Shangjie, the joint venture between Huawei and Changan, is preparing to launch its second model, the Z7T, a mid-to-large shooting brake that aims to blend the styling of a coupe with the practicality of a wagon. A recent space-focused review by Chinese automotive outlet Autohome provides a detailed look at how the Z7T balances passenger comfort, storage, and family usability.
Passenger Space and Comfort
According to Autohome, the Z7T offers a spacious front cabin. A 179 cm (5'10") tester found that even with the driver's seat at its lowest setting, the seating position felt slightly high, though headroom remained adequate. The car's panoramic glass roof, which lacks a traditional sunshade, helps preserve headroom but may let in more light and heat.
The front seats are one-piece designs with medium-firm padding, providing good lateral support during cornering. However, the cushion width is somewhat narrow, which could feel snug for larger drivers. Standard comfort features include heating, ventilation, and massage for both front seats, while the passenger seat adds a zero-gravity mode with a leg rest—useful during charging stops or long breaks.
In the second row, the Z7T's 3,000 mm (118.1 in) wheelbase ensures generous legroom, even with the front seats adjusted for a tall driver. However, the fastback roofline cuts into headroom, and passengers close to 180 cm (5'11") may feel slightly cramped, though not enough to touch the ceiling. The rear seatbacks offer manual adjustment, but with limited range, and the battery placement raises the floor, reducing thigh support for taller passengers. Rear passengers do get standard heated and ventilated seats, a thoughtful touch for a family-oriented car.
Storage and Trunk Versatility
The Z7T provides a wealth of small-item storage, including door bins, center console cup holders, and a lower console tray. However, these compartments are wider than they are deep, so large water bottles or oversized coffee cups may not sit securely. The front trunk, which opens via a double-tap gesture and includes an electric suction close, is roomy in length and width but too shallow for a 20-inch carry-on suitcase—better suited for backpacks, charging cables, or camera gear.
The main trunk is the Z7T's standout feature, thanks to the shooting brake's large opening and flexible space. With the rear seats in use, it can hold three suitcases with room left for backpacks or loose items. The trunk also includes a 220V power outlet and a detachable flashlight on each side, handy for camping or roadside emergencies. Under the floor, there's a hidden compartment that fits a 20-inch suitcase, ideal for tools, charging cables, or rarely used items.
For families with young children, Autohome found that installing a child safety seat is straightforward. The ISOFIX anchors are easy to locate, and once installed, the seat doesn't intrude on front-seat legroom, allowing a 179 cm driver to maintain a comfortable position. The rear doors don't open particularly wide, but that didn't hinder the installation process.
Overall, the Shangjie Z7T delivers the space and versatility expected of a mid-to-large shooting brake. While there are minor compromises—such as reduced rear headroom and a high floor—the car excels in trunk capacity and family-friendly features. With its combination of comfort, storage, and practicality, the Z7T could appeal to buyers seeking an electric alternative to traditional wagons, especially those who value the tech and brand backing of Huawei and Changan.
