BAIC is no longer an unfamiliar name on our roads, and the X55 and X7 models clearly show why. The BAIC X55 is a more compact urban SUV, while the X7 is larger and aimed at families and more demanding roads. Both offer a great deal of equipment for the money, along with strong performance, which is why an increasing number of buyers are seriously considering them before purchasing a new car.
What is interesting is that these two models are aimed at different types of buyers, even though they come from the same brand. One is designed for the city and everyday journeys, while the other is intended for those who need more space and greater ground clearance. For that reason, we will compare them based on the features that genuinely make a difference when it comes to buying.
In this review, we will look at equipment, space, driving behaviour, safety and all the main specifications. We will rely on specific and verified data, and by the end, you will know exactly which of these two models deserves a place in your garage.
What Are the BAIC X55 and X7?
The BAIC X55 and X7 are family SUVs from the same brand, but they are designed for different needs. The X55 is the more compact model, tailored to city driving and everyday journeys, while the X7 is larger, more spacious and potentially better suited to rougher roads. What both models have in common is that they compete in their respective classes through price and performance, rather than relying on the brand name alone.
BAIC as a Brand
BAIC is not a newcomer from China, but one of the country’s oldest and largest vehicle manufacturers. According to the brand’s official website, the group’s roots date back to 1958, and today it is a major state-owned company producing millions of vehicles each year.
Its partnerships with global brands are perhaps the clearest sign of its experience. BAIC has been manufacturing Mercedes and Hyundai vehicles in China for decades, and according to data from the Mercedes-Benz Group, it is now also the company’s largest individual shareholder, with a 9.98 percent stake. That same engineering expertise has also been applied to BAIC’s own models, including the X55 and X7.
What Are the BAIC X55 and X7 Like to Drive?
Both models are, first and foremost, comfortable family SUVs rather than sports cars, and that becomes clear from the moment you set off. They share a similar powertrain setup and offer a pleasant driving experience both in the city and on the open road, while the main differences come down to the size and intended purpose of each model.
Engines and Performance
Both models are powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing around 185 horsepower and up to 305 Nm of torque. Power is delivered through a dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the BAIC X55 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7.8 seconds, which is quite respectable for a compact SUV. Thanks to its relatively low weight, the X55 feels agile and is easy to drive through city traffic.
The X7 uses the same basic engine setup, but it is larger, heavier and taller than the X55, with 200 mm of ground clearance compared with 160 mm in its smaller sibling. With the X7, the focus is less on acceleration and more on a calm driving experience, a better view of the road and greater confidence on gravel and poorer road surfaces.
Driving Feel and Drawbacks
In everyday driving, both cars feel comfortable, with decent sound insulation and soft suspension that absorbs smaller road imperfections well. The steering is light and predictable, making the cars well suited to both city driving and longer journeys, while allowing the driver to gain confidence quickly.
Like any cars in this class, these models have a few minor points worth knowing in advance. According to some independent reviews, the suspension can feel slightly firmer over the roughest potholes, while the dual-clutch transmission may take a moment before responding. None of this significantly affects the everyday driving experience, and most drivers become accustomed to these details after the first few journeys.
How Safe Are the BAIC X55 and X7?
Both models perform well in terms of safety, with extensive equipment and five-star ratings in the Chinese C-NCAP test. However, one important point should be made clear from the start: neither model currently has a European Euro NCAP rating, so their safety should be assessed through their equipment and Chinese test results, with a certain degree of caution.
Safety Equipment and Driver Assistance Systems
In terms of safety equipment, both cars offer what is expected in this class today. The BAIC X55 comes as standard with six airbags, ABS and stability control, along with systems that provide collision warnings and detect pedestrians and cyclists.
The X7 follows the same approach, with features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. We recommend checking the exact equipment list before buying, as it varies from one version to another.
NCAP Status: Chinese C-NCAP, Not European Euro NCAP
We need to be precise here, as we always should when discussing safety ratings. Both the BAIC X55 and X7 received five stars in the C-NCAP test, along with a high score for active safety. It is important to understand that C-NCAP is not the same as the European Euro NCAP, as it uses a different methodology and may not reflect the standards applied in other parts of the world. These five stars should therefore be viewed as a Chinese rating rather than a European one until the models undergo Euro NCAP testing.
Who Are the BAIC X55 and X7 For, and Are They Worth Buying?
The BAIC X55 and X7 offer the greatest value to buyers looking for strong performance and plenty of equipment at a reasonable price. Both provide space, technology and safety features usually associated with more expensive classes, with the main difference being how much space and capability beyond paved roads you actually need.
The Ideal Buyer for Each Model
The BAIC X55 is the right choice for city driving and everyday journeys, where compact dimensions and easy parking matter most. It is ideal for individuals, couples and smaller families looking for a comfortable and well-equipped SUV at a reasonable price.
The X7, on the other hand, is the logical step up for larger families and those who often travel beyond paved roads. It offers more space, greater ground clearance and a more reassuring feel on poorer road surfaces, which allows it to take on the role of a main family car with ease.
However, these are not fixed rules, only recommendations. In reality, both vehicles are fairly compact, while their value for money is very strong, making them suitable for a wide range of potential buyers.
Where Can You Buy and Test a BAIC in Montenegro?
Now that we have covered everything these two models have to offer, the most important question remains: where can you see and test them in person? In Montenegro, BAIC vehicles are sold and serviced by A-Drive, the authorised distributor with a showroom and service centre in Podgorica.
What sets A-Drive apart is that sales, servicing and spare parts are all available in one place, so your purchase includes not only the car itself, but also long-term support. All technicians specialise in BAIC vehicles, which means your X55 or X7 is maintained by someone who understands the model thoroughly. With warranty coverage and regular servicing under one roof, vehicle care is kept to a minimum.
The best way to decide is to get behind the wheel and experience the difference between the two models yourself. Book a test drive and visit the A-Drive showroom in Podgorica, where you can find out first-hand whether the BAIC X55 or X7 is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between the BAIC X55 and X7?
The X55 is a more compact SUV designed for city driving and everyday use, while the X7 is larger and more spacious. The X7 also has greater ground clearance, 200 mm compared with 160 mm, which makes it better suited to poorer road surfaces.
How Safe Are the BAIC X55 and X7?
Both models received five stars in the Chinese C-NCAP test and come with extensive safety equipment. It is important to note that neither has a European Euro NCAP rating, so the five-star result should be understood as a Chinese safety rating.
What Engine Powers These Models?
Both use a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing around 185 horsepower, paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The smaller and lighter X55 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7.8 seconds, which is a solid result for a compact SUV.
Are BAIC Servicing and Spare Parts Available in Montenegro?
Yes. In Montenegro, BAIC is represented by A-Drive, the authorised distributor with a showroom and service centre in Podgorica. Sales, certified servicing, original parts and warranty coverage are all available in one place.
Is It Worth Buying the BAIC X55 or X7?
Yes, especially for buyers looking for plenty of space, equipment and safety at a reasonable price. The compact BAIC X55 is the more logical choice for city driving and smaller families, while the X7 is better suited to larger families and more frequent driving on poorer roads.
