Lifestyle Motoring

Changan CS75 Pro enters the midsize SUV market with focus on balance and value

Lance Fredericks|Published

The Changan CS75 Pro enters the midsize SUV space at a time when many buyers are looking for balance rather than excess. It positions itself as a modern, well-rounded option — one that focuses on everyday usability, contemporary design, and ownership reassurance, without leaning too hard on hype.

Image: Supplied / Changan South Africa

SO HERE’S what I am about to tell you about the Changan CS75 Pro: In short, you will learn that this is a modern SUV range designed around balance, not excess, one the provides turbocharged performance that feels confident and refined, has contemporary styling that moves beyond trend-chasing, and finally, offers ownership support designed to remove doubt, not add to it.

The Changan CS75 Pro enters the midsize SUV space at a time when many buyers are looking for balance rather than excess. It positions itself as a modern, well-rounded option — one that focuses on everyday usability, contemporary design, and ownership reassurance, without leaning too hard on hype.

At its core, the CS75 Pro is about offering a complete package rather than chasing extremes. It’s not trying to be the loudest or most aggressive SUV in its segment, but instead aims to appeal to drivers who value composure, clarity, and a sense of long-term value.

Power with everyday intent

Under the bonnet, the CS75 Pro uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 138kW and 300Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. On paper, the figures are competitive, but the emphasis here is on how the power is delivered.

The setup is tuned for smooth, responsive driving, whether navigating city traffic or settling into a longer highway stretch. Acceleration feels measured rather than abrupt, and the overall driving experience is geared toward comfort and consistency, which will likely suit daily use more than outright performance figures.

Design that keeps things restrained

Then I took time to look at pictures and video clips of this SUV and I can say that visually, the CS75 Pro takes a relatively clean and confident approach. The exterior avoids overly busy styling, favouring balanced proportions and restrained detailing. LED headlamps with daytime running lights, integrated indicators, roof rails, and a panoramic sunroof add a sense of modernity without overwhelming the design.

Rather than chasing short-term trends, the styling appears aimed at longevity. It’s contemporary without being flashy, which may appeal to buyers who want something that will still feel relevant a few years down the line.

Ownership support as part of the package

Beyond the vehicle itself, Changan places emphasis on ownership peace of mind. The CS75 Pro range is backed by a five-year or 150,000 km warranty, along with a five-year or 90,000 km service plan. This forms part of the brand’s broader attempt to reduce uncertainty for buyers, particularly those considering a newer entrant in the market.

The idea is simple: predictable ownership costs and fewer surprises over the medium term.

Rather than chasing short-term trends, the CS75 Pro's styling appears aimed at longevity. It’s contemporary without being flashy, which may appeal to buyers who want something that will still feel relevant a few years down the line.

Image: Supplied / Changan South Africa

A note on pricing

One area likely to catch the attention of prospective buyers is pricing. Positioned well below many established rivals in the segment, the CS75 Pro undercuts comparable SUVs by a noticeable margin — in some cases by several hundred thousand rand — depending on specification and competitor.

For buyers weighing features, warranty coverage, and overall cost of ownership, that gap may be difficult to ignore.

Available models

The CS75 Pro range is offered in both five- and seven-seat configurations, across CS and CE specifications:

CS75 Pro (5-Seater) 1.5DCT CS

CS75 Pro (7-Seater) 1.5DCT CS

CS75 Pro (5-Seater) 1.5DCT CE

CS75 Pro (7-Seater) 1.5DCT CE

In a segment crowded with familiar names, the CS75 Pro doesn’t try to reinvent the formula. Instead, it quietly makes a case for itself by focusing on balance — in performance, design, and ownership — and letting the numbers, and the experience, do the talking.