Changan UNI-Z

Model Overview

The Changan UNI-Z is a compact SUV under Changan Automobile's UNI series, which first hit the market in May 2025. On 26 March 2026, the 2026 annual facelift model was officially launched; the pure-petrol version offers two variants, namely 500Bar PRO and 500Bar MAX, with official prices ranging from RM115,900 to RM124,900. The plug-in hybrid version (UNI-Z PHEV) was launched earlier on 28 February 2026 with 3 variants priced between RM118,900 and RM135,900, with starting prices going as low as RM98,900 after factoring in trade-in rebates and promotional perks. Positioned in the family compact SUV segment, its main rivals include mainstream contenders like the Haval H6 and Geely Boyue L.

Design Language

The 2026 Changan UNI-Z retains the UNI family's signature "Vast Universe" design language. Up front, it features a borderless parametric matrix grille seamlessly integrated with smoked headlamp clusters, delivering a commanding road presence. The triangular air curtains on both flanks of the front bumper are larger than before, accented with chrome trim forming a fang-like motif for a more sculpted look. In profile, the SUV sports a subtle fastback silhouette with a floating roofline, complemented by a sharp continuous character line and 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. The rear is fitted with a full-width smoked taillight bar, a sleek roof spoiler, and a quad-exhaust layout with twin tips on each side. In terms of dimensions, the petrol version measures 4,730 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,660 mm tall (1,680 mm for selected variants), with a 2,795 mm wheelbase; the PHEV variant shares identical dimensions at 4,730 mm × 1,890 mm × 1,660 (1,680) mm with the same 2,795 mm wheelbase. Exterior paint options include Stellar White, Starship Grey, Starry Night Black, and others, with Moonlight Silver newly introduced for the PHEV variant. It boasts a low aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.338 Cd.

Inside, the 2026 UNI-Z adopts a wraparound minimalist cockpit layout. The most notable update is the all-new three-spoke flat-bottom sports steering wheel and a column-mounted electronic gear selector replacing the traditional centre console gear lever, freeing up valuable storage space. Interior colour schemes include Mysterious Red and Night Black. The dashboard houses a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster alongside a 14.6-inch floating central touchscreen.

Powertrain and Performance

Petrol Versionis powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged New Blue Whale 500Bar ultra-high-pressure direct-injection engine (engine code JL473ZQD), churning out 141 kW (approx. 192 PS) and a peak torque of 310 Nm between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. Power is delivered via a new-generation Blue Whale 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT). It completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in an official 7.8 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h. WLTC combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.13 L/100 km on RON 92 petrol. Standard boot space stands at 638 litres, expandable to 1,425 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

Plug-in Hybrid Version (PHEV)utilises a Blue Whale hybrid powertrain comprising a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a front-mounted single electric motor. The internal combustion engine produces 72 kW and 125 Nm of torque, while the electric motor generates 160 kW and 251 Nm. The entire PHEV line-up is equipped with CATL-sourced lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery packs. It delivers a CLTC pure-electric driving range of 130 km and a total combined range of 1,250 km. The official 0–100 km/h acceleration takes 7.4 seconds. With DC fast charging supported up to 85 kW, a 30% to 80% state of charge takes just 15 minutes. Fuel consumption with a depleted battery is rated as low as 5.09 L/100 km.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the UNI-Z rides on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup (E-type multi-link design). The front subframe utilises a cradle-type frame structure. The suspension is tuned primarily for comfort, efficiently soaking up road undulations and minor vibrations. However, during spirited driving or quick cornering maneuvers, the softer damping setup produces noticeable body roll. It runs a front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout with electric power steering (EPS) and disc brakes on all four corners, riding on 225/55 R19 tyres. Kerb weight is rated at 1,500 kg, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 1,895 kg.

Cabin and Convenience Features

On the tech front, the 2026 UNI-Z comes equipped with the Tianshu Smart OS infotainment system. The system deeply integrates AI voice large language models (Tongyi Qianwen & DeepSeek), supporting wake-up-free voice commands, continuous multi-command recognition, and full-scenario intelligent voice interaction. Smartphone connectivity covers Apple CarPlay, CarLink, and HUAWEI HiCar. Vehicle functions can also be managed remotely via a smartphone app. Additional features include mic-free in-car karaoke and built-in AutoNavi navigation.

For comfort and convenience, the range-topping 500Bar MAX variant adds driver seat memory and massage functions. The driver's seat offers 6-way power adjustment, while the front passenger seat gets 4-way power adjustment. Acoustic laminated glass is fitted across the vehicle to ensure a quiet and refined cabin. A 67-inch panoramic sunroof comes standard across the entire range. The interior features extensive soft-touch leatherette upholstery, covering an area of up to 11.5 m².

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of safety, the UNI-Z is equipped with dual front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length front-to-rear curtain airbags. Active safety equipment standard across the range includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

For driver assistance, the 2026 UNI-Z features the Tianshu Intelligent Driving Assist Vision Edition. New capabilities added to the suite include reverse tracking assist and lane change assist. Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Centering Assist (LCA), a 540° 3D panoramic camera system, Auto Hold, and Hill-Start Assist (HSA) come standard across all variants. Additional safety alerts include Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Door Opening Warning (DOW), and Lead Vehicle Departure Alert. Optional packages offer further convenience features such as automated parking assist and a panoramic sunroof.

Market Performance and Reception

The Changan UNI-Z enjoyed strong sales momentum upon its debut. Between January and October 2024, cumulative sales surpassed 85,000 units, maintaining a steady monthly average of over 8,000 units. In November 2024, monthly deliveries reached 11,410 units, marking three consecutive months of surpassing the 10,000-unit milestone. For the full year of 2025, cumulative sales of the UNI-Z new energy vehicle series reached approximately 72,763 units. However, sales came under noticeable pressure entering 2026—January and February deliveries lingered at around 2,000 units each; while March saw a brief rebound to 9,507 units following the spec upgrade, sales tumbled to 1,585 units in April. Market analyses pointed out that the PHEV's update relied mainly on minor specification tweaks and feature reshuffling, with some additions offset by omissions, including a cost-down revision to the less visible battery cooling system.

In terms of owner feedback, drivers widely appreciate the generous cabin space afforded by the 2,795 mm wheelbase, the punchy performance of the 1.5T Blue Whale engine, and the fluid operation of the Tianshu Smart Cabin. Compared to the Haval H6, the UNI-Z holds a clear upper hand in length, width, and wheelbase. On the downside, complaints mainly centre on noticeable body lean during cornering due to the comfort-oriented suspension tuning, alongside mixed reactions to certain spec adjustments. Overall, leveraging UNI's signature borderless styling, the 1.5T New Blue Whale powertrain (192 PS / 7.8s 0–100 km/h), a class-leading 2,795 mm wheelbase, Tianshu Smart OS, and Level 2 ADAS suite, the Changan UNI-Z offers a well-rounded, tech-forward package in the RM110,000 to RM130,000 compact SUV segment, though sustaining its sales momentum amid cut-throat competition remains an ongoing challenge.