Changan CS35 Plus: A Feature-Rich Compact SUV for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia: Changan’s compact SUV arrives with a standard 158 hp turbo engine and a starting price of SAR 73,200, aiming directly at established Korean and Japanese rivals.

The Changan CS35 Plus is now available in Saudi Arabia, entering the competitive compact SUV segment with a clear value proposition. Prices start from SAR 73,200 including VAT for the Trend trim, and every model gets a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It’s a direct challenge to the segment’s naturally aspirated benchmarks like the Hyundai Creta and Nissan Kicks.

Quick Read

• Prices start at SAR 73,200 for the Trend and go up to SAR 82,225 for the Limited, all including VAT.
• A 1.4-litre turbo engine with 158 hp and 260 Nm of torque is standard across the range.
• The powertrain uses a 7-speed DCT automatic and is front-wheel drive.
• Key rivals are the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Nissan Kicks, over which the CS35 Plus has a power advantage.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Vehicle category	Compact SUV
Engine	1.4-litre turbo GDI petrol
Maximum power	158 hp
Maximum torque	260 Nm
Transmission	7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Claimed fuel economy	17.3 km/L
Fuel tank capacity	53 litres
Starting price	SAR 73,200 including VAT
Highest listed trim price	SAR 82,225 including VAT

Body

Changan’s strategy for the CS35 Plus hinges on two numbers: 158 hp and SAR 73,200. The standard turbocharged engine offers more power than base models from its key competitors, and it does so at a compelling entry price. Distributed in the Kingdom by Almajdouie Motors, the compact SUV is offered in three trims: Trend, Smart, and the top-spec Limited. All versions use the same 1.4-litre turbo GDI petrol engine, producing a healthy 260 Nm of torque, channelled to the front wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic. Changan claims a fuel economy of 17.3 km/L from the 53-litre petrol tank.

Engine and Performance Specifications

Item	Detail
Engine type	1.4-litre turbo GDI petrol
Power	158 hp
Torque	260 Nm
Transmission	7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic
Drive type	Front-wheel drive
Claimed fuel economy	17.3 km/L
Fuel tank	53 litres

The equipment list is strong even on the entry Trend model. It includes a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, rear parking sensors with a camera, cruise control, keyless entry with remote start, and Mocha leather seats. Moving up to the SAR 76,475 Smart trim adds a panoramic sunroof, side and curtain airbags, a tyre-pressure monitor, and driver aids like lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The flagship Limited, at SAR 82,225, completes the package with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera system, automatic climate control, a wireless phone charger, and an electric tailgate. Rear AC vents are standard on all models, a critical feature for the region.

Trim-Wise Price Comparison

Trim	Price including VAT
Trend	SAR 73,200
Smart	SAR 76,475
Limited	SAR 82,225

Features by Trim

Feature	Trend	Smart	Limited
10.25-inch infotainment screen	Yes	Yes	Yes
Rear parking camera and sensors	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cruise control	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless entry with remote start	Yes	Yes	Yes
Mocha leather seats	Yes	Yes	No
Panoramic sunroof	No	Yes	Yes
Side and curtain airbags	Not specified	Yes	Yes
Tyre-pressure monitoring	Not specified	Yes	Yes
Lane-departure warning	Not specified	Yes	Yes
Blind-spot monitoring	Not specified	Yes	Yes
7-inch digital instrument cluster	No	No	Yes
360-degree camera	No	No	Yes
Automatic climate control	Not specified	Not specified	Yes
Wireless phone charger	No	No	Yes
Electric tailgate	No	No	Yes
Rear AC vents	Yes	Yes	Yes

Dimensionally, the CS35 Plus fits neatly into the urban crossover class. At 4,330 mm long and with a 2,600 mm wheelbase, it’s sized for city parking and manoeuvring. A ground clearance of 180 mm is adequate for city speed bumps and graded tracks, though it isn't intended for serious off-road use. The package is practical for small families and city commuters who want the higher seating position of an SUV without the large footprint.

Dimensions

Measurement	Detail
Length	4,330 mm
Wheelbase	2,600 mm
Ground clearance	180 mm

The primary consideration for buyers will be brand trust and long-term ownership costs. While the 5-year/150,000 km warranty provides significant peace of mind, the resale value of Chinese-brand vehicles has yet to match the predictability of their Korean and Japanese counterparts. The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos have a longer, proven track record in the Saudi market, which supports stronger residual values. The CS35 Plus counters with more performance and features for the initial outlay. The question is whether the upfront saving and richer specification sheet are enough to sway buyers from the established segment leaders.

Ownership and Rival Comparison

Factor	Changan CS35 Plus	Hyundai Creta / Kia Selto
Engine power	158 hp	Depends on variant
Purchase price	Starts at SAR 73,200	Depends on variant
Transmission	7-speed DCT	Depends on variant
Initial equipment	Feature-rich specification	Depends on trim
Warranty	5 years / 150,000 km	Depends on manufacturer
Resale value	Depends on market demand	Established market presence

Why Should Consumers Buy the Changan CS35 Plus?

1. Turbocharged Engine

The 1.4-litre turbocharged engine produces 158 hp and 260 Nm of torque, making the CS35 Plus an option for buyers who prioritise performance in a compact SUV.

2. Competitive Starting Price

With a starting price of SAR 73,200 including VAT, the CS35 Plus targets buyers looking for a compact SUV with a turbocharged engine and modern features.

3. Modern Cabin Features

The 10.25-inch infotainment screen, keyless entry, remote engine start and available higher-trim features appeal to consumers who value convenience and technology.

4. Practical Urban Dimensions

Its 4,330 mm length and 2,600 mm wheelbase make the CS35 Plus suitable for city driving, parking and everyday commuting.

5. Useful Features for Small Families

The five-seat layout, rear AC vents and parking assistance features make it a practical option for small families and daily use.

6. Warranty Coverage

The advertised five-year/150,000 km warranty offers additional peace of mind, subject to the manufacturer's terms and conditions.

7. An Alternative to Established Brands

The CS35 Plus gives buyers another option alongside the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Nissan Kicks, particularly if they prioritise engine output and equipment for the price.

Final Verdict

The Changan CS35 Plus combines a turbocharged engine, modern cabin technology and a competitive listed starting price. It is aimed at buyers who want a Compact SUV with practical dimensions and a generous feature list. Buyers should compare current prices, verify trim-specific equipment and test-drive the dual-clutch transmission before making a final decision.

 Also Read: Changan CS95 2026 Price in Saudi Arabia: SAR 118,325 and a 5-Year Warranty