In case you missed it, yet another new Chinese model has just landed on our shores, this time courtesy of BAIC: the B30e Dune. The hybrid 4x4 SUV was launched last week, but before that, we were given the chance to take it out for a quick spin.
To be completely honest, I wasn’t expecting much from the SUV before I saw it in the metal. See, I’ve driven a few BAIC models, and there wasn’t any that really made a lasting impression, at least in terms of driving dynamics and the overall experience.
The B30e Dune, however, is a far cry from all of those. It’s sleek and stylish, with striking looks that are very hard to miss on the road. Not to mention the quirky colorway in the unit we were able to try out. It’s a looker, that’s for sure.
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The inside is very impressive, I have to say, with a cabin that gives off a very premium vibe. It still doesn’t compare to European luxury cars, for example, but it’s a lot better than what some affordable Japanese vehicles have to offer. The interior feels solid and well-built, and there’s also plenty of space for five passengers and some cargo.
There are also safety and driver-assist features available, and while I wasn’t able to use them extensively just yet and tell how seamless they are to use, it’s already a good sign that BAIC bothered equip the B30e Dune with such tech.
But that’s not where the ‘tech’ part ends, because the B30e Dune—as probably implied by the badge—packs a hybrid powertrain. With a total of 403hp and 685Nm on tap for the 4x4 variant, it’s got more than enough pulling power. I could also tell through our short bursts around the small subdivision that this engine would let the car stretch its legs quite nicely on open expressways. But once we do take it out for a proper review, what we’ll keep an eye on will be its fuel economy, because it should supposedly be good for a large SUV like this.
Frankly, I couldn’t find anything glaring yet that I know is worth complaining about, so I’ll stop here. Instead, I’ll direct you to the full video we made for the BAIC B30e Dune—you might get more insights from there. Click play on the embedded video below to watch the entire thing.
