Changan CS35

On the inside too, things are not too wow-like, with the Changan CS35 having a simple laid out cabin. However, it looks upmarket with certain decency to it.

The Y-shaped steering wheel centre looks different, and so does the binoculars like the instrument console behind it. The centre console too is very much inspired by that of the Hyundai Creta, with angular and vertical AC vents flanking the touchscreen infotainment system. The trapezoidal cluster below the infotainment system houses the buttons for climate control.

While the design of the interior cabin isn’t much inspiring, the space levels definitely are. For its size, the Changan CS35 has impressive back-seat space and under-thigh support. Also, the tall stand liberates much amount of the headroom at the rear as well. In terms of features too, the Changan CS35 is loaded with kit, including the likes of an electric sunroof and push-button start with keyless entry.

The Changan CS35 doesn’t break any new ground when it comes to exterior styling. Though it is far from being dated looking, CS35’s design is not something, which will turn many heads.

The front fascia of the Changan CS35 looks tad too simple with a rounded front grille and curvy headlamps, which Changan calls ‘Eagle-inspired’ and do come with nice looking daytime running LEDs and projector headlights. The black cladding and silver skid plates add some ruggedness to the design at front.

The side profile carries the simplicity factor forward with a nice upright stance, bulging out wheel arches and a strong character line flowing upwards from the front fender. The large roof rails and side body cladding make sure that the CS35 stays true to the SUV ethos. The alloy wheels, like the rest of the design, are plain-looking as well.

At the rear too, there is nothing fancy about the Changan CS35, and the small SUV comes with large tail lamps that look much similar to those of the Suzuki S-Cross. The large skid plate and spoiler make it look bulky when viewed from the rear.

The Changan CS35 is built on a monocoque frame, and so it has its body roll well under control despite its combination of compact size and tall stance. The 17-inch wheels on the CS35 give it the required stability and control on all kinds of speeds, while the soft suspension setup allows it to have a plush ride quality. The urban nerves of this SUV do make it not so suitable for driving over rough terrains, though.

Under the hood, the Changan CS35 is fitted with a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine, which is offered with both the choices of a 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes. The engine is capable of producing a maximum power output of 156 PS, while the peak torque output stands at 210 Nm.

The Changan CS35 is decently equipped with many safety features for its category, the list of which includes four airbags, ABS with EBD, tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability program, hill start assist, reverse parking sensors and camera, cruise control and an exclusive smartphone app that monitors driving skills.

With its too laid back approach in styling, the Changan CS35 isn’t an SUV which will set your pulses racing just by the way it looks. However, it feels practical with a safe design outside as well as inside, a decent list of features, which justify its pricing, adequate performance, and ride quality which do make it a practical choice for a small family.