Changan to grow share in compact market with Yida

Chinese carmaker Changan started presales of Yida on Monday as part of its efforts to seize a larger share in the competitive compact family sedan market.

Changan said it will launch the sporty model, available in three variants, in March.

Yida measures 4,770 mm in length, 1,840 in width and 1,440 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm.

For a comparison, it is 2 mm longer and 36 mm wider than Volkswagen's popular Lavida sedan. Its wheelbase is 77 mm longer than Lavida as well, ensuring more room for both drivers and passengers.

Lavida, produced by SAIC Volkswagen, was the best-selling compact sedan in China in January, according to statistics from the China Passenger Car Association.

In terms of performance, Yida features an NT 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a seven-speed transmission, generating a top torque of 260 Nm.

The model has a minimalistic interior. Besides a sporty steering wheel, it has a huge 13.2-inch display and a 10.25-inch panel. Yida also has Level 2 driving-assist features as well as a parking radar sensor system and a 360-degree camera system.

China's compact sedan market is dominated by international brands. Besides Lavida, Volkswagen's Bora and Sagitar as well as Toyota's Levin and Corolla are popular choices as well.

Of the top 10 sedans in January, only two bore Chinese marques, with one of them being Changan's UNI-V, according to the CPCA.