Follow Us on Google
By Moses Akaigwe
Popular Chinese automotive brand, Changan, is continuing its impressive growth across Africa, recording its best-ever monthly sales performance in South Africa while also strengthening its position in the Nigerian market.
Less than a year after its return to South Africa in October 2025, Changan achieved a major milestone in May 2026 by selling 200 vehicles, its highest monthly sales figure since re-entering the market.
The sales comprised 164 passenger vehicles and 36 light commercial vehicles, reflecting growing acceptance of the brand among South African motorists. Changan also ranked among the top three electric vehicle sellers in the country during the month, with 11 EVs sold.
The achievement underscores the brand’s growing popularity, supported by an expanding model range, a wider dealer network and increasing customer confidence.
Industry observers say the strong performance demonstrates that Changan is steadily establishing itself as a credible player in the South African automotive market.
The success story is similar in Nigeria, where Changan has continued to gain popularity since Mikano Motors became the brand’s exclusive distributor two years ago.
Today, Changan’s range of sedans, SUVs and light commercial vehicles is making significant inroads across different market segments in Nigeria.
Its SUV line-up includes the CS35 Plus, CS55 Plus, CS75 Plus and the flagship seven-seater CS95. The premium UNI Series, led by the UNI-K, has also attracted considerable attention, while the Alsvin and Eado Plus sedans continue to appeal to buyers seeking stylish and affordable transportation.
The Changan Hunter pick-up has equally become a strong contender in its segment, winning customers from established rival brands.
Other News
According to industry stakeholders, one of the key factors behind Changan’s growing acceptance in Nigeria is Mikano Motors’ commitment to providing customers with “peace of mind” through comprehensive after-sales support, generous warranty packages and competitive pricing of its vehicles.
Speaking on the company’s customer-focused approach, Group Executive Director of Mikano Motors, Joelle Haykal, said the management is committed to delivering a seamless ownership experience for Nigerian motorists.
She noted that beyond the strength of any vehicle brand, the quality of dealer support remains crucial to customer satisfaction.
Haykal explained that Mikano Motors operates as a full-service automotive partner, providing warranty coverage, spare parts availability and dedicated customer support nationwide.
According to her, Changan customers enjoy up to six years or 200,000 kilometres warranty coverage, backed by an extensive after-sales network across the country.
To make vehicle ownership easier, Mikano Motors recently partnered with Autochek Africa to offer flexible vehicle financing solutions. The partnership also supports the company’s e-dealership platform, allowing customers to browse and purchase vehicles online from anywhere in Nigeria.
Haykal also highlighted Changan’s global credentials, noting that the brand benefits from international design expertise and advanced engineering technologies.
She advised Nigerian buyers against purchasing vehicles imported without proper local support, warning that many of such vehicles lack warranty coverage, spare parts availability and compatibility with local operating conditions.
To provide affordable alternatives, Mikano Motors has introduced a structured buy-back programme under which used vehicles are refurbished and resold as certified pre-owned units, giving customers access to quality vehicles at lower prices.
She added that vehicles supplied by Mikano Motors are specially adapted for Nigerian conditions, with engines calibrated for local fuel quality and suspension systems designed to withstand challenging road environments.
With showrooms in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt, as well as a growing digital sales platform, Mikano Motors says it remains focused on expanding access to quality mobility solutions across Nigeria.
Haykal stressed that the future of the automotive business goes beyond selling vehicles and rests on building trust, transparency and long-term value for customers.
“It is not just about selling cars,” she said. “It is about delivering trust, integrity and a seamless ownership journey for every Nigerian customer. It is about peace of mind for every Changan and Maxus owner in Nigeria.”
