THE BAIC B60 BEAUMONT IS BOTH DAPPER AND DARING

Filipinos, much like many car browsers around the world, tend to go for crossovers or SUVs.

- KAP MACEDA AGUILA

Among the nearly universal tenets that attract them to this mobility form factor are elevated ride height, space for both passengers and their gear, and sedan-like accoutrements—the latter particularly true for more modern examples.

The Beijing Automotive Group Co., Ltd., more commonly known as BAIC, is a major brand going all in on SUVs that are positioned as "true 4x4 models" with "genuine off-road capabilities and strong yet fuel-efficient diesel engines." BAIC is one of the top five auto manufacturers in China and sells vehicles in more than 50 countries. The company said that it has sold more than 34 million vehicles.

In the Philippines, the brand is overseen by United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI), which positions BAIC as appropriate for executives and entrepreneurs who have active lifestyles, and are in need of "large, spacious, and high-riding diesel-powered SUVs for out of town trips." The target demographic also includes Millennials and Gen Zs—expected to particularly like the design language of BAIC.

Among the first salvo of products that BAIC Philippines released formally at this year's Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last April is the B60 Beaumont. Like its B40 and B80 siblings, it boasts of a body-on-frame set-up, said to be a hallmark of "true SUVs," according to BAIC Philippines.

Body-on-frame vehicles lend themselves better to negotiating uneven terrain—such as those encountered when off-roading—because they offer more resistance to less-than-pristine surfaces. Other benefits include enabling greater towing capacity and enhanced overall ruggedness.