Motoring

Changan’s Alsvin inches into affordable compact sedan market in South Africa

The Alsvin has been on sale since the beginning of this year and is becoming popular with compact sedan buyers.

The Changan Alsvin is a model that has been available globally since 2017. And the car not only becomes the entry-level model in Changan’s product range, but also the brand’s direct rival for the Honda Amaze, Kia Pegas and Suzuki DZire.

Only two models on offer

The Citizen reports that aesthetically similar to the past-generation Toyota Corolla, the Changan Alsvin measures 4 390mm long, 1 725mm wide, 1 490mm tall and 2 535mm long on the wheelbase front. in addition the car also offers generous legroom for front and rear passengers, and a claimed boot space of 390 litres.

For South Africa, there are only two model derivatives available. With both offering different engine and gearbox options. Starting the range off, the entry-level CS makes use of a normally aspirated 1.4-litre petrol engine that delivers 74kW of power and 135Nm of torque. The only available transmission for this derivative is a five-speed manual.

A seven-inch infotainment system with voice recognition and Bluetooth is standard. Photo: Supplied

Full list of standard spec

Jumping up to the range topping CE. This derivative pairs a five-speed dual-clutch transmission to a bigger capacity 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that develops slightly more power and torque at 78kW and 145Nm respectively.

The standard spec list for the CS is generous and consists of the following:

  • body coloured bumpers and door handles
  • 15-inch alloy wheels
  • LED daytime running lights
  • multi-function steering wheel
  • height-adjustable steering column
  • front armrest
  • height-adjustable front seats
  • dual USB ports
  • four-speaker sound system
  • air-conditioning
  • electric windows
  • seven-inch infotainment system
  • electric mirrors
  • reverse camera
  • dual front airbags
  • rear parking sensors
  • ABS

Upping the ante, the CE gains a tyre pressure monitoring system, auto-on/off headlights, cruise control and a sunroof.

Alsvin has been a massive sales success in Pakistan. Photo: Supplied

Pricing

  • Alsvin 1.5 CS: R238 000
  • Alsvin 1.5 CE DCT: R271 200

Standard on both variants is a five-year/150 000km warranty. The CE boasts a five-year/75 000km service plan. Which is available as a cost-added option on the CS.

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Mark Jones

Mark walked out of an office in 2000; grabbed a pen and a stopwatch; and hit the road to test cars. He joined The Citizen in 2007 as a dedicated motoring professional and has covered the globe honing his road testing and writing skills. He is also a Regional Race Car Champion and South African Land Speed record holder.

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