Changan comes full circle in South Africa with reintroduction of 'half loaf' commercial vehicles

South Africa's original Chinese automotive brand, Changan, is making a comeback with the reintroduction of its Commercial range of vehicles. The brand first entered the South African market in 2006, offering compact light commercial vehicles modeled after the old Suzuki 'Half Loaf' vehicles. After being liquidated in 2012, Changan returned to South Africa in 2025 as a distinct car company, distributed by Jameel Motors.

The new range will be launched in September and will comprise five models, which are a "modern evolution" of the Suzuki-based vehicles sold in the early 2000s. These models are likely the Chana Star line, which includes a chassis cab, single cab, double cab, panel van, and minibus. The vehicles are based on 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre petrol engines, as seen in Pakistan where they are also known as M8 and M9.

Jameel Motors, the importer, promises a five-year or 200,000km warranty for the commercial range in South Africa. Marinus Venter, country manager of Jameel Motors South Africa, notes that Changan built a strong reputation in the country as a trusted partner for SMEs, and the reintroduction aims to support a new generation of South African businesses. Further details on the products will be released closer to the launch.