Changan CS35 Plus Review: Premium Tech at Bargain Price
content: Redefining Value in Subcompact SUVs
If you're comparing Chinese and Japanese SUVs under ₱1 million, the 2022 Changan CS35 Plus demands attention. After test-driving this contender against segment leaders, I confirm its disruptive potential: You get adaptive cruise control, panoramic sunroof, and turbocharged power at Geely Coolray's entry-level price point. Market data from AutoDeal Philippines shows this pricing strategy is shaking up the segment – let's examine whether the substance matches the style.
Standout Exterior Design
European-Inspired Styling Cues
Changan's designers avoided predictable Chinese SUV tropes. The full-width LED light bar (functional daytime running lights and sequential turn signals) creates unmistakable Audi-esque presence. Unlike the GAC GS4 or JAC S4's chrome overload, the CS35 Plus uses strategic red accents against metallic "Wolf Grey" paint for sophisticated aggression. The floating roof effect from blacked-out C-pillars gives this subcompact SUV coupe-like proportions despite its practical 4.25m length.
Premium Functional Details
Beyond aesthetics, thoughtful engineering shines through:
- Authentic dual exhausts (not cosmetic tips)
- Hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor with lockable divider
- 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 R18 GT Radial tires – unusual in class where competitors use 17-inch setups
Ground clearance measures 180mm, beating the Coolray's 165mm for Philippine road conditions. The 400L boot expands to 950L when rear seats fold – 20L more than the segment-leading MG ZS.
Tech-Rich Cabin with Caveats
Digital Cockpit Dominance
Changan's interior gambles big on screens: The 10.25-inch infotainment display pairs with a 7-inch digital cluster offering three themes. While lacking Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the around-view monitor activates during turn signal use – a segment exclusive. Physical aluminum-trimmed climate controls prevent fingerprint smudges common in all-touchscreen rivals. Wireless charging fits plus-sized phones, addressing a common Coolray owner complaint.
Practical Compromises
The red-dominated cabin polarizes – it's bold but risks dating faster than neutral schemes. Rear passengers face limitations:
- Single air vent (problematic for 3-across seating)
- Only one USB port
- Shallow door pockets
The 6-way power driver's seat adjusts manually for height, forcing taller drivers into a knees-up position despite tilt/telescopic steering. NVH impresses however, with acoustic glass minimizing road noise from the low-profile tires.
Turbo Performance Analysis
Engine and Transmission Dynamics
The 1.4L turbo four-cylinder outputs 158PS and 260Nm – identical figures to the top-tier Geely Coolray Sport. The 7-speed DCT exhibits classic dual-clutch traits:
| Driving Condition | Behavior | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Traffic | Jerky low-speed engagement | 7 km/L (tested) |
| Highway Cruising | Rapid shifts, strong acceleration | 14-16 km/L (estimated) |
| Mountain Roads | Holds gears aggressively | N/A |
The transmission learns driving patterns over time, but urban commuters should expect an adjustment period. Sport mode tightens steering effort and sharpens throttle response effectively.
Advanced Safety Tech
Changan's adaptive cruise control performs remarkably, functioning from 0-150 km/h with stop-and-go capability. Unlike some systems that disengage below 30km/h, it brought our test vehicle to complete stops in EDSA traffic. Combined with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, these features rival Honda Sensing – unprecedented at this ₱998,000 price point.
Market Disruptor Verdict
Value Proposition Breakdown
The CS35 Plus redefines expectations by offering premium features at mainstream pricing:
Key advantages over Coolray:
- Panoramic sunroof (Coolray moonroof is fixed)
- Ventilated front seats
- Larger 18-inch wheels
- Lower price (₱998,000 vs Coolray Sport's ₱1.283M)
Trade-offs:
- Smaller dealer network
- Less rear passenger amenities
- DCT refinement lags Geely's implementation
Who Should Consider This SUV?
Based on our road tests and ownership cost projections, the CS35 Plus excels for:
- Tech-focused buyers wanting advanced safety features
- Urban drivers prioritizing style over ultimate cargo space
- Value seekers comparing features per peso spent
Your Next Steps
Immediate Action Checklist:
- Test drive during rush hour to evaluate DCT behavior
- Measure rear legroom with your child seats installed
- Compare insurance quotes at AutoDeal.com.ph/car-insurance
- Negotiate servicing packages – Changan offers 5-year warranty
Recommended Competitor Comparisons:
- MG ZST Trophy (better infotainment, less power)
- Geely Coolray Sport (smoother transmission, higher cost)
- Kia Seltos (strong resale, fewer features)
Does the CS35 Plus' tech advantage outweigh established rivals' polish? The answer depends on your budget and patience with its quirks – but this Chinese contender forces the entire segment to upvalue their offerings. What's your biggest priority: cutting-edge features or proven reliability? Share your perspective below.
