BAW 212: New Chinese 4×4 SUV for SA?

Showcased at IAA Mobility 2025, could the BAW 212 off-road SUV make its way to South Africa? It seems likely. Here’s what we know so far.

BAW 212 T01 front

Image: BAW

BAW (Beijing Automobile Works) has showcased its 212 T01 at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, Germany. Now, considering BAIC, who is already trading in South Africa, owns a 51% stake in this Chinese automaker, we enquired whether BAW’s rugged off-road SUV will come to South Africa.

Will the BAW 212 come to SA?

Speaking to the company at IAA Mobility 2025, BAW told CAR Editor Ian McLaren that the 212 T01 is coming to “all African markets”. However, when the carmaker’s adventure SUV will be introduced to the African continent – or our country, specifically – remains unconfirmed.

The BAW 212 T01 measures 4 705 mm in length, 1 895 mm in width, 1 936 mm in height, and 2 860 mm between the front and rear axles. For comparison, the 212 T01’s length and width make it slightly smaller than the GWM Tank 300, though it’s wheelbase is 110 mm longer than the GWM’s. The 212 T01 sports a ground clearance of 235 mm, 40-degree approach and 36-degree departure angles, and a water-fording depth of 850 mm. Underpinned by a ladder-frame chassis, the 212 T01 features five-link rigid axle suspension, front and rear.

The 212 T01 employs a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that’s “inspired by” Toyota’s old 4Y unit. The BAW’s turbocharged oil-burner delivers 125 kW and 415 N.m of torque to a part-time four-wheel-drive system via an eight-speed self-shifter. Front and rear diff locks are present. The fuel tank has a capacity of 80 litres.

As a reminder, while we wait for confirmation on when the BAW will reach African markets, including ours, Denza has confirmed the B5 SUV, which will rival the likes of Toyota’s Land Cruiser Prado and the Land Rover Defender, is coming to South Africa.

 

 

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The post BAW 212: New Chinese 4×4 SUV for SA? appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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