The Chinese car manufacturer Brilliance has been doing business with BMW for quite a while now. The two even co-own a factory in China where German vehicles are assembled for the local market. Despite all this, the companies have never before collaborated on a new vehicle model. That is, until now.
Enter Brilliance V7, a seven-seat crossover SUV with BMW tech on board, the most expensive and prestigious vehicle in the range.
The newcomer is virtually identical in size and dimensions to those of the BMW X3. It uses a slightly modified version of the M8X platform jointly designed by BMW and Magna. In fact, the only modification concerns the rear multi-link suspension design.
The vehicle comes driven by a German-designed BMW N18 gasoline engine with 1.6L displacement room and four cylinders. It is capable of 204 hp (152 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb·ft) of torque, and ships with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DCT transmission.
The interior design of the Brilliance V7 carries a strong resemblance to that of the Bavaria-made cars. For instance, there is the same non-locking gear shifter and the same giant infotainment screen in the center, which is also responsible for the climate control. Available options include a panorama roof, LED lighting, a 360-degree camera view system, a HUD, power front seats etc.
The Brilliance V7 will enter the Chinese market before the end of the summer priced at around U.S. $22,000. The manufacturer refuses to say whether there will be a release outside of China.
Photo: car.autohome.com.cn