Deciding on a first car can be tough. There are many things to consider, from price, features, reliability, and more—it can be challenging to find a vehicle that has it all.
That said, finding a beginner car that ticks all the right boxes isn't impossible. Take the Changan Alsvin. It's a newer contender in the small subcompact sedan segment, but it packs a punch with its sleek design and modern features. In the right hands, the Alsvin would make a great first car, and here are all the reasons why.
A frugal yet capable engine
First cars need to be capable enough but not too powerful to send the driver flying through the streets. That's the case with the Changan Alsvin. You have two engines to choose from: a 1.4-liter or 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline mill.
The smaller motor makes 99 hp and 135 Nm of torque while pairing with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Meanwhile, the 1.5-liter option delivers 106 hp and 145 Nm of torque while connecting to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
Both options can be perfect for a first car. The manual variant gives a new driver a decent platform to learn the clutch, while the DCT model provides an option between automatic and manual modes.
The Alsvin is also an economical choice due to its stellar fuel efficiency figures. During official tests, Changan's sedan posted 9.3 km/l in the city and 22 km/l on the highway. These figures are right up there with the best in the subcompact sedan segment.
A stylish exterior
The Changan Alsvin is built with today's design sensibilities in mind. Its front fascia is striking, as evidenced by the Butterfly Wing grille that gives the sedan a unique look. While the lighting setup is mostly halogen, you get projector headlamps that offer good visibility in the dark. There are also LED daytime running lights (DRLs) on the Platinum variant. When you're driving the Alsvin, it's sure to turn heads wherever you go.
A feature-rich interior
Today's car buyers look for much more than the surface. A great-looking cabin is on the list for many of these discerning customers. That's why the Alsvin has premium leather seats on the range-topping Platinum model. It also features a sunroof for enjoying long drives on extended road trips. More than that, the 7-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system gives comfort and convenience. The system gets features like an AM/FM Radio and Bluetooth connectivity. The Alsvin is as competent on the inside as it is head-turning on the outside.
A pocket-friendly price point
Price is a concern for most first-time car buyers. They want a vehicle that doesn't break the bank yet doesn't skimp on features. The Changan Alsvin could fit this bill, as it starts at a relatively affordable P629,000 for the 1.4 MT model. The mid-range 1.5 DCT is available for P689,000, while the top-spec 1.5 DCT Platinum can be yours for P739,000. Considering everything you're getting, from the design, engine, and features, that's a hell of a deal.
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