Changan SA's new China face

RANGE: SEDANS, SUVS, BAKKIES, PETROL AND ELECTRIC

- Motoring staff

Changan has become the latest Chinese badge to be offered locally with a comprehensive model range including a small sedan, an SUV, a bakkie and an all-electric SUV under the Deepal nomenclature.

One of Saudi Arabia's oldest automotive companies, Jameel Motors is the importer of the new badges. Known for its links with Toyota, Jameel has established ties with Lexus, BYD, GAC Motor, Geely, MG and now Changan/Deepal, as well as Ford in no less than 10 markets.

It plans to have up to 35 local Changan/Deepal dealerships by 2027.

Alsvin

The Alsvin sedan is the entry-level model in Changan's product range a direct rival for the Honda Amaze, Kia Pegas and Suzuki DZire.

Aesthetically similar to a past-generation Toyota Corolla, the Alsvin measures 4 390mm long, 1 725mm wide, 1 490mm tall and 2 535mm long on the wheelbase front.

The claimed boot space is 390 litres.

Starting the range off, the CS makes use of a normally aspirated 1.4-litre petrol outputting 74kW/135Nm. The only available transmission is a five-speed manual.