2004 ChangAn CM8 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the ChangAn CM8 minivan is 1130 kg (approximately 2491 lbs), which is the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo but with standard equipment and a full fuel tank. The maximum weight or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is 1641 kg (around 3617 lbs), representing the maximum allowable weight including passengers, cargo, and fuel. This indicates the CM8’s capacity to safely carry around 511 kg (1127 lbs) of additional load, balancing efficiency with practical utility for everyday family or commercial use.

With a width of 1568 mm (61.7 inches), the ChangAn CM8 is on the narrower side compared to larger minivans or SUVs. However, this narrower width allows for better city driving and easier parking. While it may not offer the expansive shoulder room seen in larger vehicles, the design optimizes available space for interior comfort. The vehicle's height and boxy minivan shape compensate somewhat by providing generous vertical space, which helps in creating a comfortable cabin environment for passengers and cargo.

The ChangAn CM8 stands tall at 1898 mm (74.7 inches), which is relatively high for a vehicle of its size. This increased height results in enhanced headroom for passengers, making the interior feel more spacious and reducing the feeling of confinement commonly found in lower-profile vehicles. The height also facilitates easier entry and exit, especially for elderly passengers or those with mobility concerns. Additionally, the minivan's tall stature provides practical benefits such as better visibility for the driver and the potential for more flexible cargo arrangements within the cabin.

The ChangAn CM8 minivan, with a length of 3856 mm (151.8 inches), width of 1568 mm (61.7 inches), and height of 1898 mm (74.7 inches), is generally suitable for a standard residential garage. Most standard single-car garages have a width of about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (7.9 to 8.9 feet) and lengths of approximately 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet), so the CM8’s dimensions allow it to fit comfortably with room for opening doors and maneuvering. Its relatively compact length and moderate width make it easier to park than many larger minivans or SUVs, though the taller height should be checked against garage door clearance to ensure there are no issues.

The ChangAn CM8 generation starting from 2004 does not have a widely known predecessor directly comparable in size and market positioning, as it was introduced as a distinct compact minivan option in ChangAn’s lineup. Compared to earlier ChangAn microvans or smaller MPVs, the CM8 offered a more standardized minivan height and a modest increase in interior volume despite its compact footprint. This generation focused on balancing urban usability with family-friendly space, a step up from purely utility-oriented predecessors, making it a more versatile vehicle for various passenger and cargo configurations.

When compared to similar compact minivans from other manufacturers, the ChangAn CM8 is notably smaller in length and width, emphasizing maneuverability in densely populated urban areas. For instance, many Japanese and Korean compact minivans like the Suzuki Every or Hyundai Starex tend to be longer and wider, offering more cabin space but sacrificing some ease of parking and city driving convenience. The CM8's height is competitive, providing good headroom and vertical storage options, making it a viable option for buyers needing a compact yet practical minivan especially in markets favoring smaller vehicles.

The ChangAn CM8 is designed to comfortably seat between 5 to 7 passengers depending on the configuration. Its compact size and tall structure allow for flexible interior arrangements, including two or three rows of seating. The vertical space enhances passenger comfort despite the smaller footprint, ensuring adequate headroom and less cramped conditions in the rear seats compared to other similarly sized vehicles. This makes it suitable for small families or groups needing practical transport with sufficient seating within a compact external size.

The ChangAn CM8’s compact dimensions—3856 mm length and 1568 mm width—make it exceptionally well-suited for urban environments. The smaller footprint helps navigate tight streets and reduces the difficulty of parking in limited spaces typical of city living. Despite its small external size, its tall design maximizes interior space, balancing practicality with ease of use. This makes the CM8 a convenient vehicle for city dwellers who need a versatile minivan capable of handling daily commutes, shopping trips, and family outings without the hassle of managing a larger vehicle in constrained areas.

The curb weight of 1130 kg (2491 lbs) is relatively light for a minivan, which positively impacts the ChangAn CM8’s fuel efficiency and maneuverability. A lighter vehicle mass typically requires less power to accelerate and maintain speed, contributing to potentially lower fuel consumption: a key consideration for budget-conscious drivers. Additionally, lighter weight improves handling and braking responsiveness, making the vehicle safer and easier to drive in stop-and-go urban traffic. Overall, the CM8 strikes a balance between carrying capacity and weight to enhance operational efficiency and driving dynamics.