The Ace

Changan's Uni-S crossover strikes a distinctive and value-packed figure in the sub-R500 000 crossover space

- By: Kyle Kock

Price: R469 900 Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol Transmission: seven-speed dual-clutch Power: 138 kW @ 5500 r/min Torque: 300 N.m @ 14004 000 r/min Top speed: 190 km/h* Fuel consumption: 7.0 L/100 km* Rivals: Beijing X55; Chery Tiggo 7; Haval Jolion Pro; Kia Seltos; Omoda C5; Toyota Corolla Cross

Although Changan already has a horse in the race of the sub-R500 000 SUV space, in the form of the CS75 Pro, that model is technically a seven-seater SUV. The recently launched Uni-S crossover will take on rivals just below that price point, with the base-model Uni-S coming in R40 000 cheaper than the entry-level CS75 Pro and the range-topping models separated by R30 000 – crucially the former is only a five-seater. Visually the two models share little in common, with the Uni-S arguably striking the more distinctive figure of the two, with a large honeycomb-motif grille flanked by the vertical headlamps that follow a daytime-running light pattern along the front of the bonnet and then angle down sharply to frame the upper section of the front bumper.

This range-topping model features striking 19-inch alloys (the base CS and mid-range CL have 18-inchers), and at the rear, you'd be forgiven if you thought you were following a Volkswagen Tiguan or Tayron – with LED taillamps in a narrow strip across the tailgate on either side of the Changan logo. Another noteworthy design element is the dual faux exhaust tailpipes with chrome tips.