Thabo Nkosi 
Changan, the Chinese automaker, has officially announced plans to enter the South African market as early as October 2025. The company will debut with a diverse five-vehicle lineup, featuring an array of options ranging from budget-friendly internal combustion models to cutting-edge hybrid and electric vehicles. This move aims to provide South African consumers with more affordable choices as well as newer energy-efficient alternatives.
A Diverse Lineup for South Africa
The vehicles, imported into South Africa by Saudi Arabian automotive distributor Jameel Motors, include the Alsvin sedan, the CS75 Pro SUV, the Hunter 2.0 bakkie, the Hunter Reev hybrid bakkie, and the all-electric Deepal S07 SUV. These models cater to varying customer needs, from everyday affordability to innovative energy solutions.
Alsvin: Affordable Sedan Option
The Alsvin is expected to be Changan’s most economical offering in South Africa. Powered by a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, the Alsvin generates 78 kW and 125 N·m of torque. Customers can choose between a five-speed manual or a five-speed dual-clutch transmission, offering versatility to suit different driving preferences.
CS75 Pro: Versatile SUV
Changan’s CS75 Pro SUV will offer both five-seater and seven-seater configurations, making it a direct competitor to well-known models like the VW Tiguan, Kia Sportage, VW Tayron, and Ford Everest. Equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, this SUV delivers 138 kW and 300 N·m of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Hunter 2.0: Rugged Bakkie
The Hunter 2.0 bakkie is designed for durability and power, featuring a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. This robust engine produces 168 kW and 390 N·m of torque, with power distributed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Hunter Reev: Hybrid Innovation
The Hunter Reev, a range-extended electric vehicle (or REEV), demonstrates Changan’s commitment to hybrid technology. Known as the Revo Hunter K50 in other markets, this model runs on a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine combined with dual electric motors and a 31.18 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery. With a combined output of 200 kW and 470 N·m, the Hunter Reev offers a claimed EV-only range of up to 180 km and a total WLTP range of 1,000 km, positioning it as a competitor to models like the BYD Shark.
Deepal S07: All-Electric Flagship
Serving as Changan’s flagship model, the Deepal S07 is a fully electric SUV with a 79.97 kWh battery. The vehicle’s rear-wheel-drive setup provides 160 kW and 320 N·m of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds. With a claimed WLTP range of 475 km, the Deepal S07 also offers the convenience of DC fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes.
Looking Ahead
With its planned October 2025 launch, Changan’s entry into South Africa represents a strategic step in expanding its global footprint. By offering a lineup that includes both traditional internal combustion models and modern hybrid and electric options, the Chinese automaker seeks to cater to a wide range of consumer demands in the South African market. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on how Changan’s vehicles perform in this competitive automotive landscape.
