BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation) has just launched its new Beijing X55 locally this week.
The futuristic looking SUV will be the new flagship of the Chinese manufacturer and boasts the new platform that will underpin other new BAIC models to come, also hybrids.
The manufacturer is locally known for its entry-level small crossover, called the X25 and, of course, the Jeep lookalike B40 Plus with choices between petrol and diesel engines. Examples of its small entry-level D20 hatchback and sedan are also still around, but like the X25, the D20 has reached the end of its life cycle.
What’s new?
It is brand new with a design that resembles that of a number of other modern SUVs with thin lights and a big grille that flows with a modern pattern into the bumper and downwards. The same principle applies to the back with a thin strip-light-layout and a roofline tapering downwards to the back.
Under the hood, you will find a 1.5 turbo engine with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that delivers 130 kW and 305 Nm.
With only one spec available, the list of safety equipment and creature comforts is high in part thanks to BAIC’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz.
The X55 has LED lights, floor door induction, hidden door handles ensuring that when carrying the key near the vehicle, the X55 automatically unlocks and pops up the door handle; when getting out of the vehicle, the vehicle automatically locks and closes the door handle.
Safety highlights include six airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic parking brake, Hill hold control, Hill descent control, Warning of tired driving, Crash doors unlock automatically and Bosch’s 9.3 latest generation ESP system, as well as front & rear sensors.
Models, Prices and Availability
The Beijing X55 range will consist of three models, the Dynamic, Elite and Premium with prices ranging between R400 000 and R460 000. The X55 will be on showroom floors during November this year.
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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