Introduction: A Memorable Debut
When the Changan SL S7 was unveiled at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show, it made a lasting impression with its sleek design and superior comfort. Notably, its large battery and range-extending capabilities piqued my interest. After a year on the market, I finally had the opportunity to experience the SL S7 first-hand. A road trip from Beijing to Jinan, spanning nearly 1000 kilometers, was the perfect setting to satisfy my curiosity and rigorously test the vehicle’s endurance and capabilities.
Sophisticated Design and Comfort Orientation
Despite its sporty exterior, the Changan SL S7 has fundamentally designed for comfort, making it an ideal choice for families. This SUV cleverly combines a visually dynamic exterior with an interior focused on passenger comfort, aligning perfectly with the domestic market’s preferences for aesthetically pleasing yet practical vehicles.
Engineered Chassis and Suspension
The vehicle employs a conventional suspension setup with MacPherson struts upfront and a multi-link system at the rear. While it lacks high-cost adaptive technologies like CDC or air suspension, it offers a commendable balance between cost and performance. On highways, the SL S7’s underpinnings shine, delivering smooth and stable handling that filters out road imperfections and minimizes cabin disturbance, ideal for relaxed cruising.
On challenging terrains and during aggressive maneuvers, however, the SL S7 may exhibit some body roll and lateral movement, particularly at high speeds on curves or when transitioning over uneven bridge approaches. This behavior highlights the vehicle’s prioritization of comfort over sporty handling and suggests a more conservative driving approach under such conditions.
Steering and NVH: Mastery of Silence and Precision
The steering system of the SL S7 has engineered to be light and precise, offering an effortless driving experience that doesn’t tire the driver. Responsive and agile, the steering makes navigating tight urban spaces a breeze. For highway travel, the system adjusts to provide a heavier feel, enhancing stability and safety during high-speed lane changes.
The SUV’s NVH levels are exemplary. Despite its frameless doors, interior quietness has maintained through advanced double-glazing and strategic aerodynamic design. This ensures that even at speeds above 120 km/h, wind noise is kept to a minimum, contributing to a tranquil travel environment suitable for long-distance journeys.
Hybrid Performance: Efficiency Meets Power
Under the hood, the SL S7 boasts a sophisticated hybrid system. It combines a sizable battery with a combustion engine for range extension. This setup has optimized for city driving and excels in long-distance scenarios. It provides a balance of power and efficiency. The electric motor delivers immediate torque and operates quietly. The gasoline engine activates as needed to maintain the battery’s charge on longer trips. This reduces the need for frequent stops to recharge.
Comprehensive Review: Proven Capabilities
Throughout the extensive test drive from Beijing to Jinan, the Changan SL S7 demonstrated its capabilities as a top-tier family SUV. It adeptly combines the visual appeal of a sports SUV with the functionality and comfort required for family use. Whether cruising along highways or navigating city streets, the SL S7 provided a consistently comfortable and controlled driving experience.
Conclusion: A Prominent Contender in the Hybrid SUV Category
The Changan SL S7 is more than just a good-looking SUV. Its well-rounded performance in terms of comfort, efficiency, and user-friendly features makes it a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market. With its combination of stylish design, advanced technology, and thoughtful engineering, the SL S7 is perfectly poised to meet the needs of modern families looking for a reliable and comfortable vehicle.