The Beijing BJ40, an SUV known for its Jeep Wrangler-inspired looks, will soon go on sale in a new version called Kekexili, complete with a rugged body kit and equipment. Prices will start from 280,000 Yuan, or $38,400, according to CarNewsChina.
The Kekexili (pronounced ‘koo-koo-SHEE-li’) is a mountain range in northeastern Tibet considered part of the world heritage. It rises approximately 4,500 meters (14,750 feet) above sea level and is characterized by below-freezing annual average temperatures. Calling a production car after a remote and inhospitable place like that is one way to emphasize its brutal off-road character.
This is not to say that the engine is any different. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot still drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and three lockable differentials. The output amounts to 224 PS (221 hp / 165 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.
Where things are noticeably different is the equipment. The car makes use of heavy-duty bumpers with overlanding-friendly attachments at both ends, an expedition rack with a light bar, a second fuel tank holding 75 liters of gas, a winch and mud tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels. The exterior comes finished in a new shade of sandy orange, and each door wears something like a coat-of-arms depicting a Tibetan antelope.
Interestingly enough, the base car is not standard, but itself from a limited series: called the Ring Tower Champion Edition, it debuted this summer (see video).