BAIC New Zealand Launch Builds Pace as Pricing and Dealers Confirmed

Auckland, 27th February 2026

• Launch pricing of new BAIC models released today
• X55 and B30 available from $34,990 + ORC and $39,990 + ORC respectively
• Seven Sales and Service outlets ready to showcase the range and support customers
• New models now available for ordering and test drives

The launch of the new BAIC marque in New Zealand took a major step forward today, with the release of new model pricing, as well as information regarding accessories, details of the dealer network, finance partner and warranty.

The news coincided with the official availability of new BAIC models for ordering and test drives.

“Key to today’s announcement is that all new models in the range will benefit from a special launch offer which will see a $3,000 reduction applied until June 1,” said Simon Rutherford, CEO Auto Distribution Holdings Limited.

“This means the price of the new X55 will be $34,990 with the B30 range starting at $39,990.  These are unbelievable price points for specification rich and supremely comfortable, confident and capable new models which will be right at home in New Zealand.

“BAIC has almost 70-years of engineering experience, is established in more than 90 countries around the world and has enjoyed recent award-winning success in righthand drive markets such as South Africa, Indonesia and Malaysia.

“Now it’s our turn to experience the quality and prowess of these acclaimed, accessible and competitively positioned SUV’s.”

BAIC Group is a Fortune 500 company and boasts leading capabilities in product R&D and manufacturing. Its R&D network covers seven locations across five countries, and it has established Vehicle and KD factories in over 30 countries and regions. BAIC Group has manufacturing partnerships with Mercedes Benz and Hyundai in China and is the biggest single shareholder of Mercedes-Benz, highlighting its strong ties and global influence.

The X55 mid-size SUV is the ideal choice for active families, delivering the perfect mix of excitement, power, technology and value.

It features a captivating design complemented by a luxurious interior and a lighting signature which creates the ultimate urban chic statement. Features such as ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, 360-degree camera and power tailgate are all available as standard.

It is powered by a powerful 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine (138kW/ 305Nm) and features a 10.1-inch Central control screen and 10.25-inch LCD instrument screen, Wireless phone connection and a full black interior and is available in a choice of six exterior colours. The overall look is completed by LED headlights, daytime running lights and taillights and sporty twin tailpipe exhausts.

“At $34,990 + ORC, the X55 overdelivers in terms of performance and premium features,” said Mr Rutherford. It offers features and capabilities expected of a larger SUV for small-SUV money.”

The B30 is available in three variants – Elite Adventure, Premium Adventure HEV and Premium Adventure HEV All-Wheel Drive – and is the smart alternative when it comes to venturing off the beaten track.

It features the same powerful 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine as the X55, with the additional option of a Hybrid EV powertrain available in 2WD and AWD. The Hybrid powertrain boosts power to 301kw and 685nm of torque.

Its chunky, off-road orientated appearance provides a visual indicator to its all-wheel drive prowess and a pointer towards its ‘happy place.’

“It is an adventure SUV which is most at home when out and about exploring yet provides its occupants with the peace of mind knowing they haven’t compromised between comfort, safety and capability,” said Mr Rutherford.

“Nothing at this price point comes close to matching its credentials, it’s a bone-fide off-roader with 215mm ground clearance, 600mm wading depth, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, a 25° approach and 30° departure angle as well as Mud, Sand and Wading drive modes.

“It features a tough chassis with a long wheelbase for stability and added surefootedness, offering real ability without the trade-offs often associated with large off-roading machines.

“The B30 is the most capable medium-size SUV you could ever wish for and is the perfect alternative between a car and truck with outstanding utility matched with everyday comfort.”

Safety
From a safety standpoint, both the X55 and B30 feature six airbags, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including Blind Spot Detection, Intelligent Cruise Assist, Lane Departure Warning (X55) or Lane Keep Assist (B30), Autonomous Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning. The combination of all active and passive safety features delivers a five-star VSRR score for both models.

Accessories
“We’re thrilled to announce the new BAIC models will be launching with a variety of attractive and practical accessories, all of which will be available with a special launch price through to June 1,” said Mr Rutherford.

“This creates an outstanding opportunity for new BAIC owners to personalise their vehicle to their individual tastes, either from a form and function perspective or simply to make their new ride stand out in the carpark with a distinctive appearance.”

Many of the accessories are ‘adventure-orientated’ and support the offroad proposition promised by the new models. These include a roof platform, roof side ladder, side window extension rack, roof storage box and side awning.

Electric running boards and nitrogen shock absorber, together with the availability of a front engine guard as well as rear motor guard, add to further practicality and enhance functionality.

Dealer Network
The BAIC range of vehicles will initially be available at seven different locations around the country, including Armstong’s BAIC dealerships in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Additional sites are Takanini Auto Group (172 Great South Rd, Takanini), Auckland Auto Group 283 Albany Highway), Waikato Auto Group (860 Te Rapa Rd, Hamilton) and Tauranga Motor Group (389 Cameron Rd, Tauranga).

“Although we have 65% of the market covered at launch, we will continue to expand our dealer network, especially into the South Island to ensure everyone can easily access the brand for sales and service,” said Mr Rutherford.

“We have lofty aspirations for the brand and are confident that we can develop an extensive nationwide network as we grow the product offering to serve the interests of BAIC owners well into the future.”

Finance Partner
To help make pathways to ownership easier, UDC has been selected as the Finance Partner of choice for BAIC in New Zealand.

“UDC has almost 90-years’ experience in the local market and is the country’s largest non-bank lender,” said Mr Rutherford. They will be a great partner to have alongside the brand and help deliver new BAIC models to Kiwi families across the nation.”

Warranty and Servicing
All models in the BAIC range come with a seven-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty as standard and, in the case of the B30e, feature an eight year/ unlimited kilometre hybrid battery warranty. In addition, a seven-year roadside assistance package is standard.

The service intervals on the X55 and B30 is one-year/ 10,000km (whichever occurs first), and BAIC Service Plans are also available over three, four and five years.

“Offering such a comprehensive warranty and servicing programme demonstrates that BAIC is confident in its product quality and here for the long haul,” said Mr Rutherford.

“Overall, we are super-excited to be bringing BAIC to New Zealand and can’t wait for Kiwis to get behind the wheel and experience these incredible new products for themselves.”