Is the 2026 Changan X5 PLUS worth buying? Ten pieces of heartfelt advice to consider before you place an order.

Tip 1: Don’t let the “starting from RMB 59,900” price fool you — that’s only for the entry-level manual version.

Yes, the limited-time starting price is RMB 59,900, but it applies to the 1.5L manual Luxury model with a 5-speed gearbox. It makes just 81 kW (110 hp) and doesn’t support connected-car features, so the infotainment screen is fairly basic.

Unless you’re comfortable driving a manual and your budget is extremely tight, it’s worth looking at the 1.5T automatic version instead. The Pioneer Pro starts from RMB 75,900, with much stronger performance and more useful features. For daily commuting, the difference is very noticeable                                            Tip 2: The 1.5T engine is the real highlight — and don’t be afraid of the 7-speed DCT.

The higher-spec versions use Changan’s Blue Core 1.5T engine, producing 141 kW (192 hp) and 310 N·m of torque. It can accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 7.51 seconds, which is seriously quick for an SUV in this price range.

It is paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. You may feel a slight hesitation at very low speeds sometimes, but if you accelerate smoothly and anticipate traffic ahead, it is more than refined enough for daily driving.

The best part? It only needs regular 92 RON petrol, so it is easy and affordable to run.                                                                                                                    Tip 3: The Transcend Pro is the best-value version in the lineup.

Among the five available trims, the Transcend Pro, priced from RMB 78,900 for a limited time, is arguably the smartest choice. It comes with practical features such as lane-departure warning, driver-fatigue reminder, a 360° camera with transparent chassis view, panoramic sunroof, power driver’s seat, Sony audio system, and keyless start.

For less than RMB 10,000 more than the lower trim, you get a much more complete driving and ownership experience. If your budget allows, this is the version I would recommend.                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Tip 4: The space is impressive, but don’t expect too much in terms of comfort features.

With a 2,715 mm wheelbase, rear passengers have plenty of legroom, even enough to sit comfortably with crossed legs. The 584L boot is also practical: fold the rear seats down and it can handle a stroller, camping gear, or even small furniture.

That said, there are no heated or ventilated seats across the range, and even the higher trims only offer power adjustment for the driver’s seat. If you live somewhere with very cold winters or hot, humid summers, this is something worth considering before you buy.                                                                              Tip 5: Don’t take “1,000 km per tank” too literally — around 8L/100 km in city driving is more realistic.

The official WLTC fuel consumption is 6.2L/100 km. With a 51L fuel tank, that works out to roughly 820 km per tank under ideal conditions — not 1,000 km.

In real-world use, expect around 8–9L/100 km in heavy city traffic and about 6.5L/100 km on the highway. If your average consumption is around 7L/100 km and you drive 20,000 km per year, fuel will cost roughly RMB 9,800 annually at RMB 7 per litre.

It is not EV-level cheap to run, but it is still reasonable for a petrol SUV. Smooth acceleration and fewer hard brakes can make a noticeable difference.               Tip 6: Don’t expect much from the basic infotainment system — the higher trims are far more enjoyable.

The entry-level manual and automatic versions have a fairly basic central screen. They do not offer connected-car functions, voice control is limited, and Bluetooth is about all you will use regularly.

If you want features such as a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup and voice control for the air conditioning and navigation, go for the Transcend Pro or Excellence Pro. Some higher-spec versions also come with a 30-inch wraparound display, which gives the cabin a much more modern, high-tech feel.                                  Tip 7: The suspension is one of its underrated strengths.

With MacPherson front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, the X5 PLUS has a more sophisticated setup than many SUVs in this price range.

It handles speed bumps with decent composure and feels more stable through corners, with less body roll than you might expect. For family use, it strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Compared with rivals such as the Haval H6 and Geely Boyue COOL, its chassis setup is a real advantage worth test-driving for yourself.                                                                                                                                                                                                              Tip 8: Wind noise is noticeable at highway speeds, but it can be improved.

Some owners say wind noise becomes more obvious above 100 km/h, especially around the A-pillars and side mirrors. After taking delivery, you can add door sealing strips or do some basic sound insulation. It usually costs only a few hundred RMB but can make the cabin noticeably quieter.

Don’t expect the silence of a RMB 300,000 luxury car, but with a few simple upgrades, it should be comfortable enough for everyday commuting and road trips.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Tip 9: Maintenance costs are reasonable, but keep an eye on the brake pads.

The first service is free, and routine servicing typically costs around RMB 500. Including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, annual running costs are estimated at about RMB 14,000.

However, some owners have reported relatively fast brake-pad wear. It is a good idea to have the braking system checked at least once a year — safety should never be overlooked.

Tip 10: It may be a good time to buy, but don’t compare only the sticker price.

Current offers can be attractive, but the lowest vehicle price does not always mean the best deal. Compare the final on-road price, financing costs, insurance, maintenance packages, and any included extras before placing your order.