Changan Benni I gallery (2006–2013)
The first-generation Changan Benni city hatchback was produced from 2006 to 2013, establishing Changan's entry into the subcompact passenger car segment.
Unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show in 2006, the first-generation Changan Benni (known as the BenBen in China) launched Changan's lineup of compact passenger cars. Styled in collaboration with Italy's I.DE.A Institute, the five-door hatchback featured friendly, rounded exterior contours. The vehicle was engineered on a front-wheel-drive platform with MacPherson front struts and a rear torsion beam axle, featuring a compact 3,525 mm overall length suited for tight city parking. Power was supplied by 1.0-liter (60 hp) and 1.3-liter (86 hp) four-cylinder petrol engines mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The functional cabin offered fabric upholstery, air conditioning, power front windows, and a basic audio head unit. Essential safety equipment on top trims included front airbags and ABS. The first-generation Benni generated strong sales figures across China and was exported to South America and Eastern Europe until 2013.