M50S: ‘VERSATILE FAMILY CAR’
and ruggedly lived-in look.” The front-wheel drive crossover is powered by a Euro5-compliant, turbocharged Mitsubishi 4A91T 1.5-liter gasoline engine with MIVEC variable valve timing. The system generates 147 hp (at 6,000 rpm) and 210 Nm of torque (from 2,000 - 2,500 rpm). BAIC maintains that because the engine is turbocharged, it is fuel-efficient and powerful — “delivering the power of a 2.25-liter engine” when needed. The power plant is mated to a CVT transmission with a “deep starting ratio for heavy-hauling situations.”
BAIC claims a fuel economy figure of 13.15 kilometers per liter on “comprehensive driving conditions through intercity highways and inner-city streets.”
The BJ20 clears the ground by 215 millimeters, and rides on 225/55 tires mounted on sporty 18-inch alloys. It features an electric power-assisted steering, auto-hold parking, an electronic parking brake, climate control with air filtration, and an infotainment system predicated on a 10.1-inch interactive touch screen.
“The BJ20 [has a] totally modern design you would expect from a much more expensive luxury vehicle, such as having a panoramic sunroof,” declared Mr. Chua. “Personally, the most endearing feature… is that it is turbocharged, and [has] a dual exhaust system — something you see only in highperformance vehicles.”
The BJ20 is priced at P1.148 million for the 1.5-liter turbo CVT Standard variant, and P1.288 million for the 1.5-liter turbo CVT Luxury edition.
The sequel to BAIC’s three-row M20 boasts a “roomy cabin, rugged construction, responsive engine, and refined ride.” The brand positions this new vehicle with an updated series designation as a “versatile family car” with the qualities of a people mover and a utility vehicle.
Also boasting three rows, the M50S is tall and boxy, capable of a 2+3+3 seating configuration with a middle-row bench, or a 2+2+3 formation with individual seats in the middle. BAIC bestows some premium touches — such as microfiber synthetic leather-covered seats, electrically assisted steering, and an infotainment system with a reversing camera.
The rear-wheel-driven MPV has body-on-frame construction, and is motivated by a DAM15DL 1.5-liter, Euro5 gasoline engine with advanced dual variable valve timing promising 114 hp and 150 Nm. BAIC insists there is enough room for cargo even if the rear bench is not collapsed (the second row is foldable, too).
“With the introduction of the M50S, you get something much more than the M20,” continued Mr. Chua. “[It] is bigger, better, more advanced, and with more features. The best part is that if you consider the devaluation of the peso and the increase in excise tax rates, the introductory price of the M50S… is actually cheaper than the old price of the M20.”
The M50S seven/eight-seater Luxury variant costs P638,000; the Ultra-Luxury variant goes for P668,000.