Changan (长安) is one of the oldest and largest automakers in China – and one of the most popular Chinese SUV brands in Africa. If you are looking for a dependable Chinese SUV, Changan models like the CS75 and UNI-K are almost always near the top of the list.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the brand's history, its two main SUV families (CS series and UNI series), build quality, and real prices from our 2026 export stock.
Changan Brand History
Changan's roots go back to 1883, making it one of the oldest industrial companies in China. In 1958 it produced the first Chinese-made jeep, the Changjiang-46. Today Changan is one of China's top four automakers (alongside FAW, Dongfeng and SAIC) and the country's best-selling Chinese car brand for passenger vehicles.
Changan builds its cars with a global R&D network – design studios in Chongqing and Turin (Italy), plus engineering centres in Birmingham (UK), Yokohama (Japan) and Detroit (USA). This international engineering base is why Changan cars feel modern, refined and reliable.
💡 Quick fact: Changan is the only Chinese automaker that builds passenger cars, SUVs and pickups under its own name at this scale – and it has partnered with Ford, Mazda and PSA for decades, absorbing world-class manufacturing standards.
The CS Series – Changan's Best-Selling SUVs
The CS (City SUV) series is Changan's core SUV family, covering everything from small city cars to mid-size family SUVs:
- CS15: the entry-level small SUV – cheap to run, easy to park. 2017 CS15 1.5L from $3,000
- CS35 / CS35 Plus: compact SUV with modern looks. 2017 CS35 from $3,400
- CS55 Plus: upgraded compact with the powerful Blue Whale 1.5T engine
- CS75 / CS75 Plus: the family favourite – one of the best-selling Chinese SUVs ever. 2017 CS75 from $3,900, 2024 CS75 Plus at $11,700
- CS85 Coupe: a sporty coupe-SUV for buyers who want style with practicality
The CS75 is the star of the family: since its 2014 launch it has sold over 1.5 million units in China and is a familiar sight on African roads.
The UNI Series – Changan's Premium Line
Launched in 2020, the UNI series is Changan's premium, futuristic family:
- UNI-T: a bold compact SUV – the first UNI model, known for its sharp design and smart cabin. 2021 UNI-T at $8,200
- UNI-K: a large premium SUV with a 2.0T Blue Whale engine, luxurious interior and huge space. 2021 UNI-K at $10,800
UNI models are the closest thing to a "premium Chinese SUV" at an affordable price – ideal for buyers who want executive-level comfort without the executive-level cost.
Changan also sells the Oushang (欧尚) X5 – a sporty, budget-friendly crossover under its Oushang sub-brand.
Build Quality & Engines
Changan's modern cars use the Blue Whale (蓝鲸) NE engine family – 1.4T, 1.5T and 2.0T turbo units that are among the most awarded Chinese engines for power and efficiency:
- 1.5T Blue Whale: ~180 hp, smooth and fuel-efficient – used across CS55/CS75/UNI-T
- 2.0T Blue Whale: ~230 hp – used in UNI-K and flagship CS models
- Build quality: galvanised steel bodies, double-sided electro-galvanized coating for rust resistance – important for humid port climates
- Interior: soft-touch materials and large touchscreens even on mid-trim models
Every Changan we export is hand-picked, inspected and fully serviced before shipping, with a written inspection report and live video check.
Why Changan Sells Well in Africa
- Parts availability: Changan has official dealers and strong parts supply across Nigeria, Ghana and East Africa
- Value for money: a 2017 CS75 costs a fraction of a comparable Japanese SUV
- Ruggedness: higher ground clearance and reinforced suspension suit African road conditions
- Modern features: turbo engines, automatic gearboxes, touchscreens – features that cost much more from other brands
Current Changan Stock & Prices (FOB, China Port)
| Model | Year | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| CS15 1.5L | 2017 | $3,000 |
| CS35 1.6L | 2017 | $3,400 |
| CS75 1.8T | 2017 | $3,900 |
| UNI-T 1.5T | 2021 | $8,200 |
| CS75 Plus 1.5T | 2024 | $11,700 |
| UNI-K 2.0T | 2021 | $10,800 – $13,400 |
* Prices are FOB at the Chinese port. Add freight, insurance and port fees for landed cost. We currently hold 17 Changan SUVs in stock – browse the full list or ask for live videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Changan a reliable car brand?
Yes. Changan is one of China's top four automakers with over 140 years of industrial history. Its modern Blue Whale engines and galvanised steel bodies are well regarded, and the brand has strong parts supply across Africa.
Q: What is the difference between Changan CS and UNI series?
The CS series is Changan's mainstream SUV family (CS15 to CS95) focused on value and practicality. The UNI series, launched in 2020, is the premium line with bolder design, more technology and more powerful engines.
Q: How much is a used Changan SUV from China?
Our 2026 stock ranges from about $3,000 for a 2017 CS15 to $13,400 for a 2023 UNI-K, all FOB at the Chinese port. Older CS35/CS75 models offer the best value.
Q: Which Changan SUV is best for Africa?
The CS75 / CS75 Plus is the most popular choice – proven reliability, strong build and easy parts supply. For a 7-seat or premium option, the UNI-K is excellent.
Q: Do you export Changan SUVs with inspection?
Yes. Every Changan in our stock is hand-picked, professionally inspected and serviced, with a written inspection report and live video walkthrough before you pay.
🚗 Ready to Own a Changan SUV?
Browse 17 Changan SUVs in stock – from the budget CS15 to the premium UNI-K – or ask for live videos.