We recently tested out the GWM Haval and P Series models, which impressed us and left us with a new appreciation for Chinese motoring. Now with GWM gaining popularity in SA, it appears BAIC also wants a piece of the local market. To that end, they have just released the BAIC B40 Plus to prove to the locals that they, too, have a lot more to offer.
BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd) is a Chinese automotive company that dates back to 1959. The company has produced enough vehicles through its subsidiaries to earn it a spot in the top five of China’s largest car manufacturers. For the sceptical, remember that no company can establish such a legacy while creating terrible products. As evidence of their commitment to the local market, BAIC launched an assembly plant in Coega in the Eastern Cape, which is set to create much-needed employment opportunities for the Gqeberhacommunity. In addition, the facility, with a footprint of 10,000 hectares, aims to produce 40,000 to 50,000 vehicles for local sale and export by the end of 2022. But what of their latest model, the B40 Plus?
A Mix of Old & New
Right off the bat, the B40 strikes me as a stylish vehicle. Its rugged demeanour is a combination of both contemporary and old school styling cues. Wide aggressive wheel arches hint towards the off-road potential of the car; a styling trait shared with other retro-inspired off-roaders such as the Jeep Wrangler and Mercedes G Class. Adding to the theatre is a removable roof panel which instantly converts the B40 into an open-top off-roader.
The B40 Plus comes with three trim levels: the B40, the B40 Hunter, and the B40 Champion. The first two trim levels are available with petrol or diesel engines, while the Champion is a strict petrol affair. The base model boasts 17” alloys, halogen headlamps, front end tow hooks, removable hardtop, front and rear fog lamps and LED daytime running lights.
The interior is just as stylish as the exterior. While being quite utilitarian, it still manages to look sleek and modern. I like the use of primary shapes, from the circular air vents to the rectangular infotainment unit mounted on the centre of the dashboard, which creates an uncluttered and cohesive design. The colour-coded interior trim with chrome accents also livens up the cabin.
I am also pleased to note that the car sticks to physical controls for the dual-zone air conditioning system, which in my opinion, makes more sense for an off-road vehicle. A welcome touch to the cabin is the handy grab handle on the passenger side of the dashboard for when things get rough while off-roading. The B40 is not Spartan, seeing how you also get to enjoy amenities such as a six-speaker audio system, reverse camera, and a customisable multi-information display. You will also get a leather multifunction steering wheel and electric adjustability for the driver’s seat if you purchase the flagship Champion model.
BAIC are also proud of the NVH dampening afforded by Liquid Application Sound Deadening (LASD) technology, which increases the application area of the sound-dampening material in a vehicle by 50%. In addition to being environmentally friendly, the technology contributes to weight reduction and improved noise reduction levels.
Drivetrain Options
The B40 plus comes with two engine options – a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 160 kW @ 5,500 rpm and 320 Nm of torque, or the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, which churns out 110 kW @ 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at a low 1,800-2,800 rpm. As mentioned earlier, you can have any of these engine options with either the base model or the Hunter. The Champion will come strictly with the petrol engine. The diesel engine comes with a six-speed manual transmission, while the petrol makes do with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
The engine does not work alone, however. A proper off-roader needs to be built on the right platform. BAIC has given the B40 a double wishbone/coil spring independent front suspension while the rear gets a five-link/coil spring non-independent suspension. This is complemented by a 210 mm ride height and short overhangs, which grant the car an approach angle of 37 degrees, a departure angle of 31 degrees and a ramp-over angle of 23 degrees. All this means that the B40 should be able to handle itself on undulating terrain – as you would expect from a genuine off-roader.
A selectable 4WD system with a mechanical central transfer case and rear differential lock gives the driver more control over how the engine is powered, dependent on the terrain, conditions and requirements.
Safety and Security
As standard, the car comes with a host of active and passive safety features to ensure your adventure is on your terms. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) are standard across all models, while some models also feature Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Ascent Control (HAC) and Hill Descent Control (HAC).
With the roof removed, you can see the built-in cage anti-roll body structure and anti-roll bar framework composed of a high strength steel plate and pipe beam, which you will undoubtedly need once you make use of the removable roof feature. BAIC maintains that the roll cage will maintain its structural integrity even in the event of a 50 m hillside roll.
Last Word
With a starting price of R549,500, the B40 Plus introduces South Africans to a more accessible off-road package. The B40 brings to the table stylish looks and the promise of solid off-road performance. We cannot wait to get our hands on one for a drive so that we see whether the Chinese giant has hit a home run with the B40 Plus.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU & Images © BAIC South Africa
