Chinese car brand, BAIC, is preparing to introduce a new SUV in South Africa in November 2022 and it’s called the Beijing X55! Take a look at what the newcomer will offer and how much you can expect to pay!
In October last year, BAIC welcomed its rugged B40 Plus SUV to the local market and while it might appeal to offroad enthusiasts, the firm lacks a more sophisticated and suave SUV option for buyers to consider. However, that’s all about to change as BAIC prepares to unleash its new Beijing X55 SUV on local soil!
Just look at it, not too bad, right?
The Beijing X55 is built on the firm’s BMFA platform (Beijing Modular Functional Architecture) and is powered by a promising (on paper that is) 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with 130 kW and 305 Nm on offer and paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. BAIC claims average fuel consumption at 7.2 L/100km. Zero to 100kph is claimed at 7.8 seconds. A total of 4 driving modes will be available for the Beijing X55 including Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart.
As far as notable exterior features are concerned, the BeijingX55 is equipped with hidden door handles (much like the Range Rover Velar) that pop out of the bodywork, hidden windscreen wipers, a split rear wing and a split tailgate. Inside, the Beijing X55 is equipped with ‘space-turbo’ interior with engine-style air vents, an aircraft-style steering wheel, 3D ambient lighting, a digital instrument cluster and a CarbitLink infotainment system.
Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, emergency brake assist, electronic stability control, hill hold control, hill descent control, fatigue warning, tyre pressure monitoring as well as front and rear parking sensors.
In terms of size, the Beijing X55 is slightly bigger in all directions than its key Chinese rival, the Haval Jolion! It stands 4 620 mm long, 1 886 mm wide, 1 680 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2 735 which gives it a spacious cabin for passengers and/or carrying luggage. Its pricing (see below) is competitively priced against the Haval Jolion and in terms of size, buyers are essentially getting a family-sized vehicle for the price of a high-end compact crossover.
We look forward to testing the BAIC Beijing X55 soon!
How much does the BAIC Beijing X55 cost in South Africa?
Beijing X55 1.5T Dynamic – R394 900
Beijing X55 1.5T Elite – R424 900
Beijing X55 1.5T Premium – R454 900
