Chang’an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

The Versatile Triple-Threat Solution

The heart of any new energy vehicle lies in its powertrain, and the UNI-Z’s New Blue Whale Plug-in Hybrid System represents a breakthrough in Chinese hybrid technology. This innovative architecture combines a 1.5L HE dedicated hybrid engine with P1+P3 dual motors in a compact 3-axis, 6-gear layout that maximizes space efficiency .

The engine delivers 72kW maximum power, while the electric motor generates a robust 158kW (approx. 215hp) and 330N·m peak torque . These figures translate to tangible driving experiences — the 7.4-second 0-100km/h acceleration provides electric-like responsiveness in urban settings, while ample power reserves ensure confident highway overtaking.

The UNI-Z’s true innovation is its “Three-in-One” driving flexibility:

Pure EV Mode: Powered by Chang’an’s self-developed 18.4kWh Golden Bell Battery, it offers 125km CLTC range5. Real-world testing yielded even more impressive results, with journalists achieving 179.8km in city conditions — a 143.8% range realization rate7. For a 30km daily commute, this means weekly driving on electricity alone at just 0.05 yuan/km .

Range Extender Mode: The engine acts as a “power bank,” generating electricity exclusively. With a WLTC fuel consumption of 5.15L/100km at low charge (tested as low as 4.8L/100km) , this mode excels in city traffic. NVH control is exceptional, rendering the engine nearly imperceptible.

Hybrid Mode: Intelligent coordination between engine and motor optimizes efficiency. During a 1,600km endurance test, the UNI-Z effortlessly reached 180km/h with three adults aboard, dispelling concerns about hybrid performance at speed .

The ultimate solution to range anxiety is its 1,200km comprehensive endurance8. One owner documented a real-world example: After 300km of driving, the display showed 880km (fuel) + 77km (electric) remaining — approximately 77% range realization . This means traveling from Beijing to Shanghai without refueling or recharging, eliminating charging queues during weekend getaways.

Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

The Family-Centric Space Wizard

The UNI-Z evolves Chang’an’s UNI series “Interconnected Design Language” with family-focused enhancements . The boundary-free grille integrates seamlessly with the 94-LED Skyline Light System, producing a dazzling 3,200-lumen output that pierces 600 meters through rain and fog . The retractable spoiler isn’t just sporty — working with the 0.329Cd ultra-low drag coefficient body, it reduces wind noise by 5% and fuel consumption by 0.3L/100km .

The optional Dark Knight Package adds personality — 20-inch blackened wheels resemble mech armor, accented by red brake calipers. One young parent noted: “After installing this, I always get admiring glances when picking up my child from kindergarten” .

Inside, the 270-degree wraparound cockpit delivers quality beyond its price segment . The dashboard features 11.5㎡ of soft-touch materials, surpassing standards in 150,000 yuan-class joint-venture models . The battleship-inspired ambient lighting shifts colors with music, while Cloud-Touch zero-pressure seats use 3Dmesh healthy materials, measuring 5℃ cooler than leather surfaces in summer tests .

Space is the UNI-Z’s ultimate family conquest. Its 2,795mm wheelbase exceeds the BYD Song Plus DM-i by 30mm . Practical experience shows a 1.78m occupant enjoying over two fist-widths of rear knee room, while the flat floor eliminates the dreaded “middle seat straddle” .

The trunk offers 638L of regular capacity, easily accommodating three 28-inch plus one 20-inch suitcases . Fold the rear seats flat for 1,425L of near-level “mobile bedroom” space. A pet blogger praised: “The flat floor and 28-degree reclining seats keep my Golden Retriever comfortable without motion sickness” .

Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

The “Car Robot” Comes Alive

Chang’an positions the UNI-Z as a “Car Robot,” with intelligence surpassing conventional transportation . Most impressive is the Face ID 3.0 system, configurable for five family members. Recognizing the driver, it automatically adjusts seats, mirrors, preferred climate settings, and even playlists — no manual input required .

