Changan CS35 Plus

Model Overview

The Changan CS35 PLUS is a B-segment SUV from Changan Automobile, positioned as an "interconnected social SUV" tailored for young families and serving as the successor to the classic Changan CS35. The "PLUS" moniker signifies comprehensive upgrades across cabin space, performance, technology, and build quality. As a strategic model within Changan's "PLUS" family, the CS35 PLUS was tasked with bolstering the brand's presence in the compact SUV segment. In terms of pricing, taking the newly added entry-level "Blue Core NE 1.4T DCT Chao Xiang" variant as an example, it carries an official retail price of RM79,900, significantly lowering the barrier to entry compared to the Luxury variant.

Design Language

The Changan CS35 PLUS adopts Changan Automobile's signature family design language. Up front, the fascia is dominated by a large inverted trapezoidal front grille adorned with chrome inserts, flanked by headlamp clusters that visually widen the car's stance. Along the sides, clean and chiselled character lines pair with black plastic wheel arch claddings to accentuate its rugged SUV appeal, further complemented by functional roof rails. Around the back, trendy full-width tail lamps lend an added sense of depth and modern flair. Inside, the wraparound cabin features a clean, minimalist layout equipped with a large central infotainment touchscreen, a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, and a yacht-style gear lever, amplifying its tech-forward vibe.

Powertrain and Performance

The Changan CS35 PLUS is offered with two engine options: a 1.6L naturally aspirated unit and a 1.4T turbocharged engine. The core variants are powered by Changan's in-house developed Blue Core NE 1.4T high-pressure direct-injection engine, pushing out a maximum output of 118 kW (160 PS) and a peak torque of 260 Nm across a wide rev band of 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. This powerplant incorporates advanced engineering, including 350-bar direct injection and an integrated exhaust manifold. Transmission-wise, it is predominantly paired with Changan's proprietary 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), delivering smooth power delivery and shift refinement that stands out in the compact SUV class. Meanwhile, the 1.6L GDI engine is mated to a CVT, tuned primarily for fuel efficiency and linear drivability.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the Changan CS35 PLUS rides on a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FF) layout, utilising front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam setup—a benchmark configuration for this segment. The suspension is tuned distinctly for ride comfort, capably soaking up road imperfections to ensure a fuss-free daily commute. Its electric power steering (EPS) setup is lightly weighted with progressive damping, offering effortless manoeuvrability for family motorists.

Cabin and Equipment

A key highlight inside the cabin is the inCall infotainment suite, which delivers satellite navigation, multimedia entertainment, and connectivity via the central touchscreen display. Select variants have also been equipped with Tencent's AI in Car ecosystem, featuring integrated apps like QQ Music and Tencent Maps alongside voice command capability. Furthermore, the system supports 4G LTE connectivity, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and remote vehicle telematics via a smartphone app. Depending on the variant, convenience appointments include a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the Changan CS35 PLUS comes standard with essential active safety kit, including Electronic Stability Programme (ESP/ESC), Hill Start Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and reverse parking sensors. Higher-spec variants add a 360-degree HD surround-view monitor and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) for enhanced manoeuvring confidence and driving safety. For advanced driver assistance, select top-spec grades feature full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) capable of operating between 0 and 150 km/h with Stop & Go functionality, substantially reducing long-distance driving fatigue. It is further complemented by Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and emergency brake signal systems.

Market Performance and Verdict

As a key pillar in Changan's small SUV offensive, the CS35 PLUS was once a major volume driver for the brand. Delivery numbers show the crossover recorded sales of roughly 21,000 units throughout 2024 and around 9,790 units in 2025. However, under mounting pressure from the compact SUV segment and the rising wave of new energy vehicles (NEVs), sales of the CS35 PLUS experienced a sharp downturn, dwindling to single-digit monthly registrations by December 2025. While owners widely praise its Blue Core powertrain, sharp exterior styling, and smart tech features, the Changan CS35 PLUS, despite building a strong tech-centric reputation in the ICE small SUV space through its "PLUS" philosophy and Blue Core engineering, ultimately struggled to sustain its long-term market momentum.