After teasing the Baojun RM-5 last month, GM’s
SAIC-GM-Wulling joint venture has fully revealed the all-new MPV in China. The next-gen MPV represents
several firsts for Baojun. For starters, it’s the production version of the
brand’s first concept vehicle – the RM-C Concept. It’s also the first model
that’s part of Baojun’s new RM range of MPVs. Finally, the RM-5 follows the
RS-5 compact SUV and the RC-6 mid-size liftback as Baojun’s third vehicle that
represents the “new Baojun” strategic direction.
As foreshadowed by the original teaser images, the
exterior design of the 2020 Baojun RM-5 remains true to the avant-garde
aesthetic that we saw in the concept. The body is full of various shapes and
elements that give it somewhat of a futuristic appearance. Most notable among
these characteristics are the horizontal lighting elements in both the front
and rear, as well as the polygon-shaped debossed line in the vicinity of the
door handles. The same element is also present around the front and rear
horizontal LED lights.
The proportions and certain styling elements of the
new MPV are also striking, representing the latest iteration of Baojun’s
interstellar geometry design language. The large front grille, the rather
unique hood, as well as the glazed area that houses the tail lamps gives the
Baojun RM-5 a distinct appearance.
For its part, the interior of the 2020 Baojun RM-5
delivers an interesting combination of technology and minimalist design. The
digital instrument cluster spans 12.3 inches. It is joined by a 10.2-inch
multimedia screen that’s flanked by two vertical air vents. Both screens reside
on a single molding that covers the entire width of the cockpit’s dash. The outboard driver-side air vent
is a small horizontal piece, while the passenger-side features two large
horizontal vents.
The interior is finished in two contrasting colors
and includes a diamond pattern on the front dashboard and door panels. In
addition, the new Baojun RM-5 is offered in either two- or three-row seating
configurations. Other notable interior features include a wireless charger in
the front, six USB ports and a large panoramic roof.
Like the other two vehicles developed on Baojun’s
new platform, the RM-5 is powered by a turbocharged 1.5L engine good for 149 horsepower
and 184 foot pounds of torque. The engine can be mated to either a 6-speed
manual or to an automatic CVT.
The all-new 2020 Baojun RM-5 is expected to go on
sale during the fourth quarter of 2019 in China, the only country where the
brand is currently marketed. The vehicle is part of SAIC-GM-Wulling’s strategy
to reposition itself in order to attract a new customer profile for Baojun,
which was initially founded a decade ago as a local value-focused brand.
