A little extra cash gets you a whole lot more comfort. BAIC’s new X55 Premium Hybrid has arrived in New Zealand, bringing a bigger helping of bells, whistles and creature comforts for just $3,000 more than the Elite.
Just when you thought the BAIC X55 Hybrid range had enough to offer, along comes another one with a little more of everything. Meet the new X55 Premium Hybrid, the range-topping addition to BAIC’s New Zealand SUV line-up, and one that makes a rather compelling argument for spending a little extra.
Following the recent arrival of the X55 Elite Hybrid, BAIC has now rolled out the Premium Hybrid to its 14 dealerships nationwide. And while the name might suggest a significant jump in price, the reality is considerably more appealing.
The X55 Elite Hybrid starts at $39,990 + ORC, while the new Premium Hybrid comes in at a launch offer of $42,990 + ORC. That’s just $3,000 between them – which, considering the additional equipment, could make the decision rather interesting.
So, what does that extra three grand buy you?
More premium, more practical, more panoramic
The X55 Premium Hybrid takes the already generous Elite specification and adds a collection of features designed to make everyday driving that little bit more luxurious.
There’s a panoramic sunroof to bring more light into the cabin, roof racks for those lifestyle adventures, and a powered tailgate with sensor operation for when your hands are full (because juggling shopping bags while trying to open a boot is nobody’s idea of fun).
Inside, the driver gets memory seat settings, while both front occupants benefit from heated and ventilated seating. There’s also rear seat angle adjustment, adding another layer of comfort for passengers who would rather relax than complain about the journey.
It’s a fairly comprehensive upgrade, and one that gives the Premium a more upmarket feel without wandering too far beyond the Elite’s price bracket.
The panoramic roof helps create a brighter, more spacious cabin environment, while the heated and ventilated front seats should prove particularly welcome as New Zealand works its way through everything from frosty winter mornings to those increasingly sweaty summer afternoons.
In other words, BAIC has focused on the bits you’ll actually appreciate when living with the vehicle, rather than simply adding another shiny badge.
Hybrid power with a clever approach
Under the bonnet, the X55 Premium Hybrid retains the same 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain as the Elite.
It produces a combined peak output of 160kW and 310Nm of torque, while returning a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.8L/100km.
BAIC’s RE-HEV technology uses the battery to power the electric motors at low and medium speeds, with energy recovery during coasting helping replenish the battery. At higher speeds, the petrol engine drives a generator to supply the electric motor and recharge the battery.
The result is a system designed to deliver strong acceleration from a standstill, responsive performance and a quieter, smoother driving experience.
It’s an interesting approach to hybrid motoring, prioritising the smooth and immediate response of electric drive while retaining a petrol engine to provide energy when required. And with 310Nm on tap, the X55 shouldn’t feel short of motivation when the traffic lights turn green.
Technology and safety aren’t forgotten
Both X55 Hybrid models share a contemporary digital environment, with a 12.3-inch central control touchscreen paired with a 10.25-inch LCD instrument display.
The dashboard and centre console adopt a futuristic, almost spaceship-inspired design, complete with smart digital displays and a layout intended to give the cabin a modern feel.
Safety equipment includes Emergency Brake Assist, ABS with EBD, Hill Assist, Hill Descent Control and Electronic Stability Program functions.
Keyless entry and remote start are also standard across the X55 range, adding a little everyday convenience to the package. And there’s another rather significant inclusion: BAIC backs all its X55 models sold in New Zealand with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. That’s a reassuring ownership proposition, particularly for buyers looking beyond the initial purchase price.
Is the Premium worth the extra?
With just $3,000 separating the two Hybrid variants, the new X55 Premium Hybrid makes a pretty convincing case for itself.
The Elite already brings plenty to the table, but the Premium adds the sort of features that can make a genuine difference to everyday ownership – ventilated and heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate and driver memory settings being the obvious highlights.
For buyers who are particularly price-conscious, the Elite remains an attractive proposition at $39,990 + ORC. But for those who enjoy a little more luxury and convenience, the Premium’s additional specification looks like money reasonably well spent.
The new BAIC X55 Premium Hybrid is available now from all 14 BAIC dealerships around New Zealand, priced from $42,990 + ORC as part of the range launch offer.
The X55 Elite Hybrid remains available from $39,990 + ORC.
Sometimes the difference between good and better really is just three grand. And in this case, BAIC has made sure that extra money buys more than just a posher name.
