BAIC gears up for launch
BAIC is launching in New Zealand later this month with its initial line-up consisting of two models – the X55 Premium and B30.
The latter will be available in three different variants – the Elite Adventure, Premium Adventure HEV and Premium Adventure HEV All-Wheel Drive.
Simon Rutherford, chief executive officer of Auto Distribution Holdings Ltd, says: “BAIC is a brand with a broad international footprint shaped by more than 68 years of product evolution.
“It has a reputation for developing capable family-orientated vehicles with practical features and attributes, with the ability to venture off the beaten track.
“The X55 [pictured above] and B30 will fit naturally alongside the daily lives of Kiwis. They offer the space, performance and utility consumers are searching for at an accessible price.
“BAIC already has an award-winning pedigree in right-hand-drive markets such as South Africa, Indonesia and Malaysia. Kiwis will be drawn to the new models. They look great, perform well and fit our outdoors way of life.”
Brought to New Zealand by Armstrong’s, the new models are available to order and test drive from February 27.
Rutherford describes the X55 and B30 as “hugely capable, spacious and feature-rich models”’. He adds: “They handle the day-to-day with ease, but are also up for the unplanned detour when adventure calls.
“Owners will have every confidence in their new vehicle thanks to the brand’s history of decades of engineering capability and know-how. It’s this longevity, combined with a seven-year warranty, that will deliver a high level of trust and peace of mind.”
He says the X55 can be thought of as bold design meeting intelligent performance, made for urban lifestyles and active families.
“Its striking exterior, athletic proportions and distinctive lighting signature give it a confident road presence, while the interior delivers generous space, luxury and a high-tech, driver-focused environment”.
As for the B30, Rutherford describes it as being adventure orientated, combining rugged looks with a spacious cabin and intuitive technology. Its exterior “emphasises its excellent off-road credentials. It is capable and durable, yet doesn’t compromise passenger comfort”.
Key safety specifications shared by the X55 and B30 include six airbags, blind-spot detection, intelligent cruise assist, lane-departure warning on the X55 or lane-keep assist on the B30, autonomous emergency braking and forward-collision warning, which contribute to its five-star VSRR score.
The X55 mid-size SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine producing 138kW of power and 305Nm or torque. It features a 10.1-inch central control screen and 10.25-inch LCD instrument screen, wireless phone connection and a full black interior.
It is available in a choice of six exterior colours including premium two-tone paints, and is complemented by LED headlights, daytime running lights and taillights.
The B30 medium-sized SUV, pictured below, features the same petrol engine with the option of a hybrid EV powertrain available in 2WD and AWD. The hybrid powertrain boosts power to 301kW and 685Nm of torque.
In keeping with its off-road credentials, the B30 offers four different drive modes as well as hill descent and hill-hold control. It has 215mm ground clearance, with the increased ride height “significantly enhancing” its exploring ability.
Extra features include fold-flat seats, almost 1,500 litres of boot space when the seats are folded down, heated and ventilated front seats, and 10.25-inch LCD instrument and 14.6-inch centre screens.
Pricing for the models, together with more extensive specifications including accessories and details of the dealer network, will be released at the end of February.