Standard L2 autonomous driving incorporates 11 assist features . Real-world testing confirms the full-speed adaptive cruise significantly reduces driver fatigue in traffic jams, while lane-centering provides train-like stability. Particularly commendable is the AEB emergency braking — one owner shared: “During rainy low-visibility conditions, the system reacted faster than I could, preventing a rear-end collision” .

Novice drivers will appreciate the APA 6.0 Voice-Controlled Parking. Facing a tight space, simply command “Park in that spot” and the vehicle handles steering. Tested success rates reach 98% for angled spaces, outperforming some premium EVs’ 86% . One new female driver marveled: “It parks more precisely than my driving instructor taught me” .

The UNI-Z’s voice interaction system shatters conventional boundaries:

External Voice Control: When arms are full, command “Open trunk” for hands-free access. Passersby often pause to photograph this human-car dialogue .

Dual-Zone Recognition: Driver says “Open my window” — only the left side lowers; a child complains “I’m hot” — rear AC activates independently .

Wireless KTV System: Featuring SONY audio (higher trims) and specialized algorithms, the cabin transforms into a mobile concert hall .

Security is enhanced by Sentry Mode, an invisible guardian. When parked, it monitors surroundings, automatically recording 360° evidence upon impact detection. One owner benefited directly: “When an electric scooter scratched my car, the offender admitted fault immediately with video proof” .

Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

Solving Family Pain Points

The UNI-Z’s differentiation stems from deeply understanding family mobility challenges:

Motion Sickness Mitigation: An A-ECMS algorithm creates an anti-nausea model by controlling acceleration change rates below 5.5m/S³ (the 7m/S³ sickness threshold) . Combined with 360° sound insulation (idling at just 38dB), passenger discomfort is significantly reduced. A frequently carsick passenger reported: “I used to get sick in any EV, but remained fine during two hours of mountain roads” .

Comprehensive NVH Engineering: Double-layer acoustic glass upfront and 30+ sound-dampened areas create library-quiet EV operation. Conversations flow naturally at highway speeds without raised voices .

All-Season Comfort: Southern users praise ventilated seats — proven 5℃ cooler than leather in summer . Northern winters benefit from heated steering wheels delivering warmth in seconds. Eco-leather seats with orthopedic padding reduce back fatigue by 40% on long drives .

Ownership Economy: Compatible with 92-octane fuel, maintenance costs approximate 500 yuan per service — 30% less than gasoline vehicles . First owners receive lifetime battery/motor/electronics warranty + free basic data, ensuring long-term peace of mind .

Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market
Chang'an UNI-Z In-depth Review: The All-Rounder Family SUV Redefining Value in the Hybrid Market

Conclusion: The New Benchmark for Family Hybrid SUVs

The Chang’an UNI-Z succeeds not through spec-sheet domination but by applying “Car Robot” logic to transform contradictory family demands into “comprehensive superpowers” . Its 2,795mm wheelbase eliminates space anxiety; dual PHEV/EREV modes solve range dilemmas; L2 driving aids + voice parking reduce driver stress; and the 86,900 yuan starting price demolishes value barriers.

In today’s hyper-competitive hybrid SUV market, the UNI-Z demonstrates Chinese brands’ innovative wisdom: Instead of blindly chasing specifications, it solves real-world scenarios. The anti-motion sickness algorithm protects children’s comfort, external voice control frees mothers’ hands, and dual powertrains enable fathers’ adventure dreams. As one owner summarized: “It’s not transportation but a life solution — saving money for children’s education with weekday EV commutes while enabling weekend family adventures with extended range” .

Those seeking extreme performance or luxury may find pricier alternatives. But for mainstream families with 100,000-150,000 yuan budgets, the Chang’an UNI-Z establishes a new all-round value benchmark — proving with “I want it all” confidence that compromise isn’t necessary for family vehicles .