Changan CS75 Pro 1.5T CE (2026) Review

The Changan CS75 Pro CE, the CE indicating the range-topping trim, officially launched in South Africa in late 2025. It positions itself as a premium yet high-value contender in the mid-size SUV segment, competing against the likes of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro or Haval H6.

Related: Changan Motors officially launches in South Africa. 5 vehicles driven with impressions

It enters an incredibly crowded market sphere and has its work cut out for it, as consumers in this market space are highly discerning and have plenty to choose from. The Changan is an attractive option, but as we found during our test period, it has a few foibles that may drive potential buyers into the arms of eagerly awaiting competitors.

Changan CS75 Pro (2025) - Video Review

Styling

The CS75 Pro CE emphasises a commanding road presence through a blend of sharp lines and premium accents. It features a massive, aggressive dynamic mesh grille finished in black and chrome, which is flanked by sharp auto LED headlamps and signature LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The CE trim comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, giving it a more planted, upscale stance compared to competitors with smaller wheels. The roofline is slightly sporty, ending in an integrated rear spoiler. It also features a full-width lighting signature common in modern premium SUVs

The CE includes an electric panoramic sunroof, roof rails, and an electric rear tailgate, features that aren't just functional but add to the vehicle's high-end silhouette, and it is typically seen in muted colours, but our test unit was draped in a beautiful metallic sky blue colour. The overall styling of the CS75 Pro was reportedly designed in Italy, which explains the European influence in its proportions and clean lines. It is somewhat dated compared to current designs and blends into the landscape among so many other mid-size SUVs that seem to share the same design elements.

Space and Comfort

While the base model uses standard fabrics, the CE features a Microfiber leather interior in an attractive caramel colour. This is complemented by soft-touch finishes on the dashboard and door panels. The dashboard design centres on a dual-screen layout. The CE specifically gets a 10.25-inch LCD instrument panel, which is larger than the 7.0-inch version in the CS trim. The infotainment is clean and clear, but it has a massive shortcoming for a vehicle competing in this segment. There is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard. If you want smartphone connectivity beyond standard Bluetooth, you need to download a third-party app and connect your phone via a tethered connection.

The front seats are electrically adjustable and feature both heating and ventilation, a rare luxury touch at this price point. It is available in a 5-seat layout on lower-spec models, but in our test units, it's a 7-seater. The 7-seater layout utilises a folding third row that disappears into the boot floor, maintaining a clean look when not in use.

The Drive

The driving dynamics of the Changan CS75 Pro are characterised by a comfort-first philosophy. While it has a punchy engine, the overall tuning favours a relaxed, executive-style cruise rather than a sporty drive. Changan specifically tuned the suspension for South African conditions, prioritising a cushy feel over sharp cornering. Unlike some competitors, the CS75 Pro uses a sophisticated multi-link setup. This helps the car remain composed and absorb bumps on uneven or gravelly roads.

The cabin is well-insulated, keeping wind and road noise to a minimum during highway cruising. The steering is light and effortless, which is great for navigating tight parking spots or Sandton traffic, but it doesn't offer much road feel for enthusiastic driving. Because it is a tall, comfort-oriented SUV, there is noticeable body roll if you take corners too aggressively. It is designed to be driven with a leisurely mindset. It is safe to say that the driving dynamics are not the CS75's best feature.

Performance

The CE uses the Changan's Blue Whale powertrain, which is arguably the strongest part of the driving experience. It features a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 138 kW and 300 Nm of torque. The engine feels perky and responsive, providing enough torque to handle overtaking on highways even when loaded with passengers. It uses a 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). While smooth at cruising speeds, it can become a bit snappy or hesitant at low speeds (stop-and-go traffic). This only becomes truly noticeable once you have been sitting in heavy traffic for a while, and the heat soak in the transmission begins to manifest.

Fuel Consumption

The Changan truly surprised me. It is well known that these larger Chinese SUVs have appalling fuel economy, often over 10.0 L/100km. The CS75 was an absolute peach, returning 6.9L/100km on the daily commute and only really dipping into the high sevens when pushed.

Safety

The CS75 in its CE trim scored a decent 5 stars in the ANCAP rating system. It features comprehensive safety technology, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced protection.

Price

CS75 Pro is sold with a 5-year / 150 000 km warranty and a 5-year / 90 000 km service plan.

Verdict

The CS75 has a lot going for it, it's attractive, well styled, albeit a little bland, it drives well and is frugal at the pumps, but in an age where even budget entry level cars have smartphone mirroring and connectivity loaded as standard, the lack of Apple Car Play and Android Auto is a major misstep from the brand in this model. Outside of this, the only thing the Changan can be critiqued on is the fact that it is a bit soulless, it lacks some character, that little extra that makes it stand out in the very crowded room. If this is not an issue for you and you're just after a well-equipped, user-friendly family SUV that comes in under R500k, then the Changan would suit you just fine.