The Evolution of the Changan CS75 Plus: A Flagship Chinese SUV Reinvented

Changan

The Changan CS75 Plus is one of the most important modern compact SUVs to emerge from China’s rapidly evolving automotive industry. Introduced in 2019 as a more premium and technologically advanced counterpart to the original CS75, the CS75 Plus has undergone continuous development through multiple “generations,” facelifts, and trim expansions.

From its debut as a sporty, tech-focused crossover to its current form as a larger, more refined SUV, the CS75 Plus reflects Changan Automobile’s ambition to compete with global brands. This article explores its full evolution, including production years, trims, variants, and future outlook.

Origins and Background

Before the CS75 Plus, Changan had already established itself with the original CS75, launched in 2014. However, as competition intensified in China’s SUV market, Changan sought to create a more upscale version that would appeal to younger buyers and rival international brands.

The CS75 Plus was unveiled at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show and officially launched later that year.

Unlike the standard CS75, the CS75 Plus was designed with:

  • Sportier styling
  • More powerful engines
  • Advanced infotainment and safety systems

Importantly, both models were sold simultaneously, with the CS75 Plus positioned as the more premium offering.

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First Generation (2019–2021)

Launch and Production

  • Production began: 2019
  • Market launch: 2019
  • Production span: 2019–2021 (pre-facelift phase)

The first-generation CS75 Plus established the model’s identity as a stylish, performance-oriented compact SUV.

Powertrain Options

At launch, the CS75 Plus offered two turbocharged engines:

  • 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four (280T)
    • Approximately 178 horsepower
  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (360T)
    • Approximately 233 horsepower

Transmission options included:

  • 6-speed automatic
  • 6-speed manual (limited availability in early models)

Trim Levels (2019–2021)

The CS75 Plus adopted a more structured trim naming system compared to earlier Changan models. Common trims included:

  • Base / Elite
    • 1.5T engine
    • Standard infotainment system
    • Essential safety features
  • Luxury
    • Larger touchscreen
    • Premium interior materials
    • Additional driver assistance features
  • Premium / Flagship
    • 2.0T engine
    • Full digital cockpit
    • Advanced safety systems

Dual Styling Strategy

A unique feature of early CS75 Plus models was the availability of two distinct exterior styles:

  • A standard version with a more refined look
  • A sport version with aggressive accents

This approach allowed Changan to target both conservative and performance-oriented buyers.

2021 Facelift (First Generation Refresh)

Updates and Changes

Around late 2020 to 2021, the CS75 Plus received its first major update.

Key improvements included:

  • Revised front grille and bumper design
  • Updated wheel designs
  • Minor interior refinements

Although not officially labeled a new generation, this facelift kept the model competitive in a rapidly evolving segment.

Trim Adjustments (2021)

During this phase, trims were streamlined and sometimes renamed depending on market:

  • Trend
  • Smart
  • Limited

These trims typically corresponded to:

  • Entry-level (Trend)
  • Mid-range (Smart)
  • Fully equipped (Limited)

Second Generation (2022–Present, Facelifted Model)

Introduction

In 2022, Changan introduced what it marketed as the second-generation CS75 Plus, though it was technically a major facelift rather than a completely new platform.

  • Production start: 2022
  • Status: Ongoing

Design Evolution

The 2022 model featured:

  • A redesigned front fascia
  • Updated rear styling
  • More refined aerodynamic elements

Despite these changes, the side profile remained largely unchanged.

Powertrain Upgrades

The engine lineup was updated for improved performance:

  • 1.5L turbo engine
    • ~188 horsepower
  • 2.0L turbo engine
    • ~233 horsepower

Both engines were paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing earlier gearboxes.

Trim Levels (2022–2023)

The second-generation CS75 Plus expanded its trim structure:

  • Trend (Base)
    • Standard safety and infotainment
  • Smart
    • Enhanced connectivity and comfort
  • Limited / Flagship
    • Full technology suite
    • Premium interior

These trims were widely used in export markets as well.

Technology Improvements

Key advancements included:

  • Larger dual-screen displays
  • Improved infotainment software
  • Enhanced driver assistance systems

Third Generation (2023 Facelift)

Launch

In April 2023, Changan introduced another update marketed as the third-generation CS75 Plus.

