Roughly two and
half years after introducing the 510 in China, Baojun has given its smallest
SUV the first significant updates. The main modification regards the
replacement of the automated manual gearbox with a continuously variable transmission
(CVT). The new transmission is paired with the same 1.5-liter naturally
aspirated engine, which however has slightly different power and torque
figures.
The engine is now
rated at 105 PS, with a peak torque of 135 Nm produced between 3,600 and 5,200 rpm. With the previously-available five-speed
automated manual transmission, the 510’s unit delivered 111 PS and 147
Nm.
According to
Baojun, the new ‘box comes with Standard, Economy and Sport modes. Thanks to
the continuous speed ratio changes, acceleration and deceleration are said to
be smooth and comfortable. Furthermore, the CVT contributes to a significant
reduction in fuel consumption, although no figures have been released.
The co-owned by GM
and SAIC Motor joint venture has also made improvements to the subcompact SUV’s
interior, which is now quieter than its predecessor. Baojun accomplished that
by applying high-performance acoustic material in 34 locations to keep more
noise outside the cabin. Additionally, the windshield now has an integrated
soundproof glass and the windows are thicker than before. Engineers have also
made sure to cut the noise levels produced by the air filter, exhaust, and air
conditioning system.
Prices for the updated
510, which is available in two grades, start from RMB 73,800 (US$ 10,750) and RMB 82,800 (US$ 12,050). No wonder the subcompact SUV
is one of Baojun’s best sellers, with nearly 800,000 sales since its
introduction in February 2017.
