BAIC X55: A Comprehensive Review
The BAIC X55 is emerging as a notable player in the compact SUV segment, offering an affordable yet luxurious package. This vehicle is not just about cost-saving; it incorporates modern technology and design, aiming to compete with more established models like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
Overview
Positioning: The BAIC X55 aims to provide luxury features without the high price tag, targeting the mainstream market of compact SUVs.
Design: It features a modern and slightly futuristic look, with hidden door handles and LED lighting. While the rear design is less cohesive, it includes elements like a split upper roof spoiler and LED taillights.
Variants and Wheels: Available in three trim levels, the base model has 18-inch alloy wheels, and higher trims come with 19-inch anthracite-colored wheels.
Interior
Design and Quality: The interior stands out for its high perceived quality, with a stylish sloping dashboard and a minimalist approach to switchgear.
Infotainment: Two screens on the dashboard include a driver display and a central screen for the vehicle controls and infotainment system, which lacks Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
Seating: Seats resemble those in the Lamborghini Urus, with the top-spec model offering ventilated and heated seats.
Additional Features: The Premium model includes a panoramic sunroof with rain detection, customizable ambient lighting, seat memory, and reclining rear seats.
Powertrain
Engine: All models come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, producing 130 kW and 305 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Drive Modes: Four drive modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart.
Fuel Efficiency: In Eco mode, it claims a consumption figure of 7.7 l/100km.
Safety
Safety Features: Equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, driver fatigue monitoring, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Specifications and Features
Dimensions: Length 4620mm, Width 1886mm, Height 1680mm, Wheelbase 2735mm.
Brakes: Disk brakes at both the front and rear.
Entertainment & Communication: Touch screen, FM/AM/Radio, Navigation System, Bluetooth, USB & Auxiliary Input, Apple CarPlay.
Exterior Features: Adjustable headlights, fog lights, rear window wiper and washer, alloy wheels, sunroof, moonroof, and LED DRLs.
Safety Systems: Comprehensive safety suite including ABS, brake assist, EBD, vehicle stability control, rear camera, parking sensors, and more.
Pricing
Cost-Effectiveness: The X55 is priced competitively, with the base model (Dynamic) starting at R394 900, the Elite at R424 900, and the Premium at R454 900.
