Changan Automobile Group, one of China's "Big Four" state-owned automakers, is steadily making its presence felt in Singapore. Models like the Deepal S07, AVATR 11, and AVATR 07 have already arrived, and more are on the way. On a recent visit to Changan's headquarters in Chongqing, I had the chance to experience their proving ground firsthand. From family-friendly SUVs to luxury EVs, here's what stood out from the cars that I could both see and try. 

Try: Nevo Q07

A taxi ride on the high-speed banked loop in the Nevo Q07 revealed just how refined this family-oriented SUV is. Even at 100km/h with four passengers aboard, the experience was quiet and comfortable. The cabin experience also proved rather upmarket for a supposed mass-market model - with leather that feels soft and supple, vibrant interior colours, and responsive ADAS displays. 

As one of the brands under Changan Automobile, Nevo is positioned as a more family-friendly proposition, and targeted at a younger, livelier crowd. The brand is expected to enter Singapore in Q3 this year. 

Try: Deepal S05

The Deepal S05 is already slated for market launch here, and was first previewed at this year's Singapore Motor Show (you can read our first drive impressions here). 

The younger sibling to the Deepal S07 already on Singapore roads, the S05 carries the same design DNA in a smaller, rear-wheel drive BEV package. Around the gymkhana course, it felt nimble and confident - a promising addition for urban drivers.

See: AVATR 12

The flagship AVATR 12 impressed with its devilishly handsome stance and dynamic display of torque control. Dual Huawei-sourced motors powered precise drifts and pivot turns, showcasing cutting-edge engineering. Singapore will soon see this technology in the AVATR 06T shooting brake (slated for later this year), blending elegance with practicality.

Try: Nevo Q05 

Compact yet lively, the Nevo Q05 handled the gymkhana course with ease. Its responsive sensors detected cones and pedestrians flawlessly, making it an ideal choice for newer drivers.

This model will be coming to Singapore later this year. 

See: Changan UNI-V HEV

The UNI is a model series under the Changan brand, with the Uni models positioned for those who live loud and proud. The UNI-V is a sedan that sports quad tailpipes, aggressive splitters, and fluorescent brakes that make it unapologetically flamboyant - perfect for those who want their car to make a statement.

See: Nevo A06

Though positioned as a mainstream sedan, the Nevo A06 flaunts a flashy brake kit and sleek light bar, signaling Nevo's intent to win hearts with style as much as substance.

Try: Deepal L06

With its familiar light setup and shapes across the car's surface, the L06 is immediately recognisable as a member of Deepal's model lineup. 

Lower and sportier than its SUV siblings, the Deepal L06 sedan offers a spirited drive. Its elevated seat height - a common trait of EV sedans with underfloor batteries - doesn't detract from its confident handling.

See: Hunter K50

The Hunter series reimagines pickups as lifestyle vehicles rather than mere workhorses. With styling reminiscent of Ford's Rangers and Raptors, the K50 blends toughness with modern appeal.

Try: Deepal G318

The G318 is a bold BEV off-roader, with an eye-catching combination of size, styling, colours, and lights. It blends striking design with a techy cabin and a smooth ride quality. Its monocoque chassis proved capable on uneven terrain and asymmetrical humps, raising the question: Do electric off-roaders really need ladder frames anymore?

What's next for Singapore

While details are still being worked out, it's clear that Changan's expansion plans are ambitious. The Deepal S05 is expected to launch within weeks, followed by the Nevo Q05 later this year. The AVATR 06T shooting brake is another highlight to watch for - a premium EV that marries AVATR's design flair with everyday practicality. With such diverse offerings across multiple brands, Changan is poised to become a bigger player in Singapore's EV landscape.