The automaker is headquartered in Beijing BAIC has officially launched in Malaysia with two models on display today. The most important of these is the X55, a C-segment SUV that competes with the likes of Proton X70 And Honda CR-V.
The X55 will be offered in two variants – Standard and Premium, with an estimated price ranging from RM12x,xxx And RM14x,xxx. One thing to note is that the car you see here is a pre-production car – the finished CKD version is only expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of this year, assembled locally at the EP Manufacturing factory (EPMB) in Melaka.
Our previous report mistakenly classified the X55 as a B-segment SUV, but its dimensions easily place it in the upper class. At 4,620 mm long, 1,886 mm wide and 1,680 mm tall, the BAIC is nearly 100 mm longer, 55 mm wider and only 14 mm lower than the X70, while the 2,735 mm wheelbase is 65 mm longer. In fact, it’s only slightly smaller than the standard Honda CR-V at 4,691 mm long, 1,866 mm wide and 1,691 mm tall. Another sign of the X55’s C-segment status is its independent multi-link rear suspension.
Both variants are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injected 4-cylinder engine, generating 188 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and maximum torque of 305 rpm. Nm from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. All is transmitted to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, allowing the X55 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.2 liters/100 km on the WLTP cycle.
On the outside, the X55 certainly has a sharp shape with daytime running lights and slim L-shaped LED taillights (the main LED headlights are mounted low in the bumper), prominent bonnet creases, Reverse window lines and chrome window strips. The closed front end gives the car an EV-like appearance, enhanced by a hexagonal bumper pattern reminiscent of the Lexus RX. Sliding door handles are also included.
At the rear, you’ll find a large split spoiler that gives it a very sporty look. This will be enhanced by four exhaust pipes that are not present on the pre-production unit but will be visible on finished versions, similar to Proton X50. A two-tone color scheme option will be available with a black roof and door mirrors. Another difference on this special vehicle is the “Beijing” badge, which will be replaced by “BAIC” on retail units.
Inside, the X55 has the minimalist look favored by Chinese automakers, with a sleek horizontal dashboard flanked by L-shaped corner air-conditioning vents. There’s also a dashboard. “floating” center console with flat gear selector, multiple open storage compartments and standard Qi wireless charger.
Front occupants sit on stylish electrically adjustable seats with integrated headrests. The Standard model comes with leatherette upholstery, while the Premium gets red genuine leather as well as memory, heating and ventilation functions.
The X55 also comes with dual 10-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, the latter of which integrates a dual-zone climate control system. Unfortunately, there doesn’t appear to be any Apple CarPlay or Android Auto functionality, but at least you get Bluetooth and six speakers.
Other standard equipment includes keyless entry, push-button start, panoramic glass sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear air conditioning vents, reversing camera, rear door Electric adjustment and six airbags. The Premium adds ten-color ambient lighting, visible in the doors.
One unknown is the level of driver assistance systems on offer. The pre-production unit you see here doesn’t have them, but BAIC promises that final versions will have forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot warning. However, you won’t get lane-keeping or lane-centering features, and there’s no word on automatic emergency braking either.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with carrot.
