As relative newcomers to the South African market, Changan is looking to capture the entrylevel segment of the LCV sector with its affordable and reasonably well-appointed Star 2 range of pick-ups and double-cabs.

The Star 2’s unique-selling-point is that it is able to accommodate as much cargo as its closest competitors – yet it costs a fraction of the price. Moreover, while Chinese manufacturers continue to make strides in the local market in both the LCV and passenger car market, there’s no doubt that the product that’s been coming to South Africa from China over the recent years have hugely improved in terms of fit, finish and perceived quality.

This means that the Star 2 remains in an enviable position as being one of the cheapest LCVs on sale in SA, as well as one of the most practical if one has to delve deeper into its capacities and dimensions. The vehicle is powered by a oneor 1,3-litre petrol engine that’s mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, and Changan claims that the Star 2 singlecab pick-up is able to carry its driver and passenger in relative comfort and without breaking a sweat thanks to its tailored gearing and manoeuvrability.

Remember though that it is quite compact all round, measuring in at 3 880mm in length, 1 485mm in height and 1 485mm in width. It does, however, offer a decent amount of ground clearance at 165mm, which is ideal if you plan on using it on corrugated roads or on a farm.

While it doesn’t have much in the line of standard specification to rival some of the more popular compact pick-ups on the market, the Star 2 remains sharply priced at just under R70 000 from your local Changan dealer and prices include a one-year mechanical warranty.