$3k offer on SUV prices
The launch of BAIC in New Zealand has taken a major step forward with the release of new model pricing, and information about accessories, its dealer network, finance partner and warranties.
The announcements coincide with the official availability of the marque’s new models for ordering and test drives from February 27.
“All new models in the range benefit from a launch offer, which will see a $3,000 reduction applied until June 1,” says Simon Rutherford, chief executive officer of Auto Distribution Holdings Ltd.
“This means the price of the X55 will be $34,990 with the B30 [pictured] starting at $39,990. These are unbelievable price-points for specification rich, comfortable, confident and capable new models.
“BAIC has almost 70 years of engineering experience, is established in more than 90 countries, and has enjoyed recent award-winning success in right-hand-drive markets such as South Africa and Malaysia.
“Now it’s our turn to experience the quality and prowess of these acclaimed, accessible and competitively positioned SUVs.”
Key X55 features
This mid-size SUV features a “captivating design complemented by a luxurious interior and lighting signature”. There are ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, 360-degree camera and power tailgate as standard.
The X55 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine for 138kW of power and 305Nm of torque. It boasts a 10.1-inch central control screen and 10.25-inch LCD instrument screen, wireless phone connection, black interior and is available in 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,” says Rutherford. “It offers features and capabilities expected of a larger SUV for small-SUV money.”
Three B30 variants
The B30’s siblings – with their “chunky, off-road orientated appearances” – are the Elite Adventure, Premium Adventure HEV and Premium Adventure HEV All-Wheel Drive.
The line-up features the same petrol engine as the X55. There is the option of a hybrid EV powertrain, which boosts power to 301kW and provides 685Nm of torque. It’s available in two and all-wheel drive (AWD).
Rutherford says: “It’s an adventure SUV most at home when out and about exploring, yet provides occupants with the peace of mind knowing they haven’t compromised between comfort, safety and capability.
“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 and hill-hold control, a 25-degree approach and 30-departure angle, as well as mud, sand and wading drive modes.
“It features a tough chassis with a long wheelbase for stability and added surefootedness, offering real ability without the trade-offs often associated with large off-roading machines.”
The X55 and B30 feature six airbags. Advanced driver-assistance systems include blind-spot detection, intelligent cruise assist, lane-departure warning with the X55 or lane-keep assist with the B30, autonomous emergency braking and forward-collision warning. Active and passive safety features deliver a five-star VSRR score for both models.
Accessories and the rest
The new BAIC models are launching with a variety of accessories, all of which will be available with a special launch price through to June 1.
Rutherford says: “This creates an opportunity for owners to personalise their vehicle to their individual tastes, either from a form and function perspective or to make their new ride stand out.”
Many of the accessories are “adventure orientated” to support off-road use. These include a roof platform, roof side ladder, side-window extension rack, roof storage box and side awning. Others are electric running boards and nitrogen shock absorber, front engine guard and rear motor guard.
The BAIC range is initially available at seven different locations around the country, including Armstong’s BAIC dealerships in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
Additional sites are Takanini Auto Group, Auckland Auto Group 283 on the Albany Highway, Waikato Auto Group in Hamilton and Tauranga Motor Group.
“Although we have 65 per cent of the market covered at launch, we will continue to expand our dealer network, especially into the South Island to ensure everyone can easily access the brand for sales and service,” says Rutherford.
“We have lofty aspirations for the brand and are confident we can develop an extensive nationwide network as we grow the product offering to serve the interests of owners well into the future.” UDC has been selected as the marque’s finance partner of choice in New Zealand.
All models in the BAIC range come with a seven-year and unlimited kilometre warranty as standard and, in the case of the B30e, an eight year and unlimited kilometre hybrid battery warranty. In addition, a seven-year roadside assistance package is standard.
The service interval on the X55 and B30 is one year or 10,000km. BAIC service plans are also available over three, four and five years.
“Offering such a comprehensive warranty and servicing programme demonstrates BAIC is confident in its product quality and is here for the long haul,” says Rutherford.
Launch prices are $34,990 for the X55 Premium, $39,990 for the B30 Elite Adventure, $44,990 for B30 Premium Adventure HEV and $49,990 for the B30 Premium Adventure HEV AWD, plus on-road costs and dealer delivery fee. All these prices increase by $3,000 after June 1.
