The second generation BAIC BJ40 is an off-road body-on-frame SUV that adopts some modern-standard features like a twin screen inside the cabin, LED lights, self-driving functions, etc. It is a midsize SUV with 245 hp and 4WD. It was officially revealed in China. Moreover, it will hit presales on August 25. Let’s get to know the BAIC BJ40 better.
First, we will remind you that the first generation BJ40 is a body-on frame SUV that sells not only in China but also in various overseas markets. In terms of exterior design, it stays close to the Jeep Wrangler. And it isn’t a surprise, since BAIC is well-known for its BJ80 SUV which is a copycat of the one and only Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The BJ40 was initially a popular vehicle in the domestic market. However, quite a lot of its competitors have hit the market recently. As a result, its cumulative sales reached 11,476 units in 2023. For a comparison, the sales number of the Tank 300 for the same period is over 53,000 units. So, the BJ40 clearly needed a new generation. And here it is.
New generation BAIC BJ40
The second-generation BAIC BJ40 adopts the brand’s latest design language that was introduced by BJ60 last year. It has a rectangular headlights and a grille with LED elements. So, it is no more a Jeep Wrangler copycat. The BAIC BJ40 has got blocky proportions, a high bonnet line, frameless doors, big side view mirrors, huge bumpers and a lot of plastic trim in the lower part of the body. Another detail of the BJ40 is a tailgate made of two elements. The upper one is actually a rear windshield that flips up. As for a lower part, it is a swing-out tailgate with a spare wheel mounted on it.
Speaking about dimensions of the BAIC BJ40, they are 4790/1940/1895 mm and a wheelbase of 2760. As mentioned, it is a body-on-frame SUV. Previously, the Chinese regulator (MIIT) even released photos of the naked frame of the BJ40. It looked quite similar to the frame of the BJ60. What is interesting that it can tow up to 2500 kg.
Inside, the BAIC BJ40 turns out to be the most modern-looking SUV from BAIC. It has a digital instrument panel that sits behind the thee-spoke round steering wheel that is borrowed from the BJ60. But the main feature of the BJ40 is twin screen that is ‘floating’ above the center console. The first monitor here is a center control touch screen for the driver. As for the second one, it is dedicated to the front passenger. The diameter of these screens is unknown. However, they look quite massive. Under the screens, we can see the climate control panel with air vents. As for the center tunnel, it has a wireless charging pad, some physical buttons, a retractable gear selector and a pair of cup holders. Worth mentioning that the interior of the BJ40 has 5-seat layout.
Powertrain and pre-sales date
The BAIC BJ40 is an off-road SUV with a 2-liter turbocharged engine manufactured by HYCET. This ICE has a twin scroll turbocharger, 350 bar injection, integrated exhaust manifold, etc. It meets China VIb emissions standard. The power output of this engine reaches 245 hp and 385 Nm. The only drawback of this ICE is its weight that reaches 153 kg. It works in pair with 8AT. As for the drive type, it is part-time 4WD.
The BAIC BJ40 will hit pre-sales in China at the Chengdu Auto Show on August 25. It will become a direct competitor of the current sales leader among body-on-frame off-roaders in China, the Tank 300. Bearing it in mind, its price tag should lie in 200,000 – 300,000 yuan (27,660 – 41,490 USD) range. We will keep an eye on this vehicle, so stay tuned!
