The Beijing X3 is a B-segment petrol SUV under BAIC, targeted at the youth-focused, value-for-money daily commuter segment. The model was officially launched on 26 July 2019 under the "Zhida X3" (BEIJING-X3) nameplate, marking the third model in BAIC's "Zhi" lineup. In its 2021 model year update, the model dropped the "Zhida" prefix and was officially rebranded as the "Beijing X3", a moniker it has carried ever since.
Serving as BAIC's core contender in the entry-level SUV segment, the Beijing X3 commands an accessible price bracket of RM59,900 to RM87,900 (a recommended retail price maintained consistently since the 2021 model). Thanks to standard turbocharged power across the range and class-above cabin space, it boasts formidable product competitiveness within the RM50,000 to RM100,000 price band, making it a compelling first-car option for budget-conscious young families. Its primary domestic rivals include Chinese B-segment SUVs such as the Geely Binyue, Chery Tiggo 3x, and GAC Trumpchi GS3.
In terms of exterior styling, the Beijing X3 adopts BAIC's signature "Capital Beauty" design philosophy, sporting an upright, muscular, and youthful profile. Launched in 2019, it features split headlamps and a prominent hexagonal front grille that delivers a strong visual presence. Along the sides, a floating roof design pairs with sharp dual character lines to create an athletic, forward-leaning stance. Higher-spec variants gain roof rails, further elevating its crossover appeal.
Dimension-wise, the vehicle measures 4,325 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,640 mm in height, with a 2,570 mm wheelbase. Courtesy of its generous 1,830 mm width, the crossover outperforms most price-equivalent B-segment SUVs in lateral shoulder room. The model is offered in vibrant body colours including Snow White, Armor Brown, Solar Red, and Twilight Blue, catering to the individual tastes of younger buyers.
Inside, the Beijing X3 features a driver-centric, wraparound asymmetrical dashboard layout that enhances the driving atmosphere. In terms of materials, hard plastics predominate; constrained by price point, fit and finish at certain panel gaps leave room for improvement, though the overall cabin design remains competitive for its class.
The powertrain stands out as one of the Beijing X3's key competitive edges in this segment. Unlike most rivals in this price bracket that rely on 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engines, the Beijing X3 comes standard with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit codenamed A151R1. It produces a maximum output of 110 kW (around 150 PS) and 210 Nm of peak torque, with peak pulling power accessible across a broad band from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.
For transmission options, the 2021 lineup offers a choice between a 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) and a CVT. All variants are configured in front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout.
On the road, the 1.5T engine delivers punchy low-end torque, making 0–60 km/h urban step-off brisk and ensuring confident mid-range overtaking once the turbo spools up. The manual transmission features well-defined gates and moderate throws for an engaging drive, while the CVT prioritises seamless power delivery suited to stop-and-go city traffic. Fuel consumption is rated at an NEDC combined figure of 6.9–7.2 L/100 km on RON 92 petrol, ensuring low day-to-day running costs.
Underneath, the Beijing X3 rides on a monocoque chassis featuring front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam setup—a time-tested configuration in the B-segment SUV category that balances production costs with rear cabin packaging. Electric Power Steering (EPS) comes standard across the range with a light steering tune, while a tight 5.1-metre minimum turning radius makes three-point turns on narrow streets and parallel parking effortless.
Braking is handled by disc brakes at all four corners, complemented by an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold for greater daily convenience. Wheel and tyre packages vary by variant: base trims ride on 205/60 R16 tyres, whereas the Xingyao Edition upgrades to 215/50 R17 rubber, where the lower profile delivers sharper road feedback.
While the chassis tuning prioritises pliant family ride comfort, noticeable tyre roar intrudes into the cabin at speeds above 80 km/h, and engine noise suppression under hard acceleration is rather modest—typical trade-offs at this price point. In the rear, a modest central floor hump and relatively upright rear backrests slightly compromise comfort on long-distance journeys.
Equipment levels follow a high-value approach, with essential safety equipment fitted as standard across the range. Features such as Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alert, and Hill Start Assist (HSA)—often optional in this price category—are standard on the X3.
On the infotainment front, an 8-inch floating touchscreen with Baidu CarLife smartphone integration is standard, satisfying basic connectivity needs. Higher-spec variants upgrade to a 10.1-inch central touchscreen paired with an iFlytek AI voice command system capable of controlling up to 202 vehicle functions. It also includes an AI vehicle health monitor for real-time diagnostics and fault prediction. Notably, the Beijing X3 is fitted with a panoramic glass roof sourced from Inalfa Netherlands; measuring 1,120 mm long and 845 mm wide, it spans over 64% of the roof area, significantly reducing claustrophobia for rear occupants.
Comfort features include fabric, faux leather, or leather/fabric combination seat upholstery depending on the variant. Flagship trims gain a 6-way manually adjustable driver's seat and a multifunction leather steering wheel. Practicality is aided by 60:40 split-folding rear seats, expanding boot volume from 1,200 litres up to 1,606 litres for bulky cargo. The large panoramic sunroof also enhances the perceived sense of cabin airiness for all passengers.
In terms of safety and driver assistance, the Beijing X3 focuses on foundational driving aids and does not feature Level 2 or higher Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Passive safety is handled by dual front airbags or up to four airbags, with side curtain airbags absent from the spec sheet.
Active safety kit includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), providing essential primary safety protection. Convenience aids on higher trims include a reverse camera and cruise control, with the latter on CVT models easing long-distance highway cruising. Advanced active interventions like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) are not available across the range.
The Beijing X3 hit its sales peak in 2021, recording an annual volume of 12,589 units, making it the third best-selling model in BAIC's portfolio. Into 2022 and 2023, hit by China's aggressive EV transition and rapid product cycles among segment rivals, X3 sales contracted to 2,034 units in 2022 and dropped further to 1,058 units in 2023. Past 2025, the model's showroom presence has tapered off, though it continues to see steady niche demand in lower-tier markets thanks to its low entry price and proven fuel efficiency.
On the warranty front, the Beijing X3 is backed by a five-year or 100,000 km factory warranty, comfortably beating the three-year industry baseline at this price point and lowering long-term ownership costs while underlining BAIC's build quality confidence. Resale value after three years hovers around 45%–50%, trailing same-segment joint-venture rivals but remaining on par with Chinese domestic brand averages.
Owner feedback highlights the Beijing X3's "punchy powertrain", "planted chassis", "practical cabin", and "above-expectation tech kit" as its key strengths. However, owners also cite notable NVH shortcomings at cruising speeds (especially tyre roar and wind noise), hard dashboard plastics, and sporadic EPB module hiccups as areas needing improvement. Crucially, within the RM50,000 to RM90,000 bracket, the Beijing X3 remains one of the very few SUVs offering a 150 PS 1.5T turbo engine as standard. Its winning formula of "standard 1.5T punch + long factory warranty + generous base kit" cemented a unique value proposition in the entry-level SUV space. While the Beijing X3 enters the sunset phase of its model lifecycle post-2025, it served as a vital entry-level pillar for BAIC, delivering a dependable, highly accessible ICE alternative for budget-minded buyers amid the broader shift towards electrification.
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