Beijing X55 launched with striking looks, bargain price
WITH brands like Haval and Chery creeping up the sales charts, it’s no secret that the Chinese automotive industry has upped its game.
Now, there is another disruptor on the scene, and it aims to entice South African midsize SUV buyers with its striking looks inside and out, bountiful spec and high-value price tag.
The Beijing X55 is a product of BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation). It sells the X25 compact crossover and B40 off-roader.
The Beijing X55is priced closer to the segment below. Three models are on offer, with the entry-level X55 Dynamic coming in at R394 900, the midspec Elite at R424 900, and the flagship Premium variant at R454 900.
Beneath the bonnet of all three, you’ll find a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine that pushes 130kw and 305Nm through the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
We spent some time with the new Chinese contender on a launch route between Johannesburg and Magaliesburg, and we were impressed with its performance. The X55 is more than adequately powered for its size and power delivery is relatively smooth.
BAIC claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.8 litres per 100km, real-world consumption is likely to be higher than that.
As for the road holding, the X55 does well for an SUV. It has an independent multi-link suspension, and all models have generously sized wheels, with the base version rolling on 18-inch alloys and the mid/top variants filling out their arches with chunky 19” rims. Although the vehicle did feel a touch firm over harsh speed bumps, it was comfortable on most of the rural road surfaces, and its overall on-road refinement impressed.
Drivers can also choose between four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart, which learns your driving behaviour.
The Beijing X55’s exterior design is striking but more arresting on the inside. The race car-like sports front seats, with integrated headrests, take inspiration from the Lamborghini Urus and the cockpit area looks futuristic with its highmounted floating console, and separate floating screens for the infotainment and digital instrumentation.
There are a few functional drawbacks. For starters, the ventilation system can be operated only via the central screen and there is no dualzone climate control in any of the variants. The system also lacks Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity.
The Beijing X55 impresses with its spacious interior that offers plenty of legroom and a generous boot.
Although the cabin build quality seemed solid and decent overall, the interior panel on the passenger side windscreen pillar came loose in one of the cars we sampled.
The base Dynamic model ships with push-button start, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, rain sensor, auto headlights, rear park distance control with reverse camera, on-board wi-fi and a refrigerated centre console bin. Safety kit seems generous, with six airbags, ESP stability control and tyre pressure monitoring.
The Elite model ups the luxury game with a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, leather-covered steering wheel and more. The Premium derivative comes with front park distance control, front seat heating, leather upholstery, eight speakers, among other things.
The Beijing X55 is sold with a fiveyear or 150 000km warranty and five years of unlimited kilometre roadside assistance. A five-year service plan is optional.