The seven-seater market has been one of the hottest segments for over a decade, accounting for a significant portion of vehicle sales. Whether you prefer MPVs or SUVs, there's a seven-seater to fit every budget and need. The Changan X7 Plus is the latest entrant in the competitive compact SUV segment, striving to provide a premium experience without the premium price. With its modern design, tech-laden interior, and efficient powertrain, the X7 Plus aims to compete with segment leaders from Japanese and Korean manufacturers. But does it offer a compelling package? We delve into its design, performance, technology, and practicality to find out.

Design and aesthetics

The Changan X7 Plus boasts a bold and contemporary exterior, exuding an upscale aura that rivals more established brands. Its front fascia features a large, intricately designed diamond-pattern grille flanked by slim LED headlights, contributing to a sharp, modern look. The sculpted side profile, highlighted by a tall belt line, strong character lines, and a floating roof effect, gives the SUV a clean yet dynamic stance. At the rear, connected LED taillights and a well-integrated spoiler unify the design. The 19-inch wheels enhance the vehicle's presence and sit beautifully within the arches. 

Inside, the X7 Plus continues to impress with a well-appointed cabin featuring high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and metallic accents. The dashboard is clean and modern, with a large digital instrument cluster seamlessly integrated into the infotainment system. Most importantly, the vehicle includes easy-to-use physical switches for the HVAC system.

Performance and handling

Under the hood, the Changan X7 Plus is powered by a Bluecore 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 185 PS and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. While these specifications are competitive, the real-world driving experience is what sets it apart. The turbocharged engine provides a linear and responsive power delivery, making overtaking and highway cruising effortless. On the road, the X7 Plus offers a balanced ride, with the suspension tuned for comfort while maintaining decent handling. It struggles a bit on slower speeds typical of barangay roads, but excels on the highway, where it becomes more composed. 

The electric power steering feels too light at low speeds, but this aids maneuverability. Fortunately, the steering gains some weight at higher speeds, providing greater stability. Body roll is minimal, offering confident handling in urban and highway conditions. Road noise insulation is below average, but this is to be expected at this price point.

Technology and features

One of the Changan X7 Plus’s biggest selling points is its extensive list of technology and features. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, voice control, and a user-friendly interface. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available, replaced instead by the CarAuto phone mirroring app. 

While the car includes some tech features, they are mostly modest and standard for this price range. The SUV also offers various driver assistance technologies, including standard cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system with a built-in dashcam feature, enhancing safety and convenience, particularly in city driving.

Comfort and practicality

Space is a strong suit of the Changan X7 Plus, providing ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Comfortable seats with leather upholstery deliver an executive feel.The front seats are electronically adjustable, well-cushioned, and supportive. Rear passengers benefit from reclining seats and dedicated air-conditioning vents, although they may find the mostly flat seat bottoms less comfortable. The third row is primarily suited for children or shorter adults. Occupants can also enjoy the massive canopy-type sunroof on sunny days. Cargo capacity is generous, featuring a wide and flat loading area that can accommodate large suitcases or grocery hauls. With the rear seats folded down, the X7 Plus transforms into a highly practical cargo carrier, ideal for weekend trips or transporting bulky items. There are strategically placed small storage compartments and cup holders throughout the cabin to keep everyone comfortable.

Fuel efficiency and safety

The Changan X7 Plus offers respectable fuel efficiency for a turbocharged engine, with an estimated 12-15 km/L in mixed driving conditions. The power-to-weight ratio is good, allowing the SUV to keep fuel consumption in check and striking a balance between performance and economy. The Changan X7 Plus is also equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including six SRS airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), speed-sensing door locks, automatic unlocking during a collision, and a smart keyless entry system with keyless start. Additional features include ABS with EBD, a traction control system, an electronic stability program, and hill hold control, enhancing confidence in various driving conditions.

Verdict

Priced at ₱1,399,000, the Changan X7 Plus effectively bridges the gap between affordability and luxury, offering a compelling package that undercuts its rivals without sacrificing quality. Its eye-catching design, tech-rich interior, comfortable ride, and robust feature set make it a serious contender in the compact SUV segment. For buyers seeking a premium experience without breaking the bank, the X7 Plus is a well-rounded choice. While its brand recognition may not match its Japanese or Korean counterparts, its impressive build quality and feature-packed offerings make it a vehicle worth considering. If Changan continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before it becomes a mainstream choice in the SUV market.