Changan X5 PLUS

Model Overview

The Changan X5 PLUS is a compact SUV from Changan Automobile, targeted at the entry-level family car segment. In August 2025, the 2026 Changan X5 PLUS was officially launched, followed by the rollout of the all-new second-generation model in September of the same year. Available in five variants, the SUV carries official retail prices ranging from RM69,900 to RM103,900, with limited-time promotional prices starting from as low as RM59,900 to RM83,900. Positioned as a "new-generation sporty and tech-savvy SUV", it is aimed primarily at budget-conscious young buyers and family car shoppers, directly taking on mainstream C-segment SUVs like the Haval H6 and Geely Boyue.

Design Language

The 2026 Changan X5 PLUS retains its signature coupe-SUV styling, delivering an avant-garde, low-slung, and aggressively sporty stance. Up front, it features a large vase-profile grille accented with L-shaped chrome garnishes or dashed chrome inserts, flanking slim LED headlamps and chrome detailing to underscore its sporty presence. Mid-to-high-spec variants receive red accents to heighten the sporty aesthetic. Along the sides, a rising shoulder line creates a dynamic, forward-raked profile, complemented by dual five-spoke alloy wheels. Round the back, the rear is finished with split tail lamps and an F1 pilot-style high-mounted stop lamp. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,540 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,620 mm tall (height is 1,590 mm for the Pioneer PRO and higher variants), with a 2,715 mm wheelbase. Five exterior colours are available, with a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch wheels.

Moving inside, higher-spec variants are equipped with a 30-inch wrap-around triple-screen setup, where the auxiliary display can be customized to show tyre pressure, media playback, and other driving info; lower-to-mid-spec variants make do with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. The cabin features an all-black theme, accented by red trim inserts along the dashboard. The steering wheel is available in urethane or leather, while gear selector options include a conventional mechanical shifter or an electronic shift-by-wire lever.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 Changan X5 PLUS offers two powertrain options. The entry-level variant is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine pushing out 81 kW (approx. 110 PS) and 152 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Higher variants get Changan’s latest Blue Whale 1.5-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine (engine code JL473ZQD), featuring 500-bar ultra-high-pressure direct injection and a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) to produce 141 kW (approx. 192 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. Power is channelled through a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT). It completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in 7.51 seconds, on to a top speed of 205 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.45 L/100 km under the WLTC cycle, and it runs on RON 92 petrol. The vehicle comes backed by a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty.

Chassis and Handling

Under the skin, the Changan X5 PLUS features front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension setup as standard across the range—a rare, class-above specification for this price point. Benefiting from dedicated tuning, the SUV handles speed bumps cleanly and maintains composure during high-speed lane changes, striking a well-judged balance between handling agility and ride comfort. It is front-wheel drive (FWD), equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), and uses ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. Multiple drive modes are available, with a kerb weight of 1,370 kg.

Cabin and Features

In terms of in-car tech, equipment levels vary considerably across the lineup. The entry-level variant gets a 10.25-inch central touchscreen without connected car services; the Pioneer PRO variant gains a 7-inch full-digital instrument cluster; while higher-end models upgrade to dual 12.3-inch displays paired with the 30-inch wrap-around triple-screen layout. The infotainment system supports mobile app remote control, 4G connectivity, voice commands, over-the-air (OTA) updates, GPS navigation, and HUAWEI HiCar/Carlink smartphone integration. Standard kit across the range includes a reverse camera, cruise control, auto headlights, LED DRLs, power-adjustable side mirrors, and automatic climate control. Higher trims add keyless entry with push-button start, remote engine start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an opening panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a Sony premium sound system. Sports seats are standard across the board, offering 920 mm of rear legroom and a virtually flat rear floor. Boot capacity ranges from 584 to 1,318 litres, complemented by 27 practical storage compartments throughout the cabin.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the Changan X5 PLUS comes standard with dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Traction Control (ASR/TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESP/ESC). Higher trims gain active safety features such as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW). For driving aids, cruise control is fitted as standard, while top-spec variants boast Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), a 540-degree HD surround-view camera system with a transparent chassis view, and a 50-metre Reverse Tracking Assistant.

Market Performance and Reception

After crossing the 10,000-unit monthly sales mark for the first time in August 2025, sales of the Changan X5 PLUS held steady. Entering 2026, its market momentum solidified; aside from February when numbers dipped due to the festive holiday season, monthly sales consistently exceeded 9,000 units across the other three months. In March 2026, wholesale figures for the Changan X5 PLUS hit 15,722 units, bringing Q1 (Jan–Mar) cumulative sales to 37,016 units. Full-year sales for 2025 totaled 121,540 units, establishing the X5 PLUS as one of the primary sales pillars in Changan's SUV stable.

Owner feedback has been largely positive, with drivers praising its segment-exclusive multi-link rear suspension, punchy 1.5T Blue Whale engine (192 PS / 0–100 km/h in 7.51 seconds), and exceptional value at its RM59,900 starting price. On the flip side, the base 1.5L manual variant is considered somewhat lethargic with bare-bones kit; minor transmission hesitation is occasionally felt at low speeds, while tyre and wind noise become noticeable at highway cruising speeds; additionally, the cabin relies heavily on functional plastics, lacking a truly premium touch. All in all, powered by its Blue Whale 1.5T engine, independent multi-link rear suspension, generous 2,715 mm wheelbase, and an accessible RM59,900 starting price point, the Changan X5 PLUS has carved out a compelling, high-value proposition in the RM60,000 to RM100,000 compact SUV segment.