Changan Introduces Uni-S into SA Market

The Changan Uni-S is the latest model from the Chinese automaker, which grows the local line-up.

Changan is a returning brand to the SA fold. The parent company’s LCV products, under the Chana label, had a brief stint locally about 20 years ago. Some of the earlier products were sub-par, but the brand has developed markedly since those days. Changan returned to Msanzi towards the end of 2025 with a full range of products. Among them are a small sedan, an SUV a bakkie and an EV. We have already reviewed the larger CS75 and the battery powered Deepal S07.

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The Uni-S is the latest addition to its growing portfolio, and it won’t be the last, as we heard from brand representatives this week. The Uni-S mid-size crossover made its local debut shortly after being shown on the world stage. The aim with this model is to widen the brand’s appeal, particularly with a younger audience.

Click here to read our Changan CS75 Pro CE driving review.

Kerb Appeal

As a result is has a design aesthetic that is less conservative than its larger sibling. The front-end, in particular, has sharply styled headlamps that help set it apart from the many other similar vehicles. The silhouette has a coupe-esque feel to it. In addition, all variants ride on alloy wheels; 19-inch items in the case of the car pictured. Rear styling is somewhat generic with body-wide light bar and a light-up Changan badge.

Premium-feeling Interior

The interior of the Uni-S feels and looks premium. From a design perspective it is pretty much the same formula that we’ve come to expect of models from China, or indeed most modern cars. There is a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12,8-inch infotainment display that dominate the facia.

The infotainment system has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a voice assistant that can take of various controls simply by talking out loud. Standard items across the range include keyless entry and start, ventilated front seats and automatic climate control. In addition there is ABS, EBD, ESP, Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hill Descent Control (HDC) with auto hold, as well as front, side and driver and passenger airbags.

One Powertrain

Much like the larger CS75 range, the Uni-S has just a single powertrain option. It is a 1,5-litre turbocharged engine that is mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The petrol unit develops 138 kW and a healthy 300 N.m of torque.

Our initial impression, at the national ride-and-drive event, is that the transmission is slightly more alert and snappier than that of the CS75. This car’s, fully independent, suspension also seems well tuned and dealt with the rutted roads of Gauteng without bothering the occupants too much.

Summary

One of the Uni-S’ most appealing factors is going to be its price. Changan may be a bit late to the party, but it plans to steal sales from other Chinese brands by offering plenty of standard equipment at a really attractive price. The Changan Uni-S really does offer a lot for the price. Coupled with funky styling and a dealer network than spans 40 by the end of 2026 and you can expect to many of these on our roads soon.