Is BAIC launching a new variant of B80 Wagon in PH?

Last year, BAIC Philippines distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) wowed everyone at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) when they officially brought back the BAIC brand. With it, the automaker now offers a wide array of frame-based 4x4s, as well as crossovers.

One of the vehicles that immediately stood out from the BAIC lineup is the B80 Wagon. Based on its namesake and design, the BAIC B80 Wagon appears to borrow heavily from the Mercedes-Benz G Wagen (AKA G-Class). With its boxy looks, body-on-frame construction, luxurious features, and a part-time 4WD system with a locking rear differential, the 3.0L turbocharged V6 SUV has plenty to offer.

Fast forward a year, and it looks like BAIC Philippines could be introducing a new variant of the B80 Wagon. This comes after the UAAGI recently received approval to bring a new passenger vehicle that's powered by a 2990cc gasoline engine. Based on the engine's displacement, it matches the exact engine size of the 3.0L turbo V6 that currently powers the B80 Wagon.

Also worth mentioning is the gross vehicle weight (GVW), which is at 2785 kg. A quick check at the B80 Wagon's GVW reveals it matches the mystery vehicle's gross vehicle weight that UAAGI recently got approval for. However, it's also worth noting that the current B80 Wagon only has a curb weight of 2285 kg. Meanwhile, the new passenger vehicle has a curb weight of over 2440 kg. This makes it quite heavier, which means it could come with more features than the regular B80 Wagon.

Other details about BAIC's newest vehicle remain a mystery. Given that it has already received regulatory approval, it could be launched in the upcoming months. The only question now is, will it be a new variant of the B80 Wagon or something else entirely from BAIC's model lineup?