The launch of the new BAIC marque in New Zealand is based around two nerw SUVs: the B30 and X55.

Simon Rutherford, CEO of Auto Distribution Holdings Limited, says this week’s announcement of pricing for both models includes a special launch deal offers buyers a $3,000 price reduction on vehicles bought by June 1.

“This means the price of the new X55 will be $34,990 with the B30 range starting at $39,990.  These are unbelievable price points for specification rich and supremely comfortable, confident and capable new models which will be right at home in New Zealand.”

BAIC has almost 70-years of engineering experience, is established in more than 90 countries around the world and has enjoyed recent award-winning success in righthand drive markets such as South Africa, Indonesia and Malaysia.

“Now it's our turn to experience the quality and prowess of these acclaimed, accessible and competitively positioned SUVs.”

Founded in 1958, Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd is a Chinese state-owned automobile manufacturer headquartered in Shunyi, Beijing. Unfamiliar outside China for most of the past fifty years, it is the sixth largest automobile manufacturer in China, with 1.723 million sales in 2021.

Key vehicle features: B30

The B30 is available in three variants - Elite Adventure, Premium Adventure HEV and Premium Adventure HEV All-Wheel Drive - and is the smart alternative when it comes to venturing off the beaten track.

It features a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with the additional option of a Hybrid EV powertrain available in 2WD and AWD. The Hybrid powertrain boosts power to 301kw and 685nm of torque.

Its chunky, off-road orientated appearance provides a visual indicator to its all-wheel drive prowess and a pointer towards its ‘happy place.’

“It is an adventure SUV which is most at home when out and about exploring yet provides its occupants with the peace of mind knowing they haven’t compromised between comfort, safety and capability,” said Mr Rutherford.

“Nothing at this price point comes close to matching its credentials, it’s a bone-fide off-roader with 215mm ground clearance, 600mm wading depth, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, a 25° approach and 30° departure angle as well as Mud, Sand and Wading drive modes.

Key vehicle features: X55

The X55 mid-size SUV features “a captivating design complemented by a luxurious interior and a lighting signature which creates the ultimate urban chic statement.”

Features such as ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, 360-degree camera and power tailgate are all available as standard.

The X55 is powered by a .5-litre turbo petrol engine (138kW/ 305Nm) and features a 10.1-inch Central control screen and 10.25-inch LCD instrument screen, Wireless phone connection and a full black interior and is available in a choice of six exterior colours.  The overall look is completed by LED headlights, daytime running lights and taillights and sporty twin tailpipe exhausts.

“At $34,990, the X55 overdelivers in terms of performance and premium features,” said Mr Rutherford. It offers features and capabilities expected of a larger SUV for small-SUV money.”

Safety

Both X55 and B30 feature six airbags, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including Blind Spot Detection, Intelligent Cruise Assist, Lane Departure Warning (X55) or Lane Keep Assist (B30), Autonomous Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning.