BAIC Beijing Off-Road BJ40

My BAIC Beijing Off-Road BJ40 has a rounded, youth-friendly exterior blending boxy and stylish elements, scoring 90/100. The silver-gray color resists dirt better than black and avoids the plastic feel of white. After the latest OTA update, the infotainment system crashed once, resetting trip mileage and fuel consumption data. Only the right rearview mirror tilts down when reversing. The purchase process was smooth with transparent pricing—149,900 RMB before tax and around 160,000 RMB all-in with trade-in subsidy. Space suits my family of four; the trunk is slightly small but can be improved with a modified shelf. Power is good if you press the throttle. Eco mode is too sluggish, Sport offers better response (around 2500 RPM) but higher fuel consumption, while Comfort mode suffices for daily use. After 1000 km, actual fuel consumption is 13.5 L/100km (better than expected 15-16), with the system showing an optimistic 11 L/100km and the built-in driving assistant a more accurate 12.5. Overall satisfied, but hope the manufacturer optimizes the infotainment system to fix occasional crashes and startup lag, and adds more apps to the store.

I got my BAIC Beijing Off-Road BJ40 in September and have driven 6,500 km. Overall, I'm quite satisfied.

**Space**: Not its strong point. Front row is average; door pockets have limited storage. Rear seats are high with a small backrest angle, uncomfortable for long rides. Trunk is moderate, not enough for large items like a washing machine.

**Off-road capability**: Its advantage. About 3,000 km were off-roading in deserts, Gobi, and mountains. It has reliable mechanical quality and strong body rigidity, giving a sense of security. For desert driving, gasoline version is recommended as diesel needs more driving skills, relying on manual mode. Diesel delivers power after reaching 2,000 rpm, which is steady for climbing. Desert fuel consumption is around 15 L/100km.

**Modifications**: Replaced 3mm manganese steel skid plate with 10mm magnesium-aluminum one and stock bumpers with off-road bumpers, which are necessary. Aluminum roof rack looks good but has high wind noise. Plan to install oil-gas separated shock absorbers and lift the chassis by 2 inches later.

**Likes**: The tough exterior with matte black finish is perfect. Its off-road performance, safety, strong mechanical quality, good engine-transmission coordination, roll cage, and practical features like built-in dashcam, tire pressure monitoring, cruise control, and heated seats are satisfying.

**Dislikes**: The stock sound system is too low-quality and must be modified. Interior assembly quality is average with some gaps.

**Fuel consumption (diesel, comfort mode)**: Urban: 8.5-9 L/100km, national highway: 7.5-8 L/100km, highway: 10 L/100km, off-road: 15-20 L/100km.

The latest BAIC Beijing Off-Road BJ40 features a new powertrain: its 2.0T engine delivers 224 hp and 380 Nm, with 35 Nm more torque than the old 2.3T. It accelerates 0-100km/h in 9.71s (0.06s faster) and has lower fuel consumption at 10.6L/100km (vs 10.9L). The 8AT transmission upshifts actively for efficiency. However, the throttle is sensitive initially but weakens later, causing jerky starts. Steering is heavy at low speeds and light when driving. The suspension is stiff, transmitting more road impacts. Its part-time 4WD performs well, with electronic limited-slip intervening promptly in tough terrain. Rear legroom is tight (1 finger for 185cm passengers) but headroom is ample (4 fingers).