BAIC has been quietly operating in SA for a couple of years, but it seems this Chinese manufacturer will ramp things up significantly early in 2020.
South Africa will be the first right-hand drive market in the world to get the B40, known as the BJ40 in other regions.
It’s fairly obvious where BAIC drew its inspiration from, so let’s move right along to the facts and figures.
The B40 features a body-on-frame design, part-time four-wheel drive and an electronically-activated low-range transfer case. A manually locking rear differential is also included as standard.
Up front it has a double-wishbone suspension setup up front and a five-link rigid axle at the rear.
Engine options include 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and diesel units, mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic.
BAIC claims a ground clearance of 220mm. Couple that with an approach angle of 37 degrees, departure angle of 31 degrees and a breakover of 23 degrees and you have the makings of a highly capable off-roader.
The BAIC arrives locally early in 2020. The pricing will be revealed closer to its introduction.
