BAIC has returned to the Philippine market and will offer five unique crossovers and SUVs to the Filipino car buyer. Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd. (BAIC), made the announcement during an exclusive preview of what they will debut during the upcoming 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).
BAIC in the Philippines will be operating under its new official distributor, United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI), also the distributor of Foton, Chery, and Lynk & Co brands.
As opposed to many new brands, BAIC will still have a healthy lineup of body-on-frame and diesel models. These are the B40 Ragnar, B80 Wagon, and B60 Beaumont (diesel hybrid). These vehicles feature 4-wheel drive, and come with turbocharged diesel or gas engines. Their sizes range from 2.0 to 3.0 liters, while producing impressive torque figures ranging from 380-Nm to 420-Nm.
Rugged 4x4s
The B40 Ragnar sports very rugged design and is powered by 2.0-liter turbo-diesel and features 4WD with a locking rear differential. The B60 Beaumont has more sophisticated styling and can seat seven passengers. It’s powered by 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It also has a 4WD system with three locking differentials and off-road drive modes. The B80 Wagon resembles a very popular luxury SUV and is powered by a 3.0-liter gasoline turbo V6 that produces 280-PS and 420-Nm of torque. It has part-time 4WD and locking rear differential.
Sleek crossovers
For those looking for more on-road oriented SUVs, BAIC has the BAIC X55 Verve and the X7 Grandeza. The X55 may look like an EV because of its sleek styling but is actually powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch gearbox. It produces 187-PS and 275-Nm of torque. Finally, the X7 is the larger crossover. It’s also powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired to a a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch gearbox but makes up to 305-Nm of torque.
All of the models benefit from the latest in modern technology geared towards improving passenger comfort, safety, and convenience. These include large touchscreen displays, automatic power tailgates, automatic LED headlamps, cruise control, smart key entry, power-adjustable seats, LCD instrument panels, panoramic sunroofs, and leather seats among others. BAIC models also feature multiple airbags as well as a full suite of advanced electronic driver-assist systems, and sophisticated four-wheel drive systems.
BAIC Philippines hopes its product lineup will appeal to more adventurous weekend warrior executives looking for a rugged 4x4 or professionals in the market for a stylish and fully equipped crossover. The BAIC Philippines dealership and service network will be announced soon. All vehicles are made in the company's world-class, fully robotized plants in Shunyi, Beijing.
Spearheading BAIC Philippines’ introduction into the local market were Managing Director, Froilan Dytianquin. Chief Marketing Executive, Lyn Manalansang Buena and BAIC Brand Head; and General Manager, Christopher David Yu, under the leadership of Chairman, Rommel L. Sytin.
“We are confident that BAIC vehicles, with their cutting-edge technology and exceptional quality, will resonate deeply with Filipino drivers,” said Froilan Dytianquin, Group Managing Director.
BAIC has priced these vehicles strategically, beginning with the X55 Verve at ₱1,400,000; X7 Grandeza at ₱1,700,000; B40 Ragnar at ₱2,400,000; B60 Beaumont at ₱3,200,000; and B80 Wagon at ₱4,500,000.
BAIC Philippines will have its grand public launch at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) from April 4-7, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.