First shipment of Changan models arrives in South Africa - here's what to expect

South Africans will soon have yet another car brand to consider when shopping for a new SUV, sedan, or bakkie, following the return of the Changan brand later this year.

The first batch of vehicles has arrived in South Africa, with the new Hunter bakkie, Alsvin sedan, and Deepal S07 electric crossover recently spotted on a carrier.

Examples of the new CS75 compact SUV are also on the water, Changan representatives have confirmed, with the first units set to arrive in time for the brand’s official launch, planned for the fourth quarter of 2025.

Changan, which previously sold the Chana Star compact bakkie and Benni hatchback, will have a more upmarket focus upon re-entry into our market. The brand will now be distributed by Jameel Motors, which has 70 years of experience as an independent international automotive distributor.

Vehicles coming our way

Changan Hunter: The brand will compete in the one-tonne bakkie market with its new Hunter, and its familiarity is no coincidence.

This is the bakkie that forms the basis of the Peugeot Landtrek, which is already on sale in South Africa.

The two share a close resemblance, but the Changan Hunter has distinct frontal styling and will be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, according to a local spokesperson.

Changan CS75 Pro: Also set for local introduction is the CS75 Pro midsize SUV, which is powered by a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine that delivers 135kW. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, according to the local website.

The 4.7-metre-long SUV is similar in size to the Nissan X-Trail, and in overseas markets it is offered in five-seat and seven-seat guises.

South African prices and specifications will be confirmed closer to launch.

Changan Alsvin: The importer will tackle the lower-end sedan market too, with its Alsvin. The four-door contender will be powered by a normally aspirated 1.5-litre normally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 78kW and 145Nm.

The Alsvin will be offered in five-speed manual and five-speed automatic guises, according to the carmaker.

The B-segment sedan will likely serve as a more affordable alternative to the slightly larger Volkswagen Polo Sedan.

Deepal S07: An exciting new entry for EV fans is the Deepal brand's battery-powered S07.

The sleek-looking crossover offers a claimed range of 560km between charges, and its electric motor produces 160kW and 320Nm, suggesting it could be priced at the lower end of the SUV scale.

Its cabin features “premium” soft-touch materials, according to the brand, while the wrap-around centre console was inspired by the yachts of the Mediterranean. The vehicle also comes standard with a panoramic sunroof with an electric sunshade.

One step closer to showrooms

“Seeing our first Changan Alsvin, Hunter 4x4 and Deepal S07 units arrive on South African soil is a proud moment - the beginning of a new chapter,” said Jameel Motors SA country manager Marinus Venter.

“This is more than a shipment; it marks the start of a legacy we are building with ChangAn - one rooted in trusted reliability and bold innovation. 

“These first vehicles are now en route to complete the homologation process, bringing us one step closer to delivering exceptional value and advanced mobility to South African drivers,” Venter added.

Stay tuned to IOL for more information on the new models closer to launch.

IOL Motoring