The Changan Star 5 is a microvan produced by Changan Kaicene (Changan Auto's commercial vehicle arm), positioned as a dual-purpose commercial and passenger multi-purpose vehicle. Since the debut of the 1.2L variant in late 2019, the model has seen continuous updates, including an annual facelift powered by a 1.4L engine launched in July 2022. With its compact dimensions and accessible pricing, the Changan Star 5 serves as a reliable workhorse in urban logistics, small business operations, and short-distance urban-rural commutes. As of June 2026, the 2022 model remains the primary year-model on sale, with 2025 and newer iterations also available in selected markets. Its core highlights lie in its versatile cabin layout and exceptionally low cost of ownership. The manufacturer's recommended retail price currently ranges from RM38,900 to RM40,900.
The Changan Star 5 adopts a rugged, utilitarian exterior design that prioritises functionality. Up front, a four-slat chrome radiator grille connects seamlessly to dual-leaf diamond-shaped headlamps, with the low beams incorporating projector lenses to create a bold, sculpted "V"-shaped front fascia. The upright, flat rear end is specifically engineered to maximise internal vertical cargo room.
In terms of dimensions, the Value Edition measures 3,980 × 1,600 × 1,890 mm (L × W × H) with a 2,560 mm wheelbase, while the Classic Edition extends overall length to 4,005 mm. The side profile features clean horizontal lines and dual manual sliding doors that open up to 70 degrees, facilitating effortless loading and unloading in tight urban spaces. Inside, the cabin embraces a minimalist, functional aesthetic with black-and-grey fabric upholstery and durable hard plastics throughout—delivering a straightforward, no-frills workhorse environment.
The Changan Star 5 is available with two naturally aspirated petrol engine options: a 1.2L and a 1.4L unit. The mainstream 1.4L all-aluminium powerplant (engine code Jiangling EA14MR or JL473Q3) features multi-point fuel injection, developing a maximum output of 76 kW (103 hp) and a peak torque of 133 Nm. Power is delivered to the wheels via a standard 5-speed manual gearbox across the range. It delivers an official NEDC combined fuel consumption figure of 6.5 L/100 km, while the 1.2L variant is rated at 6.8 L/100 km, returning sensible fuel economy. Depending on the specific variant, top speed ranges between 112 km/h and 120 km/h. Notably, the Changan Star 5 runs comfortably on standard RON 92 petrol.
Under the skin, the Changan Star 5 employs a mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel-drive (MR) layout typical of microvans in its class. The suspension setup pairs a front MacPherson strut independent suspension with a rear leaf spring non-independent suspension, where the 6-leaf rear spring pack provides robust load-carrying capacity. Rolling on 165/70 R14 tyres, braking is handled by a front disc and rear drum setup integrated with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) to maintain braking stability under full payload conditions. The chassis is tuned primarily for heavy-duty hauling, effortlessly handling rough road surfaces. The higher-spec Classic Edition is further fitted with 14-inch rear drum brakes for enhanced stopping performance.
The cabin is engineered around practical utility, offering versatile layouts including 2-seater (panel van), 5-seater, and 7-seater (window van) configurations. All seats are finished in durable fabric and can be folded or removed completely to balance passenger and cargo requirements. With the rear seats removed, the panel van configuration provides a completely flat loading bed measuring approximately 2.2 metres long, 1.5 metres wide, and 1.3 metres high, yielding a cargo capacity of around 3.5 cubic metres and a maximum payload rating of up to 500 kg.
In terms of convenience features, it comes equipped with manual air conditioning, front power windows, central locking, and a remote key fob. Modern infotainment and smart connectivity are intentionally omitted—with no central colour touchscreen, Bluetooth, or OTA updates—prioritising long-term reliability and low maintenance simplicity.
On the safety front, the Changan Star 5 focuses on meeting fundamental regulatory standards. The body structure utilizes a 3H high-rigidity chassis; however, in terms of passive safety, mainstream variants are not equipped with front driver or passenger airbags, nor side or curtain airbags. Active safety comes standard with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) to prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking manoeuvres. Additional safety equipment includes a seatbelt reminder and ISOFIX child seat anchors on selected variants. In terms of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the vehicle offers no Level 2 or semi-autonomous features, omitting systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking across all trims. Buyers prioritising comprehensive safety protection should take note of these passive safety limitations.
The Changan Star 5 maintains consistent performance in the commercial vehicle market. In February 2025, it recorded a monthly sales volume of around 457 units, with average monthly sales remaining steady in the mid-hundreds through the first half of 2025. For perspective, in April 2025, the vehicle logged 447 units in monthly sales, ranking 9th among models priced under RM50,000. Owner feedback has been broadly positive, particularly praising its versatile interior space and exceptionally low running costs. Commercial vehicle reviews highlight that its maximum 3.5 m³ cargo space easily satisfies the core hauling requirements of small businesses. However, some owners have noted common trade-offs, including basic interior plastics, noticeable engine noise under load, and the absence of airbags on selected trims.
In terms of market competition, the Changan Star 5 contends in the same segment as the Wuling Zhiguang, Dongfeng Sokon K05S, and Changan Kaicene Ruixing M60. Compared to the Wuling Zhiguang, the Changan Star 5 holds an advantage in overall length and wheelbase, translating to more generous interior volume. As a core strategic model in Changan Kaicene's microvan portfolio, underpinned by Changan Auto's extensive service network and budget-friendly positioning, it continues to hold solid market appeal in the sub-RM50,000 commercial and passenger vehicle segment, serving as a dependable entry-level multi-purpose vehicle for small traders and self-employed operators.
© 2024 Bitauto.com. All Rights Reserved.
Bitauto (www.yiche.com and www.bitauto.com) is one of the most visited automotive websites in China. We provide detailed info on Chinese car brands available in your area. Please note that the information provided on this website is based on publicly available data and is for reference only. It may not be fully updated or accurate at all times.
Help us improve our website
