BAIC Beijing U5 PLUS

The BEIJING U5 PLUS has a fresh and sporty exterior with a large grille, unique mesh pattern, thick chrome strip connecting LED headlights, and sharp boomerang-shaped daytime running lights. Its low-slung front gives a youthful vibe. The side features two dynamic waistlines, 16-inch two-tone wheels, and two-tone mirrors, creating a simple yet sporty look. With dimensions of 4660mm in length, 1820mm in width, 1480mm in height, and a 2670mm wheelbase, it's a compact sedan with a small and approachable design. The rear has a layered look, a贯穿式 taillight with 122 LED sources, and dynamic turn signals. The interior follows a简约 style with mostly搪塑 materials, and a 7-inch instrument cluster combined with a 12.3-inch touchscreen for a tech-savvy feel. The hollow center armrest is convenient for storage. It offers a comfortable ride with front integrated sports seats made of premium perforated leather, which are moderately soft and breathable. The rear seats also provide good comfort, with ample legroom and an almost flat floor. In terms of features, it comes with the Car-Line smartphone connectivity system supporting navigation, voice control, and music. Safety features include 6 standard airbags, 360-degree panoramic影像, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and low-speed dynamic object recognition. The tested尊贵型 is powered by a 1.5L engine and CVT transmission, delivering 83kW of maximum power and 142Nm of peak torque, suitable for daily use with an official fuel consumption of 5.9L per 100km. A 1.5T model is also available.

The BAIC Beijing U5 PLUS, an upgraded compact car from Beijing Auto, features a distinctive family design with a large grille, chrome-connected headlights, C-pillar triangular windows enhancing side visuals, and a贯穿式 taillight. Its interior stands out with standard dual screens for a tech-savvy feel, a wraparound dashboard with simulated leather stitching, and good front visibility with A-pillar windows reducing blind spots. The sub-80,000 RMB base model lacks a sunroof, height-adjustable driver's seat, halogen headlights, and manual AC but offers practical features like reverse camera, leather seats, keyless entry/start, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, cruise control, and navigation. Front seats, though with good lateral support, may be tight for larger individuals; the non-adjustable height in the base model causes headroom issues for taller drivers (185cm). Rear space is average, with adjustable headrests for all three seats. It offers 113hp 1.5L (5MT/CVT) and 150hp 1.5T (CVT) engines. Overall, it's a cost-effective home car with appealing design, rich tech, sufficient space and power, ideal for under 100,000 RMB buyers.

My test drive of the BAIC Beijing U5 PLUS was with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine paired with a CVT transmission. The power delivery is steady and linear, ideal for new drivers. The steering is light, easy for female drivers. The suspension, with front MacPherson and rear torsion beam, is tuned for comfort, handling bumps smoothly though slightly loose. Inside, the standard 7-inch LCD instrument cluster and 12.3-inch central control screen (2K resolution, Corning Gorilla glass) offer tech appeal, supporting Car-Line phone integration. High-quality soft materials and heated front seats enhance comfort. Safety features include 6 airbags, 360° panoramic影像, BSD, LDW, and Bosch 9.3 ESP. Rear legroom is good but headroom is tight. The 430L trunk is规整 for practical use.