Besides BJ80 4x4, UAAGI could also bring X55 II crossover
The BAIC BJ80 4x4 could be accompanied by the sleek X55 II crossover
Last week, we confirmed that United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI) will be the new official distributor of BAIC. That means not only are they handling Geely's Lynk & Co., but they will also be managing Foton's parent company in the Philippines – Beijing Automotive Group Co. Ltd (BAIC).
While UAAGI has yet to reveal which BAIC models they will be revealing, we already have a good idea that the BJ80 4x4 SUV may be one of the vehicles they will be bringing. With a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 under the hood pushing 280 PS with 420 Nm of torque along with a G-Class-inspired exterior, the BJ80 may well be what BAIC needs to make a comeback.
Aside from that vehicle, however, the company may also launch another vehicle alongside the BJ80. Based on a social media post we saw online from a UAAGI-affiliated page, the BAIC X55 II could also be launched in the Philippines soon. Unlike the BJ80, the X55 II is a compact crossover that blends sleek looks with a high-tech cabin along with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine.
Measuring 4620mm long, 1886mm wide, 1680mm tall, and having a 2735mm wheelbase, the BAIC X55 II may take on the likes of the Ford Territory, the Changan CS55, the GAC Emkoo, and the MG One. It's powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out a healthy 188 PS with 275 Nm of torque. It is then paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission that drives the front wheels.
In the PRC, the X55 II comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system along with a massive 10.25-inch instrument cluster. Wireless phone connectivity features are available including Bluetooth while a wireless charging pad is also available in the crossover.
Other features such as a dual-zone automatic climate, a panoramic sunroof, pop-out door handles, a 360-degree camera system, power-adjustable front seats, and a host of intelligent driver aids (lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, front collision warning, blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control, & traffic jam assist) are also available in the X55 II.
We have yet to receive word as to what UAAGI plans on launching with regard to BAIC. However, given that they are now the new official distributor, we won't be surprised if they have plenty of surprises in store soon. And with the 2024 Manila International Auto Show all set this coming April, we might just see the company reveal (or preview) a host of new vehicles.
