense is this is going to be a major player in the medium SUV segment.
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Pricing:
- UNI-S 1.5T AT CS: R389 900
- UNI-S 1.5T AT CL: R429 900
- UNI-S 1.5T AT CE: R469 900
The vehicles are available in five colours: Black, Putty Grey, Shadow Grey, Fluorite Grey, and Moon White.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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