How the BAIC B60 Beaumont goes from rugged to richness
In most places, full-sized SUVs are often used for off-roading and challenging trails. But in the urban jungle of Metro Manila, where traffic congestion and unpredictable road conditions are daily challenges, the BAIC B60 Beaumont Diesel Hybrid emerges as a unique option for drivers seeking both power and style.
While we already have the usual suspects of SUVs from Japan, US, and Europe, the BAIC B60 Beaumont Diesel Hybrid from Chinese carmaker BAIC offers a well-rounded SUV that combines rugged performance with refined comfort. The B60 Beaumont somewhat reminds me of a larger, tougher-looking Toyota Land Cruiser or a more graceful version of the Ford Bronco, but the B60 Beaumont distinguishes itself from SUVs in its segment by embodying a modernized take on offroad vehicle design. It is sizeable and dominating, with a military-grade toughness that blends with an aura of luxury.
Its squared-off body lines, LED lighting signatures, and sharply defined contours evoke a more angular, tech-forward aesthetic. The front fascia features a unique five-hole grille, giving it a distinct identity, while chrome accents and a panoramic sunroof contribute to a sense of upscale utility.
Under the hood, the B60 Beaumont boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering 163 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This powertrain is mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts.
Inside is where the B60 Beaumont goes from rugged to richness. The cabin looks luxurious with many user-oriented features. The front seats are equipped with aviation-style headrests and thigh extension cushions. Apart from the B60 Beaumont’s generous legroom and trunk space, the panoramic sunroof adds an airy feel to the spacious seven-seater interior.
Navigating Metro Manila’s traffic-laden roads, I enjoyed using the B60 Beaumont’s “adaptive cruise control” and “traffic jam assist” features to have a more relaxed driving experience. The vehicle’s responsive steering make maneuvering through tight city streets manageable, while its elevated ride height (215 mm ground clearance) offers a commanding view of the road while making me feel confident in case I encounter potholes or road bumps. One downside of the B60 Beaumont’s military and off-road DNA is that its rigid frame translates to a stiffer, bumpier ride (which I felt even while driving through the city’s highways).
While I didn’t have the opportunity to try all the driving modes, I noticed that the B60 Beaumont had nine of them (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock, and Wading) to adapt to various driving conditions from city streets to off-road adventures. It is also equipped with a 540-degree panoramic camera system to aid in navigating challenging environments.
Apart from driving, I also enjoyed being chauffeured in the B60 Beaumont. The rear seats are roomy (giving me a comfortable space to work on my laptop while in traffic), and offer conveniences such as a large middle armrest with a built-in storage and cupholders, an electric plug socket (where I could plug-in my laptop), and charging outlets that accommodate both USB and C-cables. Seatbelts are, however, compulsory even in the rear seats because the B60 Beaumont will keep giving-off beeping sounds until passengers are buckled-up.
Enhancing the cabin experience is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The four-screen infotainment integration system supports smartphone mirroring, wireless charging, and a 12+1 Infinity speaker system with active noise cancellation, providing an immersive audio experience.
The best value proposition of the B60 Beaumont, in my opinion, is its fuel-efficiency as a hybrid. It can run approximately 11.76 kilometers per liter, which is impressive for its size and off-road capabilities. The B60 Beaumont’s 85-liter fuel tank capacity allows for extended driving ranges, making it suitable for long-distance travel.
With advanced features and adaptable driving modes, I can see how the B60 Beaumont can be a suitable companion for both the urban jungle of Metro Manila and the diverse landscapes of out-of-town getaways. Whether you’re going off-roading or seeking to arrive in style at a formal event, the B60 Beaumont is an SUV that can easily switch its vibe from rugged to richness.
