The BEIJING-X3 is a compact B-segment SUV introduced in 2019 by BEIJING Auto under the BAIC Group. Formerly known as the "Zhida X3", it serves as a facelifted and upgraded successor to the Senova X35. First unveiled at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show, the model subsequently received a 2021 update in February 2021. As of 2026, the core lineup comprises the 2021 model and subsequent minor update versions, offering a total of six variants with a choice of manual and CVT gearboxes, badged under the "Honor Edition", "Honor Edition PLUS", and "Star Edition" trim tiers.
Touted as a "Next-Gen AI-Powered SUV for Young Drivers", the BEIJING-X3 targets the RM50,000 to RM90,000 compact SUV segment, focusing on punchy performance and tech-laden features to appeal to budget-conscious young families and first-time car buyers. It carries an official retail price ranging from RM59,900 to RM87,900, with terminal on-the-road starting prices dropping to as low as RM56,900 after factoring in government incentives of up to RM20,000. Key segment rivals include the Changan CS35 PLUS, Chery Tiggo 5x, and Baojun 510.
Visually, the BEIJING-X3 adopts BAIC’s signature corporate styling language, exuding an aggressive and athletic stance. The front end is dominated by a large hexagonal inverted trapezoidal grille with horizontal black slats, framed by matte chrome accents and crowned with prominent "BEIJING" lettering. Full LED headlights come standard across the range, housing 205 individual LED diodes; flanking the lower bumper are aggressive L-shaped fang-like daytime running lights (DRLs) paired with a gunmetal skid plate, giving the SUV an assertive, sporty front fascia.
The side profile is defined by sharp, chiselled lines, featuring a prominent character line stretching from the front wing to the tail lamps. This is complemented by a floating roof design and a sleek tapering roofline for a more elongated, dynamic silhouette. Around the back, a full-width chrome trim connects the LED tail lamp clusters, which feature a distinct high-tech light signature, while the rear bumper incorporates a matching gunmetal skid plate for a cohesive look. In terms of dimensions, the BEIJING-X3 measures 4,325 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,640 mm tall, with a 2,570 mm wheelbase. Its generous vehicle height gives it a clear headroom advantage over key rivals in its class. Exterior colour choices include Ice Snow White, Armor Brown, Solar Red, and Twilight Blue.
Inside, the BEIJING-X3 features a driver-centric cockpit with an asymmetrical dashboard angled towards the driver, paired with a sporty flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel. Taking centre stage on the dashboard is an 8-inch floating infotainment touchscreen (with some variants citing a 9-inch unit), flanked by grey soft-touch fabric trims, chrome accents, and gloss black piano panels to elevate the cabin's perceived quality while keeping costs in check. While it misses out on a fully digital instrument cluster, the central multi-info display provides ample trip and driving data. Rear legroom is commendable for the class, with a 1.7-metre-tall passenger enjoying nearly two fists of knee clearance over an almost completely flat floor, ensuring reasonable comfort for three abreast. Maximum boot capacity expands up to 1,606 litres with the rear seats folded.
The BEIJING-X3 is powered exclusively by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine across the range. While earlier iterations offered an entry-level 1.5-litre naturally aspirated unit (Euro 5 compliant), the 2021 model onwards has transitioned entirely to the 1.5T powerplant. The 1.5T engine churns out 110 kW (approx. 150 PS) and 210 Nm of peak torque across a broad rev band, delivering robust mid-to-high-end pull for confident overtaking and effortless hill climbs.
Transmission duties are handled by either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a Punch Powertrain-sourced CVT with simulated manual ratios; the CVT includes a Sport mode for sharper throttle and drivetrain responses. BAIC claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 10.84 seconds for the 1.5T variant. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels (FWD).
Fuel economy is rated at 6.9 to 7.2 L/100 km on the NEDC cycle (6.9 L/100 km for the manual and 7.2 L/100 km for the CVT). Real-world feedback shows the SUV performs most efficiently on highway cruises, returning around 5.9 L/100 km, while mixed urban driving averages around 7.1 L/100 km. The engine runs on RON 92 petrol and complies with China 6 emission standards. First-hand owners are covered by a 5-year or 100,000 km manufacturer warranty.
