The only SUV in South Africa that costs less than R400,000

When it was launched in South Africa earlier this year, the Changan Uni-S became the most affordable SUV in the local market.

That is, of course, if you ignore the many budget crossovers, which can technically be classified as SUVs.

The Chinese SUV’s R389,900 price tag means it is also the only SUV in South Africa with a retail price under R400,000.

This price puts it in the same bracket as some of South Africa’s most popular crossover SUVs, including the Haval Jolion Pro, Kia Sonet, and Chery Tiggo 7 Pro.

Its price tag also places it among the country’s cheapest electric vehicles – the BYD Dolphin Surf and the Geely E2.

At launch, Changan said that the Uni-S is not merely another budget alternative, but rather the “strongest contender of 2026”.

“This is not about offering ‘good enough for the price’, it is about completely challenging expectations of what buyers should expect at this level – and then delivering on that,” the carmaker said.

Changan introduced the Uni-S in three derivatives, namely the CS, CL, and CE, with the CS the only one under the R400,000, and the top-of-the-range CE retailing for R469,900.

Despite the R80,000 difference in price, all models are fitted with the same award-winning Changan “Blue Whale” engine and platform that is also found in the CS75 Pro – yet another Changan SUV.

As can probably be expected from a new, entry-level Chinese SUV, the Uni-S is fitted with a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine.

This motor is then mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, including in the CS derivative.

Together, this configuration generates 138kW and 300Nm, which it sends to the front wheels, achieving an average fuel consumption of 7.0l/100km.

While its acceleration is unlisted by the manufacturer, the Uni-S can achieve a top speed of 190km/h, which is more than adequate for South Africa.

What you get for R390,000

Despite its price tag, the Changan Uni-S is rather well equipped, even in its entry-level guise.

The “Blue Whale” platform measures 4,539mm long and 1,865mm wide, and houses an expansive 2,656mm wheelbase, which enables a spacious cabin and interior, as well as 475 litres of storage capacity.

This foundation is shared across the entire line-up, meaning the CS is just as big and spacious as the top-spec CE.

The base-level Uni-S CS features 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting with daytime running lights, and a honeycomb-style front grille.

Getting into the SUV is convenient, with drivers able to utilise keyless entry and push-button start, while a Bluetooth mobile phone key adds an additional layer of convenience.

Inside, drivers can expect to find a cabin fitted with adjustable ventilated cloth and partial leather seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration through an AI Elf voice assistant.

Further comforts include automatic climate control that includes rear air vents, while drivers benefit from an electronic park brake, park simulation video display, rear parking sensors and a 540-degree panoramic camera system.

Standard safety features in the CS include ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) with auto hold, and front, side and driver and passenger airbags.

Buyers can also expect a 5-year/150,000km warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan and 5-year/150,000km roadside assistance.