Beijing-based carmaker BAIC has made its official debut in Malaysia, with two fashions being proven in the present day. Crucial of those is the X55, a C-segment SUV that competes with the likes of the Proton X70 and Honda CR-V.
The X55 will likely be supplied in two variants – Commonplace and Premium, carrying estimated pricing of between RM12x,xxx and RM14x,xxx. One factor of observe is that the automobile you see here’s a pre-production unit – the finalised CKD model is simply set to be delivered within the fourth quarter of the yr, domestically assembled on the EP Manufacturing (EPMB) plant in Melaka.
Our earlier report erroneously labeled the X55 as a B-segment SUV, however its dimensions simply put it in a category above. Measuring 4,620 mm lengthy, 1,886 mm broad and 1,680 mm tall, the BAIC is sort of 100 mm longer, 55 mm wider and simply 14 mm decrease than the X70, whereas its 2,735 mm wheelbase is 65 mm longer. The truth is, it’s solely barely smaller than benchmark Honda CR-V, which measures 4,691 mm lengthy, 1,866 mm broad and 1,691 mm tall. One other indicator of the X55’s C-segment standing is its unbiased multilink rear suspension.
Each variants are powered by the identical 1.5 litre turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine that produces 188 PS at 5,500 rpm and 305 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. All that’s despatched to the entrance wheels through a seven-speed moist dual-clutch transmission, enabling the X55 to get from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. Gas consumption is rated at 7.2 litres per 100 km on the WLTP cycle.
On the surface, the X55 actually cuts a pointy determine, with slim L-shaped LED daytime operating lights and taillights (the principle LED headlights are mounted low down within the bumper), outstanding bonnet creases, upswept window line and chrome window strips. The closed-off entrance finish provides the automobile an EV-like look, enhanced by the hexagonal bumper sample paying homage to the Lexus RX. Flush pop-out door handles are additionally fitted.
On the rear, you’ll discover a big cut up spoiler for a really sporty look. This will likely be enhanced by quad tailpipes that aren’t on the pre-production unit however will likely be seen on the finalised variations, much like the Proton X50. A two-tone color scheme will likely be out there as an choice with a black roof and door mirrors. One other quirk on this explicit automobile is the “Beijing” badging, which will likely be changed by “BAIC” on retail models.
Inside, the X55 encompasses a minimalist look that’s all the fad amongst Chinese language carmakers, with a smooth horizontal dashboard bookended by L-shaped nook air-con vents. There’s additionally a “floating” centre console with a flat gear selector, numerous open storage and a typical Qi wi-fi charger.
The entrance occupants sit on fashionable power-adjustable seats with built-in headrests. The Commonplace mannequin comes with fake leather-based upholstery, with the Premium getting crimson real leather-based in addition to reminiscence, heating and air flow features.
The X55 additionally comes with twin ten-inch shows for the instrument cluster and infotainment, the latter incorporating the dual-zone local weather controls. Sadly, there doesn’t seem like any Apple CarPlay or Android Auto performance, however you do at the very least get Bluetooth and 6 audio system.
Different customary package contains keyless entry, push-button begin, a panoramic glass sunroof, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear air-con vents, a reverse digital camera, a powered tailgate and 6 airbags. The Premium provides ten-colour ambient lighting, seen within the doorways.
One unknown is the extent of driver help techniques on provide. The pre-production unit you see right here doesn’t have them, however BAIC promised that the finalised variations can have entrance collision warning, adaptive cruise management, lane departure warning and blind spot warning. You received’t get lane holding or lane centring, nonetheless, and there’s additionally no phrase on autonomous emergency braking.
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