Changan Alsvin First Drive: Redefining the Sedan Segment

Changan Alsvin is the newest sedan in town.

Changan Automobile, in association with MAW Vriddhi, has made its official entry with its first premium offering.

However, there is an interesting catch: it is a sedan.

As of late, the Nepali auto market continues to be an SUV-dominated market. Then, why would a new brand launch a sedan? Well, this is what we are trying to figure out!

Changan Alsvin is a premium sedan making its first-ever appearance in the Nepali market.

As for the pricing, the Changan Alsvin price in Nepal is set at Rs. 42 Lakhs.

Fortunately enough, we had a chance to take it for a spin! While we are still busy with the review, here is our Changan Alsvin first drive experience.

Changan Alsvin First Drive

Premium Design

Changan Alsvin is set to redefine luxury.

While the competition is occupied with a compact sedan, Alsvin presents a different proposition.

It ditches the compact aesthetics for a more symmetrical styling. The bonafide creases and sharp lines align with its contemporary theme.

The front section comes with a sporty Dual Beam Projector headlamp with sleek LED DRLs. Interestingly enough, these are yellow-colored headlamps.

Similarly, the large front grille (also called “butterfly grille”) is inspired by Lexus. Plus, the chrome finish helps elevate the look.

Unlike the front section, the side profile is kept simple.

Nevertheless, Changan has opted for subtle crease lines here and there. Overall, it sports a simple yet streamlined aesthetics.

There is a chrome finish at the border of the windows. Moreover, the 15-inch alloy wheels look pretty sweet.

Similarly, the rear section comes with a typical sedan-like rear profile.

Like the grille, the rear halogen lamps seem inspired by Lexus vehicles. Nonetheless, the large rear lights help leave a unique impression.

The interior continues the premium trend.

It includes a flat-bottomed steering wheel, spacious cabin, and futuristic infotainment system.

Most of the interior is made out of high-quality plastic. Furthermore, the stitched-finish are almost everywhere.

Additionally, Changan Alsvin is available in three different colors: White and Blue.

We will explore these elements further in our Full Review.

Blue Core Performance

Changan Alsvin is powered by a 1.4L in-line 4-Cylinder, DOHC Blue Core Petrol Engine. It can generate a max power of 100.61PS and a max torque of 135Nm. Moreover, it is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with a 40-liter fuel tank capacity.

Alsvin claims an energy-efficient engine that reduces exhaust emissions and improves fuel consumption effectively.

Fuel efficiency and performance never go hand in hand. So, we will be sure to test this out too.

Features

We will talk about these features in detail in our Full Review. Until then, here are quick feature highlights in the new Changan Alsvin.

Changan Alsvin Features Highlight

• Contemporary Sedan Styling
• 1.4L Petrol Engine
• Unique Butterfly Grille
• Dual Beam Projector Headlamp with LED DRLs
• Sporty Flat Bottom Steering (with Mounted Controls)
• Premium Leatherette Seats
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• HVAC with Digital Display
• 7-inch Touch Infotainment System
• 15-inch Alloy Wheels
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Rear View Camera with Dynamic Lines

First Drive Experience

So far, we have only spent an hour or so with the Changan.

Even with our short experience with the vehicle, it has raised expectations. While we haven’t driven it yet, the experience looks promising.

Both the interior and exterior have their charm. Can it continue that charm in the real world?

During the brief test driving period, the sedan feels largely focused on luxury. The included features and elements largely focus on a premium feel.

But is it enough?

Don’t worry, we will find that out soon enough.

More importantly, I am far more interested to talk about its reliability and aftersales service.

Let’s not forget, this is still a new brand in a heavily competitive market.

Changan Alsvin will compete against Proton Saga and Honda City.

Also, don’t forget to watch our Proton Saga Review!