A Kazakh car reseller posed a difficult dilemma to Threads users: what to choose for the same money – a new Changan CS55 Plus or a 17-year-old Audi Q7. The discussion showed how much the attitude of Kazakh motorists towards Chinese cars has changed. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The author compared two listings on a popular platform. A 2026 Changan CS55 Plus is sold for 8.9 million tenge, while a 2009 Audi Q7 with 280,000 km mileage costs 9 million tenge. Despite many Kazakhs' love for German premium, most commenters advised choosing the new Chinese crossover. The main argument is predictability of operation.
"Changan, of course! Get in and drive, everything works. On this old lady, God willing, you'll drive a week without repairs."
"Even with my dislike for the Chinese auto industry, I'd rather take it. The old 'German' can spring a surprise at the most inopportune moment."
Interestingly, the most cautious were Audi Q7 owners themselves. One said it was the best car of his life, but today he would still choose a showroom Changan.
"Yes, Audi is more comfortable, faster, and nicer. But now I'd take Changan and just drive – cheaper, more stable, and predictable."
Others reminded about expensive repairs of the gearbox, suspension, and engine, as well as the difficulty of finding a truly 'live' specimen.
However, Audi defenders also appeared. In their opinion, a well-maintained Q7 can still deliver emotions, comfort, and handling that are hard to expect from a budget Chinese crossover.
A few years ago, such a comparison would have ended with the German crossover's victory. But now many Kazakhs are ready to give up status and driving qualities in favor of warranty, no major investments, and trouble-free operation.
As a result, most participants agreed: if you need a car for daily use, a new Changan looks like a more reasonable purchase than a nearly 20-year-old Audi Q7.
Earlier, Kazakhs argued on Threads about the best crossover under 8 million tenge. Also, Kursiv Avto reported why new cars in Kazakhstan continue to get cheaper, while used ones do not.