BAIC, the Chinese automaker, introduced its X55 crossover in Moscow, sharing official configurations and pricing that position the model for North American markets through a two-trim lineup. The presentation highlighted options designed to appeal to a broad audience—from buyers looking for essential convenience to those seeking enhanced comfort and safety technology. The X55’s entry into Russia signals BAIC’s broader regional expansion strategy and underscores confidence in the vehicle’s urban practicality blended with modern features. [BAIC press brief, 2024]
In Russia, the X55 is offered in two configurations. The Comfort variant is priced at 2,755,000 rubles and includes core features aligned with everyday driving needs: keyless entry for easy access, cruise control to ease long highway stretches, power windows for front and rear passengers, and front airbags as a basic safety foundation. Under the hood, buyers will find a 1.5-liter engine delivering 177 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed robotic transmission. This setup aims to deliver peppy performance while maintaining smooth urban drivability, with the drivetrain remaining front-wheel drive, a common arrangement for compact crossovers in this class. The Comfort trim prioritizes practical convenience and efficient operation for daily use, complemented by a compact footprint that assists with parking and navigating tight city streets. [BAIC Russia press materials, 2024]
The Elite version, positioned at 3,000,000 rubles, expands the X55’s appeal with a suite of enhancements crafted for a more premium experience. Inside, heated and ventilated seats provide comfort across seasons, paired with an electric tailgate for effortless cargo access. The Elite adds a broader safety and visibility package, including a full set of active safety features, front and side airbags, and a comprehensive surround-camera system that aids parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The styling is refined with larger 19-inch wheels, contributing to a more commanding road presence. Under the hood, the vehicle retains the same 1.5-liter engine with 177 horsepower and the same seven-speed robotic transmission, ensuring the Elite remains a front-wheel-drive crossover that emphasizes confident handling and consistent performance. The Elite’s shift toward comfort, convenience, and visibility aligns with BAIC’s strategy to offer a higher-tier option without altering the core drivetrain. [BAIC Russia press materials, 2024]
Historically, BAIC has pursued a competitive path in the global market by leveraging its diverse product lineup and strategic pricing. The X55’s entry into Russia follows a broader industry trend of automakers introducing new crossovers at accessible price points while expanding the feature set to meet evolving consumer expectations for safety, connectivity, and comfort. The mention of Aito as a former parent brand in this context points to cross-brand strategies within the corporate landscape, with potential implications for future models that may share platforms, engineering capabilities, or design language. For prospective buyers, the X55 represents a practical, well-equipped option in a segment where rivals frequently emphasize either cost efficiency or upscale aspiration. BAIC’s approach with the X55 in the European and Eurasian markets reflects a deliberate balance: deliver solid performance suitable for city and highway use, while layering in modern conveniences that elevate the ownership experience without straying from value-oriented pricing. The result is a crossover that aims to appeal to buyers seeking a contemporary, feature-rich vehicle at a favorable price point, alongside safety and usability features aligned with current expectations for family-oriented transport and daily commuting. [Industry analysis, 2024]