1. Home
  2. News
  3. China’s Wrangler wannabe becomes Ickx K2 premium SUV for Italy

China’s Wrangler wannabe becomes Ickx K2 premium SUV for Italy

DR Automobiles, an Italian company specializing in piecing together rebadged Chery cars, has announced a new brand name: Ickx. Its firstborn will be called ‘K2’ and essentially present a fresh take on the BAIC BJ40 for China, Carscoops reports.

Compared to the BJ40, which is widely known on its home market as the “Wrangler wannabe”, the Ickx K2 wears a slightly different body kit with a redesigned hood and a carbon-fiber radiator grille. Inside, colorful accents are the only thing that’s any different.

Power for the main spec comes from a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine good for 162 PS (160 hp / 120 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission drives all four wheels, and the top speed is capped at 160 km/h (99 mph). As an off-roader, the K2 features front and rear diff locks, a frame and independent front suspension.

Prices in Italy will start from €54,500. The company explains the premium pricing with an extended list of standard features notably including a removable top, a two-zone climate control system, leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch head unit.

It is implied that the Ickx K2 will reach other markets in Europe sooner or later, although there are no estimates at this moment.