Changhe-Suzuki will soon launch the newest version
of Changhe Beidouxing hatchback in China, essentially a Suzuki Wagon R in a new
skin. The car is much wider and longer than the Maruti Wagon R.
The new Changhe Beidouxing measures 3,950 mm long,
1,740 mm wide, 1,690 high, and has a wheelbase of 2,530 mm. For reference, the
Maruti Wagon R VXI+ measures 3,636 mm long, 1,475 mm wide, 1,670 mm tall with a
2,400 mm wheelbase.
Despite the new dimensions, the Changhe Beidouxing
is a strict 5-seater and not a 7-seater like the Wagon R concept shown in
Indonesia in 2013. The new Changhe Beidouxing drops the Suzuki ‘S’ badge for
Changhe’s badge. It features projector headlights, sunroof, separate LED DRL
strips, boxy rear-end with angular taillamps and a rear wiper. Under the hood a
1.4L K14B four-cylinder petrol engine with 101 hp reportedly serves.
It is unclear if the car will continue as a Changhe
product or as a BAIC model, given that BAIC has acquired Changhe Auto. The
model does not have the Beijing Auto badging the left portion of its tailgate.
