JM Baodian

When I first bought the JM Baodian, its handling and power were better than the old model. The fuel consumption was over 8L/100km on highways and 11-12L/100km at low speeds. However, the fault light came on at 5,000 km and again at around 15,000 km. After the 4S shop flashed the computer, the fuel consumption increased, but the staff said it was normal. The steering wheel makes abnormal noises, and the volume button occasionally malfunctions, which the 4S shop didn't fix. Now, when carrying heavy loads or under stress, there is an abnormal "stealing rotation" noise when the clutch is almost fully released. This happens occasionally when pressing the clutch pedal to that critical point during acceleration or deceleration, but it's fine when the clutch is fully released.

In China's pickup truck industry, the JM Baodian is a classic, consistently ranking high in sales for 20 years. My friend and I test-drove it recently. Its dimensions are 5345/1835/1782mm with a 3085mm wheelbase. For a 175cm person, front headroom is one fist and legroom four fingers; rear headroom is one fist and three fingers, legroom over two fists, very comfortable. The large cargo bed is highly practical. It has a 1.8T engine (177hp, 280N.m) mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Power is good: no sluggish start, smooth output, quick throttle response, fast acceleration, easy overtaking, no gearshift jolts, and handles uphill with a full load easily. Drawbacks: average configuration, lots of plastic in the interior, loud noise due to diesel engine, need to note diesel grade in cold winters to avoid frozen fuel pipes, and the vehicle is a bit bulky, making driving slightly difficult.

I previously considered Wuling Zhengtu and Wuling Rongguang New Truck but gave them up due to the 90-degree rear backrest, small rear space, and no discounts for Zhengtu, and the same backrest issue, fabric seats even in high configuration, and too high cargo box for New Truck. A friend recommended JM Baodian, which has decades of quality. I visited the 4S store, was satisfied, and paid a deposit with discounts. Pros: sufficient power with 2.5T diesel, running at 120km/h on the highway at around 2500 rpm; DPF automatically cleans when carbon load reaches 100% without manual operation; good 4S service; got foot mats and privacy film as gifts. Cons: third gear is a bit hard to engage;隔音 is good for four doors but lacks at the rear windshield.