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Changan CS35: first generation, CS35 Plus and what to know before buying
The Changan CS35 is a compact SUV produced in Chongqing from 2012 to 2022 and one of the most well-known models from the Chinese manufacturer. We look at how the first generation differs from the 2017 refreshed version and its successor, the CS35 Plus, which engines are on offer and what to check before buying such a car.
CS35 in brief
The CS35 is a five-door front-wheel-drive compact SUV, around 4.2 metres long with a wheelbase of about 2.55 metres. It's designed for city driving and daily commuting, not for heavy off-roading.
The primary market is China. The car was also assembled in Iran (2015–2019) and sold in a few other countries, such as Chile. It is not officially sold in Lithuania.
Which version to choose
The first CS35 (2012–2016) has a simpler design and less equipment. In 2017, the car was refreshed: the front and rear lights were changed, and the design became more modern.
In some markets, the refreshed CS35 was sold under the Oshan COS5 name (from 2019). Later, the CS35 was replaced by the CS35 Plus—a newer model with a different body.
When buying a used car, the technical condition and service history are more important than the year of manufacture.
Engines and transmissions
The main CS35 engine is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol unit, producing around 128 hp (94 kW). In some markets, a 1.5-litre turbo engine (around 156 hp) is also offered.
Transmissions come as a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The Oshan COS5 version also offered a CVT gearbox. All versions are front-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a used CS35
Inspect the underside of the body, sills, and wheel arches for rust, as well as paint quality and uneven gaps that might indicate previous damage.
Request the service history. Check if the engine has any oil leaks, if the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, and if the manual gearbox operates without grinding.
Investigate parts availability: there is no official representative in Lithuania, so some parts might need to be ordered from abroad.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by market, so we describe the versions by transmission and body style.
Pirmoji karta
2012–2016 model yearsThe initial CS35 version with a simpler appearance.
- 1.6-litre petrol engine
- 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox
- Front-wheel drive
Atnaujinta versija
From 2017 onwardsUpdated headlights and a more modern look.
- New front and rear lights
- The same core engines
- Often — more features than the early version
Oshan COS5
From 2019Refreshed CS35 version, sold as the Oshan model.
- CVT gearbox
- Refreshed looks (2020)
- Sold under the separate Oshan series name
CS35 Plus
Later generationCS35 replacement model with a different body
- Newer body
- Wider engine choice
- Replaced the original CS35
Comparing versions
| Pirmoji karta | Atnaujinta 2017 | Oshan COS5 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Budget city car | For those who want a more modern look | For those who want a CVT gearbox |
| Gearbox | Manual / automatic | Manual / automatic | CVT |
| Headlights | Original design | Refreshed | Refreshed |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget-friendly | Budget-friendly | Affordable |
The cheapest option is the first generation, but the refreshed version looks more modern. It's crucial to find a well-maintained car with a known history.
Pros
- Compact dimensions and easy city driving
- Simple, non-luxury tech
- Several engine and gearbox options
- Low purchase prices
Cons
- There is no official representative in Lithuania
- Harder to find parts and mechanics
- Limited selection of used cars and difficult-to-verify history
Frequently asked questions
Is the CS35 sold in Lithuania?
Officially, no. Used cars are rare, mostly individually imported.
What's the difference between the CS35 and CS35 Plus?
The CS35 Plus is the later, newer model with a different body and a wider range of engines. The original CS35 was produced from 2012–2016, with a refresh in 2017.
What engines does the CS35 have?
The most common is the 1.6-litre petrol engine (around 128 hp). In some markets, a 1.5-litre turbo engine was also offered.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
