In 2024, BAIC plans to bring two new off-road models to Russia, as confirmed by company representatives. The move signals an expansion of the Chinese automaker’s lineup in the market and aims to broaden the portfolio beyond the domestic gasoline option currently on sale in Russia.
The first introduction is the BJ40, a mid-size diesel-powered SUV that is slated to enter Russian showrooms in the first half of the year. In its Chinese specification, the two-liter diesel engine develops 163 horsepower and 380 Newton-meters of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The BJ40 will continue to feature a full-time all-wheel-drive system, including a reduction gear and differential locks, attributes that underscore its off-road capability. At present, Russian customers can only purchase the BJ40 in gasoline form, with entry prices around 4.4 million rubles. The arrival of the diesel variant is expected to broaden the model’s appeal to buyers who prioritize torque for challenging terrain and towing needs, while potentially offering improved efficiency in highway driving compared with the gas engine.
Following close on its heels is the larger BJ60 model, which is anticipated to hit dealer floors toward the end of the subsequent year. In China, the BJ60’s powertrain options include a diesel engine equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid starter generator that delivers 163 horsepower and 400 Newton-meters of torque, alongside a gasoline engine producing 266 horsepower and 406 Newton-meters. For the Russian market, both BJ60 and BJ40 are planned to be assembled at Avtotor in Kaliningrad, reflecting the brand’s strategy to localize production for better supply and service support, as well as to navigate import duties and logistics more efficiently. This local assembly approach typically translates to shorter delivery times for customers and easier access to after-sales service networks, which are crucial factors in the SUV segment where maintenance and parts availability significantly influence ownership costs and satisfaction.
The broader context behind BAIC’s introduction of these models in Russia includes the push to diversify the regional lineup with capable, value-oriented SUVs that can handle a range of road conditions and climates. The BJ40 has established a reputation for ruggedness in many markets, and its diesel variant in Russia could be a compelling option for drivers who encounter tougher off-road duties or who place a premium on fuel economy and low-end torque. Meanwhile, the BJ60 would likely position BAIC as a more formidable player against other mid-size and full-size SUVs that blend luxury cues with practical performance. The Kaliningrad assembly site is strategically located, enabling the company to supply western Russia efficiently and perhaps to explore additional export opportunities in neighboring markets.
Industry observers will be watching how BAIC tailors the BJ40 and BJ60 for local road laws, consumer preferences, and the competitive landscape. The inclusion of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system on the BJ60 reflects a broader trend toward electrified assist in traditional combustion engines, offering modest gains in efficiency and smoother operation without committing to full electrification. These moves also align with regulatory pressures and consumer demand for cleaner, more economical propulsion options, while still delivering the performance and reliability expected from capable off-road vehicles. The transition to local assembly marks a notable step in BAIC’s long-term strategy to strengthen its footprint in Russia and the wider region, ensuring better pricing stability, more responsive service networks, and a clearer pathway for future model updates.
Overall, 2024 marks a pivotal year for BAIC in Russia as the brand expands its SUV family, introduces diesel variants with enhanced torque characteristics, and leverages Kaliningrad-based production to support a growing customer base. The rollout is positioned to offer buyers more choices that combine rugged capability with practical daily usability, backed by the support infrastructure that comes with local assembly and regional parts availability. As plans unfold, potential buyers will be keenly focused on pricing, real-world fuel economy, and the practicalities of maintenance and after-sales service for the new BJ40 and BJ60 lines, with expectations for competitive warranty terms and strong dealer support.”