This is the final production version of the Borgward BX5 SUV for China, looking very racy in fiery red with a big black grille and sharp eyed headlights. The BX5 will be launched on the Chinese car market on March 24. Price will range from about 120.000 to 180.000 yuan.
The BX5 will be the second car of the Borgward brand. This first was the BX7 which was launched in May last year.
Borgward is 100% owned by China’s Foton Motor, a subsidiary of the Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (BAIC). Foton Motor (web) is a commercial-vehicle manufacturer that is now moving into passenger cars.
There will be two engines available: a 1.8 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 190hp and 280nm and a 1.4 turbo with 140hp and 240nm. Later on a 1.4 turbo hybrid will join the lineup with a massive output of 253hp and 453nm.
The 1.8 turbo will be mated to a six-speed automatic, the 1.4 turbo to a seven-speed DCT.
Size: 4483/1876/1677, and wheelbase is 2685.
Dash is nice but rather dark. The instrument panel is very analogue and the standing touch screen seems to be a 10 incher.
Loads of buttons and a big knob on the center tunnel, backed up by two cup holders. Beige leather looks very nice.
The pronounced shoulder line gives the BX5 a sporty stance. Roof rails appear to be usable.
An early BX5 bird at the dealer.