Quick Facts
Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol (138kW / 300Nm)
Transmission: 7-Speed Dual Clutch (DCT)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Claimed Fuel Consumption: 7.5 L/100km
Warranty: 5-year/150 000 km
Service Plan: 5-year/90 000 km
Related: Changan CS75 Pro (2025) - Video Review
Retraction
In my recent video review, I erroneously stated that Jameel Motors, who distribute Changan vehicles locally, also distributes GAC vehicles. This is incorrect as Salvador Caetano distributes GAC.
Clarification
I mentioned in the video review that the product dates back to 2019, which is correct; the drivetrain, architecture, and basic exterior and interior design were first showcased at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show, with a model being launched to the Chinese market immediately afterwards. However, the facelift model we receive locally is similar to the 2022 facelift version, which was updated slightly in 2024 and launched in Pakistan.
A crowded segment
The mid-size SUV segment is one of the most competitive in the South African market, and the re-entry of Changan Motors demands attention. One of the leading vehicles is the Changan CS75 Pro, an SUV that aims to disrupt the status quo by offering executive-level features at a highly competitive price point. But does it deliver a genuinely great package, or is it merely generic in an already crowded space?
I put the CS75 Pro through its paces to find out.
Driving Impression
Our test drive immediately highlighted the CS75 Pro's split personality. Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering a respectable 138kW and 300Nm of torque to the front wheels. This engine is one of the car's highlights, providing a genuinely perky response with plenty of torque available throughout the lower end of the rev range. Overtaking and general acceleration feel swift and confident.
I dislike
The enjoyment of this lively engine is curtailed by the 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). While dual-clutch gearboxes can be fast, the unit in the CS75 Pro lacks polish. At low speeds, particularly in traffic or when crawling, it can be jerky and hesitant. This calibration issue results in a less fluid driving experience than it should be, necessitating a recalibration for improved urban smoothness.
I like
In contrast, the ride quality is commendable. Changan has opted for a sophisticated multilink rear suspension—a feature often replaced by cheaper torsion beams in this segment to cut costs. The result is a genuinely cushy and comfortable ride. The cabin is well-isolated, providing excellent NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) characteristics that make highway cruising quiet and refined.
Interior and Features
Stepping inside is where the CS75 Pro truly begins to make its value statement. The interior is unquestionably plush, finished with soft-touch materials and high-quality trim around the cabin. Our top-of-the-range CE model features microfibre leather seats that are suitably padded, comfortable, and spacious, justifying the brand's 'executive' positioning.
I like
The sheer amount of standard technology and luxury features is solid for the price. The ICE variants come equipped with:
Heated and Ventilated front seats
A panoramic sunroof
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
These features are typically costly extras on rivals, cementing the CS75 Pro's position as a value champion.
I dislike
Unfortunately, the large infotainment system, although visually impressive, suffers from a notable software drawback: it lacks native support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While this can be partially remedied with third-party software (Car Auto), the absence of seamless, factory-integrated smartphone mirroring is a significant oversight for any new vehicle in 2025. It feels like a dated solution in an otherwise modern cabin.
Verdict
The question remains: Is it a great value or a generic option?
The Changan CS75 Pro is visually and structurally a generic-looking mid-size SUV—it blends in. However, the moment you look at the price tag (ranging from R429 900 for the entry CS 5-seater to R499 900 for the CE 7-seater) and then compare it to the list of features and the quality of the interior finish, the car reveals itself to be good value.
It offers more equipment and a superior ride comfort than many competitors. However, the slightly unpolished transmission and the lack of native smartphone mirroring are real compromises. If you can accept a slightly clunky low-speed drive in exchange for a huge list of features, a comfortable ride, and a comfortable cabin, the CS75 Pro is worth a test drive.
