1. There are only two double cab models in the line-up and neither of them have ABS or airbags
If you own a small business and you need to safety transport your employees, riding inside instead of in the loading bay is usually a better idea. But without ABS brakes and any airbags at all, no-one is as safe as they should be. It is shocking that people still build (and sell!) cars in SA without ABS and airbags, given the well-documented carnage on our roads.
The entry-level model, the Changan star 1.3 double cab, R161 880, has no air-conditioning either. At least there's an AUX in port and a radio, but it's a noisy vehicle that's poorly insulated from road noise, and you will struggle to hear anything.
2. The Changan Star III 1.3 double cab 'Lux', R171 880, adds air-conditioning, electric windows and remote central locking, as well as front fog lamps
The bare basics, we know. And, while the Nissan NP200 and GWM Steed 5 are more refined (and also more pricey) both these double cabs sport a 0-star Global NCAP safety rating. But they do feel better to drive and offer way more creature comforts.
The Changan bakkie's interior and build quality feels as cheap as its price tag, and driving it is a noisy and unsettled affair.
3. It's a willing workhorse that's easy to load
The Changan Star double cab one-tonner bakkie at least has a 2.06 metre-long cargo bed, which is 1,52 metres wide. Being a double cab dropside model, it's a cinch to load heavier items onto it, as both the tailgate and sides can be dropped and the surface is not too high. The Changan Star is powered by a 1.3-litre engine with 72kW and as a result, claimed fuel consumption is rated at 7.8 litres per 100 km. This figure will surely rise once the load bay has some furniture or garden rubble inside it.
Every Changan Star 1.3 double cab is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, but no service plan. Check out the full list of specifications on the
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