The BAIC B81 was officially shown at the Beijing Auto Show 2026 and it looks familiar.
At the 2026 Auto China (Beijing Auto Show), BAIC officially unveiled the B81, a high-end SUV that represents the next evolution of the brand’s military-vehicle lineage. Billed as a “tactical box car,” the B81 is a cornerstone of BAIC’s new “Build In Public” (BIP) manufacturing model—a user-centric approach designed to deliver the fuel efficiency and off-road capability that modern drivers demand.
Design: Military Heritage Meets G-Class Inspiration
The BAIC B81 draws heavily from the brand’s hardcore off-road heritage, maintaining the iconic boxy silhouette associated with old-school SUVs. While its predecessor, the B80, was well-known for its similarities to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the B81 offers a more refined, distinctive take on that aesthetic.
Key design elements include:
- Distinctive Front End: Features a signature five-slot grille and a prominent hood scoop.
- Refined Accents: Unique side window designs and specialized six-spoke alloy wheels.
- Modern Hardcore Aesthetic: A “toned down” exterior that balances the prestige of the three-pointed star’s influence with BAIC’s own tactical identity.
Powertrain: The Shift to Electrified Performance
The most significant departure from previous generations is the B81’s move toward electrification. To address the demand for efficient yet capable 4x4s, BAIC has engineered the B81 as an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV).
While official technical figures are pending, BAIC has confirmed several high-performance features:
- Dual Electric Motors: Providing instant torque and responsive power delivery.
- ICE Generator: The system is expected to utilize a turbocharged engine specifically to recharge a high-capacity battery, ensuring long-distance viability.
- Unhindered 4WD: Despite the shift to electric power, the B81 remains a true off-roader, equipped with three locking differentials (front, center, and rear) to maintain its “hardcore” status.
What do you think of the G-Class inspired SUV from BAIC? Does it have a place in Malaysia or do you think that BAIC as a brand should probably not bother with out market given how crowded it has gotten.