  • Production start: 2023
  • Status: Ongoing

Changes and Features

This update focused on design refinement rather than mechanical changes:

  • New front-end styling
  • Revised rear bumper
  • Minor exterior updates

The interior and powertrains remained largely unchanged:

  • 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines
  • 8-speed automatic transmission

Trim Levels (2023–2024)

The trim lineup continued with:

  • Trend
  • Smart
  • Limited

In some markets, trims were simplified to:

  • Smart
  • Limited

Fourth Generation (2024–Present)

Introduction

The fourth-generation CS75 Plus marked the first true full redesign of the model.

  • Unveiled: July 2024
  • Launched: September 2024
  • Production: 2024–present

Major Design Changes

This generation introduced:

  • Larger dimensions
  • Longer wheelbase
  • Completely new exterior design

Key styling features:

  • Full-width LED light bars
  • Flush door handles
  • More aerodynamic body

Interior Overhaul

The cabin received a major upgrade:

  • Triple-screen dashboard layout
  • 10.25-inch digital cluster
  • 14.6-inch infotainment screen
  • 12.3-inch passenger display

Additional features:

  • Wireless charging
  • “Zero-gravity” front seats
  • Premium materials

Powertrain Options

At launch:

  • 1.5L turbo engine (~188 hp equivalent)
  • 8-speed automatic

Later addition (late 2024):

  • 2.0L turbo engine option

Trim Levels (2024–Present)

While official naming varies by market, trims generally include:

  • Standard / Base
  • Mid-Level (Smart/Elite equivalent)
  • Flagship / Premium

Higher trims emphasize:

  • Advanced driver assistance systems
  • Luxury interior features
  • Enhanced connectivity

Hybrid and Electrified Variants

In addition to gasoline models, the CS75 Plus lineup has explored electrification:

  • Plug-in hybrid variants introduced in select markets
  • Improved fuel efficiency and performance

These versions align with China’s push toward new energy vehicles.

Market Position and Global Expansion

The CS75 Plus competes in the compact SUV segment against:

  • Toyota RAV4
  • Honda CR-V
  • Haval F7

Key Strengths

  • Competitive pricing
  • Advanced technology
  • Modern design

Global Presence

The CS75 Plus has expanded beyond China into:

  • Middle East
  • Eastern Europe
  • Russia (since 2023)

Trim and Model Summary (2019–2025)

2019–2021 (First Generation)

  • Base / Elite
  • Luxury
  • Premium / Flagship

2021 Facelift

  • Trend
  • Smart
  • Limited

2022–2023 (Second Generation / Facelift)

  • Trend
  • Smart
  • Limited

2023–2024 (Third Generation)

  • Smart
  • Limited

2024–Present (Fourth Generation)

  • Standard
  • Mid-Level
  • Flagship

Design and Technology Evolution

Exterior

  • 2019: Sporty and aggressive
  • 2022: Refined and modern
  • 2024: Fully redesigned, futuristic

Interior

  • Early models: Dual-screen layout
  • Latest models: Triple-screen cockpit

Technology

  • Increasing use of AI-based systems
  • Improved driver assistance features
  • Advanced connectivity

Future Outlook

The future of the Changan CS75 Plus is closely tied to broader industry trends.

Electrification

  • Expansion of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants
  • Potential full electric successor

Autonomous Technology

  • Continued development of ADAS systems
  • Integration of AI-driven features

Global Growth

  • Increased exports
  • Expansion into new markets

Since its debut in 2019, the Changan CS75 Plus has undergone a rapid and continuous evolution. From a sporty upgrade of the original CS75 to a fully redesigned, technology-focused SUV, it has become one of Changan’s flagship models.

Key Highlights:

  • Production: 2019–present
  • Generations: Four (including multiple facelifts)
  • Engines: 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged
  • Trims: Base, Trend, Smart, Limited, Flagship

The CS75 Plus exemplifies how quickly Chinese automakers have advanced in design, technology, and global competitiveness. As Changan continues to innovate, the CS75 Plus is likely to remain a key player in the international compact SUV market for years to come.

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