Doubts surround Argentina's best-selling Chinese SUV: it's hybrid and costs $35,800

The BAIC BJ30 SUV has become the top-selling Chinese vehicle in Argentina, registering 3306 units and capturing 1.4% of the market. This success, however, is shadowed by significant doubts regarding its advertised performance.

The SUV is available in two hybrid versions: a 4x2 model priced at $35,800 and a 4WD variant at $42,500. Both share a platform, dimensions, and a base engine, but differ in drivetrain, total power, and features. The vehicles measure 4.73 meters long and 1.91 meters wide, with a 2.82-meter wheelbase and 215mm ground clearance.

Mechanically, the BJ30 combines a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with electric assistance. The 4x2 version claims a combined 300 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption of 5.85 liters per 100 kilometers. The 4WD model boasts a higher output of 404 horsepower and 685 Nm of torque, featuring all-wheel drive and terrain modes for snow, sand, mud, and ice. Its declared consumption is 6.45 liters per 100 kilometers.

However, a significant controversy surrounds the vehicle's power figures. Mechanics have reported that the actual output is considerably lower than the advertised numbers. "It claims over 400 horsepower, but in reality, it's closer to 240 HP, even with fully charged batteries and combining the combustion engine with electric power," stated the head mechanic of a major automotive entity.

Despite these performance concerns, the BJ30 offers a comfortable interior with leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone climate control. It also features advanced safety and convenience options, including USB ports, a 12V socket, a 220V outlet in the trunk, and eight speakers. The suspension system includes McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link independent setup at the rear, with disc brakes on all wheels.

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It claims over 400 horsepower, but the reality is that it's closer to 240 HP, even with fully charged batteries and combining the combustion engine with electric power.