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By Moses Akaigwe
When in 2021 Changan Auto dazzled the global auto industry with the launch of its UNI-K, it was obvious that the new class-beating midsize SUV immensely benefited from the manufacturer’s wealth of expertise and experience as the oldest automaker in China (since 1862).
Changan’s enduring reputation of building cars with modern design and advanced technology was also evident in the new UNI-K, which, subsequently, had a very easy drive into various markets across the globe, including Nigeria, where Mikano Motors launched it a couple of years later.
It was, therefore, predictable that, as in other markets around the world, Changan UNI-K has been making waves in Nigeria’s luxury SUV segment, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and new buyers alike.
This wasn’t much of a surprise more so because UNI-K flaunted (and still boasts) an impressive turbocharged 2.0 litre engine, a spacious five-seat interior, and a high-tech cabin with large screens.
All these and the factors outlined hereunder have been interplaying to make the UNI-K tick.
Alluring aesthetic design
One of Changan UNI-K’s most appreciated unique selling points is its design qualities. Generally, Changan has gained recognition for its modern and stylish designs, earning accolades like the Red Dot Design Award, among others.
The automaker is also highly reputed for producing robust and well-performing vehicles with good features, and the UNI-K perfectly reflects this.
The UNI-K appeals to car lovers who appreciate its magnificent and futuristic design, which features a large, borderless grille, sleek and aerodynamic lines, and unique “wing trident” daytime running lights.
Also contributing to UNI-K’s high rating in aesthetics are notable design elements like a full-width rear light bar, hidden door handles, a sporty rear spoiler, and a quad exhaust system that contribute to its powerful and modern look.
Interior design
Auto enthusiasts agree that the interior ambience is the second most powerful element that reveals the quality of any car of high value.
Hop into the UNI-K, and you will discover how true this is. What stands out is the luxurious and tech-filled cabin that flaunts high-quality materials, a panoramic sunroof, and a dual-screen setup featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital driver display.
Also defining the cosy interior are the ergonomic, (nappa) leather-upholstered seats that are designed for comfort, with features like power adjustment, heating, cooling, and massage for the front seats.
Technology
A recent press release by Mikano Motors on the Uni-K shows that its Integrated Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC with Stop-and-Go function) enables intuitive urban driving . The function equips the vehicle with advanced sensory abilities, making it automatically slow down and stop in reactions to vehicles around it .
In addition to helping maintain the speed it is set at, It has rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assistance, and foot sensors.
Changan UNI-K is also equipped with other advanced tech, including smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a range of safety and driver-assistance features.
Elevating the SUV a notch above its peers is an AI-powered infotainment system with large digital screens, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility.
Turbocharged powerplant
UNI-K is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers around 233 horsepower that works in tandem with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
And, there is another side to the cheery news. Mikano Motors confirmed recently that the lovers of the SUV in Nigeria (where the pump price of petrol keeps is a sensitive issue) have discovered that while UNI-K is very frugal in fuel consumption, it delivers more than its fair share of power and performance.
Safety
It is not for nothing that the UNI-K is usually described as a luxury SUV in which Changan has demonstrated mastery in the deployment of sophisticated electronics, sensors, and software to improve safety, convenience, and connectivity.
For instance, the car boasts salient safety features, including an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), a 360-degree camera system, and passive safety measures like eight airbags and a high-strength steel body.
The list of active safety features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Awards, recognitions
Since its premier in 2021, UNI-K has won a good number of awards and recognitions in various markets.
The list includes Best Medium SUV coupe awarded in 2022 by the PR Arabia National Auto Award to the Coupe version; Feature-Rich SUV of the Year received at the TAS Business Awards 2024; Smart Mobility Innovation Award won at the OERLive DX Oman 2025; and Extreme Award Winner for the hybrid version in 2021 from Chongqing Design for its futuristic design and technology integration.
In 2021, a JD Power study on New Vehicle Initial Quality (IQS), revealed Changan as the number 1 in New Vehicle quality across all Chinese brands.
Changan also ranked 7th amongst mainstream JV Global brands, including luxury brands.
Mikano Motors assurance
One of the highpoints of the launch of UNI-K in 2023 was that Mikano Motors committed to making the ownership of the SUV and all vehicles in the Changan long lineup a pleasurable experience for customers.
Not a few of the high profile guests, including celebrities,at the Changan’s award-winning showroom in Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island in Lagos, applauded the Mikano Motors management when they assured of a comprehensive aftersales back-up for the UNI Series and all Changan vehicles.
“At Mikano Motors, all Changan vehicles come with a best- in- continent six-year/ 200,000km warranty. Boasting the most diverse range in our lineup, and catering to every taste and requirement, the Changan brand is quickly becoming one of the leading auto brands in Nigeria.”
The opulent and luxurious UNI series, a premium tier sub-brand, is under the Changan marque.
Apart from the flagship UNI-K, there is the smaller, but no less impressive UNI- T, also with a vast array of modern features, such as remote driving, as well as the UNI-V sedan with a futuristic design and equally futuristic features.
