BAW M8 tested in Hong Kong: The most spacious electric MPV under HK$400,000?

MPVs have long been a popular choice in Hong Kong. Since the introduction of the "one-for-one replacement" scheme a few years ago, Chinese electric models have entered the market in growing numbers, challenging the Japanese brands that once dominated the segment.

The BAW M8, sold in Hong Kong by Gainfull Motors, is one of the newer arrivals worth a closer look.

The front end is the most distinctive part of the M8.

Its grille draws on Eastern landscape imagery, with chrome strips designed to resemble a cascading waterfall. BAW calls it the "landscape front", pairing it with Sunset Glow headlights and Mountain Peak daytime running lights. The design has a distinctly Chinese influence, while the lighting adds a modern touch.

Large grilles are common on MPVs these days, but the M8 has squarer body lines than many of its rivals, giving it a look of its own.

Along the sides, the M8 features a floating roof, a shoulder line that runs the length of the body and creases along the doors. These details help keep the side profile from looking too plain.

The rear design is simpler, with an illuminated "BAW" logo integrated into the full-width tail-light bar as its main feature.

The M8 measures 5,317 mm long, 1,870 mm wide and 1,955 mm tall, with a 3,200 mm wheelbase. Its long, relatively narrow body gives it a lean profile.

Inside, the M8 takes a simple, technology-focused approach. The wraparound cockpit features a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a 14.6-inch floating central touchscreen.

The test car came with a black and amber-orange interior, which gives the cabin a stylish, upmarket look.

The Premium version tested here comes with a range of useful features, including 50W wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and power-adjustable seats with ventilation and heating.

In an MPV, however, the second row is often the main attraction. The M8 does not disappoint here: its two middle-row seats are exceptionally comfortable.

We drove from Sung Wong Toi to Yuen Long and then to Sunny Bay to see how the M8 would fare on a longer journey. Our fellow passengers got out without feeling tired.

On the Premium version, both second-row seats have electric adjustment, massage, ventilation and heating. Each seat also comes with a leg rest and a small table in front.

The seats also have a one-touch comfort function. Press the button on the inner side of the seat, and the one-touch comfort function reclines it, allowing passengers to lie back and relax.

In addition to the electric seat controls, the seats can also be moved sideways manually using handles on their outer sides.

The third row is an even bigger surprise. With a body more than 5.3 metres long, the M8 has enough room for passengers in the back even when those in the second row slide their seats back. Third-row occupants do not have to sit with their knees drawn up or feel cramped.

Despite offering generous space across all three rows, the M8 also has a huge boot. For a closer look at its interior space, see BitAuto's earlier static walkaround video.

Both the second and third rows have their own air vents.

During the test, we also tried filling the boot with luggage. As the photos show, the M8 had no trouble accommodating the load.

The M8 is not without a couple of details that families should consider. First, it does not have the large sunroof commonly found on rival MPVs. However, its relatively tall body provides plenty of headroom, while the large windows help keep the cabin bright and open.

Second, the M8 has quite high ground clearance, which can make getting in and out less convenient. To address this, the vehicle comes with electrically deployable side steps.

The sturdy powered side steps make getting in and out of the M8 easier and more convenient.

Both BAW M8 variants use a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 170 kW and 310 Nm, paired with an 81 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The claimed CLTC range is 505 km.

We tested the M8 with six people on board and the boot almost full. Even with this much weight, the vehicle delivered respectable performance, with acceleration remaining responsive above 80 km/h. The steering is light, making the M8 easy to drive in everyday conditions.

The M8 also comes with side-view cameras that switch on automatically when the indicators are activated, helping the driver check the road alongside the vehicle. This is particularly useful when manoeuvring a vehicle that is more than 5.3 metres long.

The M8 uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension setup at the rear. Although it does not have air suspension, its ride comfort and body-roll control are both good.

The front and middle rows are also well insulated from outside noise. At higher speeds, some wind noise can be heard in the rear cabin, but it remains within an acceptable range.

The two BAW M8 variants are priced at HK$369,900 and HK$389,900 respectively. Its equipment and driving experience are broadly in line with what buyers would expect from the segment, but the M8's biggest selling point is its generous cabin space.

Gainfull Motors also plans to introduce a commercial version of the M8, and BitAuto will bring you more updates as they become available.

BAW M8 Specifications

Powertrain and battery: Single rear-mounted electric motor, 81 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery

Power and torque: 231 PS / 310 Nm

Range: 505 km (CLTC)

Dimensions (L/W/H): 5,317 / 1,870 / 1,955 mm

Wheelbase: 3,200 mm

Price: From HK$369,900

Enquiries: 3678 2688 / 5445 6328 (WhatsApp)

Web: http://www.bitauto.hk/

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bitautohk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bitautohongkong/