Underneath, the BEIJING-X3 runs on a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut setup up front and a torsion beam non-independent suspension at the rear—a tried-and-tested configuration in this segment. The suspension is tuned with noticeable firmness, transmitting sharper road surface imperfections into the cabin, though it delivers composed damping on typical paved city roads. It is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS). Stopping power comes courtesy of ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear. An Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) comes standard across all variants, making slope starts effortless. Selectable driving modes are not available on this model.
The BEIJING-X3 offers a competitive tech package relative to its price point. The 8-inch floating central touchscreen is powered by BAIC’s AI smart operating system, supporting intelligent voice commands, live online navigation, smartphone mirroring, radio, and online music streaming. The voice recognition system, powered by iFLYTEK, supports up to 40 languages and enables hands-free control of navigation, multimedia, and air conditioning. Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates are supported via its telematics suite. Smartphone connectivity includes Baidu CarLife, with select data indicating compatibility with Apple CarPlay.
Seat upholstery ranges from fabric on entry variants to leatherette/fabric combo or full synthetic leather on higher grades. The steering wheel comes in urethane or leather, with multi-function controls fitted on upper trims. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats allow easy expansion of cargo room. Two USB/Type-C charging ports are available throughout the cabin (configured as 1 front/1 rear or 2 front/1 rear depending on trim). Manual climate control is standard, complete with rear air-con vents to ensure adequate cooling for rear passengers. A rear central armrest with integrated cup holders is also offered on selected higher-tier variants.
On the active safety front, the BEIJING-X3 comes standard with Bosch’s 9th-generation Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), alongside essentials such as ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), and Traction Control System (TCS). For parking ease, a reverse camera is standard, while higher grades gain a 360-degree high-definition surround-view camera with dynamic guidelines and multi-angle views to assist in tight parking spots and narrow lanes. Other practical safety inclusions comprise Hill Hold Control (HHC) and emergency stop signal (ESS) flashing hazard lights to mitigate rear-end collisions. As for advanced driver aids, the BEIJING-X3 does not offer Level 2 ADAS capabilities, retaining an essential, entry-level active safety package throughout.
In terms of passive safety, the vehicle is built with a high-strength cage body structure, with dual front airbags (driver and front passenger) standard across the range. ISOFIX child seat anchor points are also standard. However, it is worth noting that side and curtain airbags are omitted across all variants.
Since its 2019 debut, the BEIJING-X3 has carved out a respectable market presence thanks to its accessible pricing and standard 1.5T turbo engine. As of April 2025, buoyed by government incentives of up to RM20,000, dealer pricing has dropped to an attractive entry point of RM56,900, further boosting its value-for-money appeal.
Owner feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding powertrain punch—the 1.5T motor delivers robust mid-range torque for effortless overtaking and highway cruising, offering an agile city drive; fuel economy is another strong point, particularly during sustained highway runs; meanwhile, standard full LED headlights and the available 360-degree camera system are rare perks at this price level, alongside sleek exterior styling and a modern floating touchscreen that resonate well with young buyers. On the flip side, complaints focus on the extensive use of hard plastics inside the cabin, which detracts from perceived premium quality; relatively firm seat cushioning that hampers long-distance comfort; noticeable off-the-line turbo lag; and a slight latency in CVT response.
In conclusion, by offering a 1.5T turbocharged engine as standard, the BEIJING-X3 delivers a distinct competitive edge in the RM50,000 to RM80,000 entry-level compact SUV market, comfortably outperforming 1.5L naturally aspirated rivals in terms of power reserves. While noticeable cost compromises exist in cabin materials, rear suspension design, and airbag count, the BEIJING-X3 remains a compelling option for budget-conscious young buyers and first-time car owners prioritising performance and everyday tech.
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