Beijing X55: Dynamic, Elite or Premium? Which is the best choice?

The Beijing X55 from BAIC has certainly caused a stir in the SA market since it's recent launch. The value for money proposition is unquestionable.....so, which of the 3 specification levels would you choose?

This was the brief I was given when collecting the mid-spec Elite model for testing. So much has already been said and written about the X55 (including by ourselves at the launch as well as our first SA test of the Premium model).

Taking into account the fact that all models feature the same powertrain and transmission being the 1.5l turbo petrol delivering 130kW and 305Nm to the front wheels though the 7 speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The first factor that I considered was pricing. Consider that the models are priced exactly R30 000 apart, starting at R394 500 for the Dynamic. Then R424 500 for the Elite as tested and up to R454 500 for the Premium. The question is what do you get for the extra money as you go up in the range.

Let's start with Dynamic to Elite:
Pre-tensioning seat belts in front
Heated and folding door mirrors
Panoramic Sunroof
19" Alloy wheels
Automatic door handles
Power tailgate
One touch window operation all round
Green glass
Leather Steering wheel
6 way electric adjustment for driver and passenger seats
6 Speaker entertainment system

Now, what does the Premium offer for an additional R30 000
Pre-tensioning seat belts in the rear
Front radar (PDC)
Full leather trim (Red)
Driver seat memory
Front seat heating and ventilation
Rear seat angle adjustment
8 speaker entertainment system
Interior ambient lighting
Additional interior lighting

Taking into account the fact that all models have extensive safety specification and the same performance levels, only you can decide which of the features listed above are important to you the buyer.

Noting that the X55 is clearly being marketed as a price sensitive contender in our highly competitive market many buyers are highly constrained regarding the monthly payments for a new car. At current interest rates, R30 000 would cost you approximately R600 per month on a finance agreement.

Based on this fact, my personal conclusion would be to omit the Elite model. If monthly payments are my deciding factor, I would happily take the Dynamic model. If the bank manager allows, I would jump straight to the top Premium. Looking at all the extra, mainly luxury, items that the Premium model adds to the package, I feel that the extra R60 000 would be money well spent.

#baic
#BAICSA
#beijing
#beijingX55
#mediumsuv
#familysuv
#ValueSUV
#bargainSUV

[papafituae]

I just have to say, this was a really good review. If you increase slightly your quality of production i can see this channel really blowing up. Thank you from Dubai,

[gregsbestbest]

Thank you BAIC for keeping as many of the safety features, especially the number of airbags, standard across your range. You would think that manufacturers would want to keep their customers as safe as possible in the event of an accident, but some don't seem to care. I do wish reviewers would focus more on the safety features, the NCAP rating, how well the headlights of the vehicle work and whether it would blind other drivers.

[brucelee]

Hi Alan. Thanks for the video. I have been following your channel for quite some time. I really do enjoy your journalism and I relate with your personality and interests.

However, one thing that I do think can improve is camera stabilization. I do understand that cameras are expensive but there are great budget options that have active stabilization. It will make your content much more appealing to a broader audience and also it will just make it more pleasant to watch.

If you are using a phone to record your videos and your budget is very tight, you can get handheld grips that stabilize your phone.

But still, thanks a lot for your great content and objective journalism. Making South Africans proud.

[nigelnaicker]

I own the premium, its a fantastic car, however 1 correction to your video, the premium does not have front camera view, it just beeps when going forward and highlights when reversing. It is a fantastic drive, I drove the tiggo 4 and 7, this is head and shoulders ahead. Love my new car

Edit: Another correction, mood lighting is not on the dash, it's only on the door pads.

[Demertech]

This review would be infinitely better if half the information wasn't wrong. The premium gets real leather seats it's not just a color difference, the speakers go from 4 to 6 to 8 not from 2 to 4 to 6, the premium doesn't have a front camera or radar it has front radar PDC which is parking sensors, you don't get autonomous emergency braking or Adaptive Cruise control on the premium and you left out features such as tilting rear seats on the premium. Otherwise it's a good review, I'm hoping you'll review the new BIAC BEIJING X55 plus PREMIUM which has 540° cameras, a front radar, black leather instead of red, wireless charging, a 7 year warranty and some other features. Keep up the good work

[TheKnobCalledTone.]

The best thing about no-name Chinese cars is their safety... no self-respecting carjacker would be seen dead trying to take one of these. 🤣🤣

[gijuvarghese]

Hi..how do the safety feature compare with Haval top of the range i.e. auto braking, lane assists etc

[marcelosanchezfebles]

Hermosa SUV excelente por Baic saludos desde Buenos Aires Argentina

[thetad]

The hypocrisy of car reviewers. Hates the renault radio control stock behind the steering wheel, but has no issue with this Chinese old cruise control being a stock away from steering wheel. Ja swear

[kostap]

They all crap these Chinese brands... lots of tech and low price but after 2 yrs they will fall apart as per owners already complaining about build quality in the longer term...Cherry Havana Beijing no thanks