BAIC Group has officially unveiled the Beiqi Ruixiang X5, a seven-seat crossover SUV that happens to share its name and some of the design traits with the BMW X5, but makes do with less interior space and a fraction of the power.
The car has rather recognizable outlines with a large radiator grille and gaping air intakes in the front bumper. At 4,788 mm (187 inches) long with 2,815 mm (110 inches) between the axles, it is 130 mm (5.1 inches) shorter than its Bavarian namesake and has around 160 mm (6.25 inches) less in the wheelbase department.
The interior looks solid and notably lacks gaudiness: the leather trim and the wood inserts wear shades of grey, and the front panel is occupied by a 12.3-inch digital dash along with a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen. Online services, voice command support, 4G and simultaneous wireless tethering of up to three devices are all on the supported list.
Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed transmission (manual or auto – you choose) for 156 PS (154 hp / 115 kW) and 215 Nm (160 lb-ft) of torque. Drivers can switch between three available drive modes, but AWD is not mentioned anywhere.
Prices remain to be announced.