Purchasing a new car can be very exciting but when shopping for the next family vehicle, there are quite a few more considerations to take into account before signing the dotted line. One of the biggest considerations is whether or not you can afford it in the first place and for that reason, we are taking a look at BAIC's affordable range of vehicles.
While the BAIC models provide very good value for money, will they be enough to handle the whole family? Let us take a look at each individual model.
D20
The entry point for the BAIC brand is the D20 with the highest specified derivative, at the time of writing this article, retailing for less than R200 000. Under the bonnet feature a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor producing 85 kW and 148 Nm of torque, ample for daily commuting and the occasional trip. The D20 also surprise with 450-litres of boot space with the seats in its standard configuration.
While this hatch does provide five seats and enough space for five average-sized people, the three rear occupants might get a bit cramped on longer trips. In terms of safety, the D20 comes fitted with ABS brakes and an airbag for the driver and one for the front passenger. ISOFIX mounting points feature on the outer rear seats. This option might just suit a new family better or one with two small children.
X25
Next in BAIC's line-up is the X25 crossover model. As you would expect, the ride height has been increased and the interior and exterior dimensions increased. Powered by the same engine as the D20, it produces the same power and torque figures. While it offers the same safety items as the D20, it does come with comfort items such as cruise control.
The X25 offers 500-litres of boot space and additional leg and shoulder room for the rear occupants which will make this a better option for parents with teens or adult passengers.
B40 Plus
The B40 Plus is the most recent model to feature in the BAIC line-up. The SUV comes with a larger and more powerful 2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 160 kW and 320 Nm of torque. This will be ample for the daily commutes and for off-road duties too. As it stands taller, measures longer and is wider than the other two models, it makes sense how BAIC managed to offer 532-litres of luggage space while giving even more space for all the occupants inside the cabin.
While the B40 Plus in Champion guise also offers only two airbags, the model's safety credentials are bolstered by the inclusion of stability and traction control systems as well as electronic assist for the ABS brakes. Drivers also benefit from hill-start and hill-descent control assist systems. Not only will the B40 Plus prove ample for any daily use but can even take the family to remote destinations during trips.
