Changan has just stamped its ticket into the commercial vehicle space with the introduction of the versatile Star range in our local market.
The Star is a universal commercial workhorse vehicle that can fit into every kind of work environment , thanks to an assortment of body variants one can choose from. Mainly, there are five body styles: a Single Cab Dropside, Double Cab Dropside, Box Body, Panel Van , and Mini Van . This gives the Star an edge over the Suzuki Eeco, which is a popular budget-friendly alternative in the segment.
All derivatives will utilize the same engine
There will be just one engine powering the entire Star range in the form of a 1.25-litre petrol engine producing 72kW and 119Nm, paired with a five-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels. For handling and coming to a complete stop, the vehicle is fitted with standard front disc brakes that do a good job of heat dissipation, particularly when carrying heavy loads.
The exterior is a "Optional" treat
A body for everybody, whether you carry long items, fragile parcels, or even people, Changan seems to have that covered for you. Exterior attributes are those of the "working sense" nothing over the top, but everything to ensure your goods are transported from point A to B without hassle.
The first thing you would notice is the steelies fitted to the wheels, which are 14 inches in diameter and can be dressed in any size tire to ensure that replacements are easy to access anywhere in Mzansi. To light your way, the Star range will have to do with halogen projector headlights, while select models benefit from additional safety and visibility features: the Single Cab and Double Cab include front fog lights and body- colored bumpers, while the Mini Van features a high-mounted brake light to improve visibility in traffic.
Just how much can the Star carry
The Star is set to have the best payload capacity in its segment, starting with the Single Cab Dropside, this body style opens one up to 1,090kg. The Double Cab Dropside carries 1,070kg which is approximately 45% more than the segment’s best-selling competitor. The Box Body supports 985kg, followed by the Panel Van at 710kg and the Mini Van at 670kg.
“Besides being affordable and durable, these vehicles have also been conceived with convenience in mind,” says Marinus Venter, Country Manager at Jameel Motors South Africa. “We’re confident that there is something in the Star Range for every business owner who needs a light commercial vehicle.”
What is the interior of the Star range
The cabin is centered around driver convienece without sparring a sense of comfort for the interior occupants. Seats are covered in a breathable cloth fabric and allow for adjusting with reclining functionality, standard across the range. Headrests are adjustable too, three point seatbelts are a standard feature as well.
Not just simplified cabin allocation, because the vehicle actually offers a good list of amenities sure to keep drivers comfortable in the space. To keep the jams rolling, the car is fitted with a multimedia system offering AM/FM radio, USB connectivity, and MP3 playback. There are charging points included in the vehicle as well, like the power socket for charging mobile devices or handheld equipment. The Mini Van also features rear air conditioning for passenger comfort.
Not manual rollers here since the vehicle comes equipped with power operated windows for the driver and passenger as standard across the range. Additional convenience features include electric windows on both the Single Cab and Double Cab — with central locking included on the Double Cab — as well as a standard steering lock across the range. The Panel Van and Mini Van further benefit from an energy-absorbing steering wheel.
How far can the vehicle carry items
Changan assure the Star is good for fuel rating of 7.5 litres per 100km for the Dropside models and Box Body, and 7.1 litres per 100km for the Panel Van and Mini Van. The 40 liter tank filled to the brim offers up 500km, CO₂ emissions are rated at 178g/km for the trucks and Box Body, and 166g/km for the vans, with the engine meeting Euro 4 emissions standards.
Pricing
- Star Single Cab Dropside - R189,000 (Excl. VAT: R164,348)
- Star Double Cab Dropside - R199,000 (Excl. VAT: R173,043)
- Star Panel Van - R204,000 (Excl. VAT: R177,391)
- Star Box Body - R219,000 (Excl. VAT: R190,435)
- Star Mini Van - R219,000 (Excl. VAT: R190,435)
Every model in the Star Range is backed by a five-year/200,000km warranty, including five years/200,000km of 24/7 roadside assistance the longest coverage in the segment. Service and maintenance plans are available as optional extras, while self-service kits provide additional flexibility for owners who prefer to manage their own maintenance without affecting warranty coverage.