By Malusi Msomi

The South African bakkie market is one of the toughest segments to crack, with buyers spoiled for choice across virtually every price point. Changan is hoping to change that with the Hunter 2.0TD Double Cab CS, a budget-focused offering aimed at buyers looking for a practical workhorse without stretching the bank account too far.

We recently spent some time behind the wheel of the manual 4×2 derivative to see what it brings to the table.

The looks

There’s no denying that the Hunter looks familiar. Its overall shape bears a strong resemblance to the Peugeot Landtrek, giving it a clean and straightforward appearance.

Up front, a bold grille helps give the bakkie some presence, while the 17-inch wheels and upright proportions ensure it looks every bit the part of a modern double cab. It won’t have people stopping traffic for selfies, but it certainly doesn’t look out of place among more established rivals.

The cabin

Inside, the Hunter follows a similarly straightforward approach. The cabin focuses on practicality, with durable materials, a simple dashboard layout, physical controls, and a 10-inch infotainment screen. Everything is easy enough to understand, which is something many buyers will appreciate.

However, one omission stands out: smartphone integration. In 2026, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feels like a significant oversight, especially when many competitors offer both as standard.

Other than that, the cabin covers the basics well enough, even if premium touches are few and far between.

Engine and driving impressions

Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine producing 110kW and 350Nm, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.

Out on the road, the engine provides enough pulling power for everyday driving duties and feels well suited to its intended role as a workhorse. Fuel efficiency is also commendable. During our time with the vehicle, we managed to match Changan’s claimed consumption figure of 7.8L/100km.

The biggest learning curve comes from the clutch, which can be a little tricky when pulling away and takes some getting used to. Once you’ve adapted, however, it becomes less of an issue.

We also found the steering light and easy to manage around town, helping make the Hunter feel less intimidating than its size might suggest.

The 4×2 configuration does have its limitations, particularly when venturing off the beaten path. The absence of a rear differential lock puts it at a disadvantage compared to some rivals when traction becomes scarce.

Verdict

The Changan Hunter 2.0TD Double Cab CS is a straightforward bakkie that focuses on affordability, practicality, and efficiency rather than trying to reinvent the segment.

Its strengths include decent fuel economy, adequate performance, and a simple cabin that’s easy to live with. However, the lack of smartphone integration, the learning curve associated with the clutch, and strong competition from more established brands mean it faces an uphill battle.

Brand familiarity may also be a hurdle for some buyers. In a segment where reputation carries significant weight, Changan still has work to do to convince South Africans to take a chance on something new.

Pricing for the Changan Hunter 2.0TD Double Cab CS starts at R449,900.