First look at the new BAIC B30 in South Africa – Photos

The new BAIC B30 made its public debut at the Festival of Motoring this weekend, where we were given a breakdown of the car’s technical specifications.

The B30 is the Chinese automaker’s latest off-road SUV, showcasing the brand’s latest design language.

It is scheduled to launch in South Africa this November with a lineup consisting of four models – including a hybrid.

BAIC has already provided the indicative pricing for the new SUV, which is expected to start somewhere around R550,000 for the base model, and up to R700,000 for the flagship all-wheel-drive hybrid.

Checking out the new B30

Visually, the B30 stands out on account of its striking front lighting arrangement, which uses a series of LED light strips that form a circular pattern.

This lighting signature dominates the front end with only a small grille opening above the large off-road bumper, and comparatively minute BAIC lettering on the bonnet.

It measures 4,730mm in length, 1,910mm in width, and 1,7900m in height, making it comparable to midsize SUVs like the Toyota Rav4 and VW Tiguan.

The wheelbase is 2,820mm long, and it has 215mm of ground clearance – thanks in part to a set of 18 or 19-inch two-tone alloy rims.

It also an approach, break-over, and departure angle of 25, 21, and 30 degrees, respectively.

Regarding the powertrain, the B30 will be offered with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with and without hybrid assistance.

The non-electrified models produce 138kW and 305Nm, while the hybrid gains pair of electric motors placed over each axle.

The front e-motor generates 130kW and 315Nm, while the rear e-motor puts out 55kW and 135Nm.

Combined with the combustion engine, the SUV develops an impressive 301kW and 685Nm.

The standard models also feature a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, while the electrified units have a dedicated hybrid transmission.

The display model at the festival also gave us our first look at some of the equipment that will be included, such as a digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch floating infotainment screen, a large leather multifunction steering wheel, electric seats, leather upholstery, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad, and a panoramic sunroof.

One other important detail to know is that the B30 will be assembled right here in South Africa.

The manufacturer confirmed that the SUV will be built at its local factory in Coega on the outskirts of Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, though it has yet to reveal when this will happen.

BAIC B30 at the 2025 Festival of Motoring