MIAS 2024: BAIC returns to PH with UAAGI, launches SUV lineup

BAIC holds PH comeback at MIAS 2024

After holding a special preview to the media and select guests, BAIC has officially returned to the Philippine market with United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI). With it, the automaker has revealed not one, not two, but five new models that will cover various segments and price points in the crossover & SUV markets.

Let’s start with the B Series models which are all body-on-frame vehicles. First up is the B40 Ragnar which serves as BAIC PH’s most rugged body-on-frame 4x4. With approach and departure angles of 37 degrees & 31 degrees, respectively, this SUV can easily tackle any type of terrain. It also has a ramp angle of 23 degrees for extra peace of mind while going off-road. The B40 Ragnar even comes with 220mm of ground clearance.

Under the hood of the B40 Ragnar is a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine that cranks out 161 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Power is then transferred to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that is paired with a part-time 4WD system. To maximize traction over any terrain, it benefits from a rear-locking differential.

Get inside and the B40 Ragnar will surprise occupants with its number of features despite its rugged pedigree. These include a 10-inch infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, a 220V power outlet, and leather upholstery. Also serving as a unique feature are the removable tops which will allow drivers to treat the B40 Ragnar as an open vehicle, much like the Jeep Wrangler.

Next is the B60 Beaumont which combines high-tech amenities with the ability to go anywhere in luxury. Like the B40, this one also packs a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine which puts out 161 PS and 350 Nm of torque. It too also gets an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a part-time 4WD system with a rear locking differential. There are several drive modes to choose from as well to ensure that any terrain can be dealt with accordingly. Did we mention it also gets a Crawl Control system which is essentially cruise control for going off-road?

What ultimately makes the B60 Beaumont distinct from its B40 Ragnar sibling is its ability to carry 7 people and its fully loaded cabin. That’s right, the B60 is a three-row frame-based SUV that’s filled to the brim with countless features. From a fully digital instrument panel to a high-end touchscreen infotainment system, as well as a 12-speaker system, a three-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, the B60 Beaumont is packing plenty.

The last of the frame-based vehicles is the flagship B80 Wagon. From its namesake and design, this particular SUV appears to be heavily influenced by a certain G Wagen. It has a boxy and rugged-looking exterior and is complemented by a 4WD system with a locking rear differential.

Under the hood is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that generates 280 PS along with 420 Nm of torque. Like the B60 and B40, this one is also connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Hop inside and the B80 Wagon is loaded with features and comes with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, an 8-inch touchscreen media system, automatic climate control with rear vents, power-adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver, a 7-speaker sound system, full leather upholstery, and LED headlights/taillights.

Up next are the crossover SUV models; the X7 Grandeza and the X55 Verve. Beginning with the former, this is a midsize crossover that blends stylish looks and cutting-edge technology into one. With its concept-like looks, the X7 Grandeza features a distinct grille, tapered LED headlights & taillights, and an up-kink beltline.

The interior of the X7 Grandeza features a total of three screens - one is the digital instrument cluster, the other is the touchscreen infotainment, and the last one is the automatic climate control system. It also comes with Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and many more. Powering the X7 Grandeza is a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four that makes 187 PS and 305 Nm of pull. It is then paired with a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission that drives the front wheels.

Last but not least is the X55 Verve - BAIC’s compact crossover fighter. Despite being smaller than the X7 Grandeza, the X55 still comes with a sleek stylish exterior that includes a pair of eye-catching LED headlights/daytime running lights and LED wraparound taillights. Also worth mentioning are the pop-out door handles, unique front grille, and stylish bumpers.

Like its other siblings, the X55 Verve is packed to the brim with features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a host of USB charging ports, a wireless charging pad, leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

A 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine serves as the beating heart of the X55 Verve. It makes 187 PS just like the X7 Grandeza but puts out slightly less torque with just 275 Nm. Power is then shifted via a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch gearbox.

Pricing of the BAIC cars is as follows:

B40 Ragnar - PHP 2.368M

B60 Beaumont - PHP 3.188M

B80 Wagon - PHP 4.398M

X7 Grandeza - PHP 1.648M

X55 Verve - PHP 1.348M