BAIC BJ30: Why It's Argentina's Best-Selling Chinese Car and Its Price

The BAIC BJ30 SUV has become the top-selling Chinese vehicle in Argentina, registering 3,306 units and capturing 1.4% of the market share so far this year. This success highlights the growing presence of Chinese automotive brands in the Argentine market.

Offered in two hybrid versions, the BJ30 starts at $35,800 for the 1.5T 4x2 model and goes up to $42,500 for the 1.5T 4WD variant. Both versions share a platform, dimensions, and a base engine, but differ in drivetrain, total power, and some features. The SUV measures 4.73 meters long and offers a five-seat configuration.

Mechanically, the BJ30 combines a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with electric assistance. The 4x2 version claims a combined power of 300 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption of 5.85 liters per 100 kilometers. The 4WD variant boasts higher figures, with 404 horsepower and 685 Nm of torque, featuring all-wheel drive and specific off-road modes, consuming 6.45 liters per 100 kilometers.

However, a significant controversy surrounds the vehicle's power output. Despite official claims, mechanics from major Argentine automotive entities report that the actual horsepower is considerably lower than advertised. One chief mechanic stated that the vehicle, even with fully charged batteries, produces closer to 240 horsepower, a stark contrast to the claimed over 400 horsepower.

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It declares something over 400 horsepower, but the reality is that it is close to 240 HP, with the batteries at 100% and combining the horsepower of the combustion engine with the electric ones.