The all-new 2nd generation BAIC BJ40 SUV has entered mass production in China, with sales & formal launch expected to commence soon. Pre-sales of the latest SUV have already begun in the Chinese domestic market with a manufacturer-suggested retail price ranging between 185,800 – 225,800 yuan ($25,385 – $30,850).
The first-generation BJ40 (also available in Pakistan) debuted as a concept at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show, while the production version debuted three years later at the 2013 Guangzhou Auto Show. The BJ naming system stands for BeiJing, the capital of the country, and the brand name of the vehicle.
The exterior of the all-new BAIC BJ40
In terms of appearance, the all-new, second-generation BJ40 has a more streamlined and fluid appearance while retaining the recognizable design features of its predecessor. There are LED headlamps up front, squarish wheel arches, new alloy wheels, vertically oriented LED tail lights, and other typical SUV elements such as roof rails, chunky wheels, a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and lots of black claddings for a more rugged appearance.
Inside, the all-new BJ40 gets a large twin-screen setup that spans from the dashboard’s center to the front of the passenger seat. It also features an LCD instrument panel and a new multi-function steering wheel. The central tunnel features a compact gear lever, rotary drive mode selector, wireless charging pad, and a storage compartment. The SUV is only available in a 5-seat configuration.
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Under the hood, the new BAIC BJ40 gets a 2.0L turbocharged engine from HYCET, a subsidiary of Great Wall Motors. The engine churns out 245 hp of power and 395 Nm of torque and comes paired with an 8AT gearbox from ZF Friedrichshafen. The drive type of the BJ40 is part-time 4WD and offers 11 driving modes. The claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 10 seconds.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
