2025 Changan CS75 Pro Review: Big Value, Strong First Impression

A Fresh Contender Skipping the Usual Entry-Level Hype

When you hear “Chinese car brand” in South Africa, chances are you think budget specials. The new Changan CS75 Pro wants to change that. With a more substantial feel, strong spec sheet and a price below R500 000, this is a SUV that says it wants to be taken seriously.

What’s New and What You Get

• The CS75 Pro shares its roots with a brand that dates back to 1862 in China, though the South African version is being handled locally by Jameel Motors.

• It offers a choice between five- or seven-seater layout, thanks to a 2 780 mm wheelbase. With the third row folded the boot offers 620 litres; with seven seats in use you still get 230 litres.

• Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine making 138 kW and 300 Nm, driving the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

• Pricing kicks off at R429 900 for the five-seater CS spec (coming soon), while the current CE five-seater is R474 900, and the seven-seater CE at R499 900. The warranty is generous at five years/150 000 km, with a five-year/90 000 km service plan.

How It Drives and Feels

According to our test drive, the CS75 Pro isn’t just good on paper. The cabin felt well sealed, insulation from outside noise strong. The multilink rear suspension notable in this class gives it a composed feel on uneven South African roads. 
One minor complaint: there’s no fore-and-aft reach on the steering column, and we noted some issues syncing Apple or Android devices with the infotainment system. Performance for our test averaged around 8.9 L/100 km.

How It Stacks Up and Some Perspective

In the crowded midsize SUV segment the CS75 Pro faces strong rivals such as the Hyundai Alcazar and the Jetour X70 Plus. What gives Changan a tilt in its favour is the value (premium features for less cost) and the clean spec sheet.

Why It Matters Locally

South African buyers are value-conscious. A vehicle that offers strong features, a decent drive and a solid guarantee for under half a million rand ticks a lot of boxes. If Changan can back this product with good local service and parts availability, it could make a mark beyond just being “another budget brand.”

Final Verdict

The Changan CS75 Pro is an impressive newcomer. It doesn’t feel like compromise. While there are small rough edges (infotainment quirks, no steering reach adjustment), the overall package is compelling for buyers who want SUV space, decent performance and modern features without paying premium prices. If you want value and style in equal measure, this is an SUV worth a look.

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