BAIC MZ45

Inside the Mz45 is the familiar streamlined dashboard setup. There’s the analog instrument cluster which serves as a background for the three-spoke steering wheel. At the center console are typical AC vents; knobs and buttons for the controls; radio with CD, USB, and MP3 capabilities coupled with a 4-speaker sound system; manual gear shifter; and brake lever. Seats are clad in fabric. Rear air vents and AC controls are available for rear passengers to ensure the flow of cold air throughout the vehicle. Multiple seat combinations are being offered by BAIC for this hauler. There’s an option to choose from a 2-seater van for cargo and commercial use; 7 or 8 seaters for ultimate comfort with ample space for leg and shoulder room without compromising cargo space; or you can maximize the seating capacity by opting to put 11 seats with 2 + 3 + 3 +3 layout.

The BAIC Mz45 took to the changing design of a family hauler. This China assembled ‘extra-long’ minivan features a front bumper for the engine for a more contemporary look. It has a pair of creases on the hood that highlights the dual front grille with mesh design. On the sides are halogen headlights with levelizer and down below are front fog lamps. On the sides are side view mirrors with turn signal lights, sliding doors on both the left and right side, and aerodynamic creases for a bit of a sporty feel. At the back is a flat tailgate that opens up the whole rear, and high mount stop lamp for added safety. This hauler from BAIC measures 4,495 mm long, 1,636 mm wide, 1,912 mm tall, a wheelbase of 2,920 mm, and has a ground clearance of 140 mm. It rides on a set of 14-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 175/70 R14 rubber and comes in two color options: silver or white though the transporter variant comes solely in white color.

For its size, the Mz45 is easy to steer even on congested city roads and narrow streets. This is a big plus considering its length. Curves and tight turns are accurately navigated thanks to its rack and pinion with power assist steering, though body rolls are expected but manageable. Gear shifting lags for a split second but otherwise does the job well and the van responds instantaneously. There is minimal vibration from the gasoline engine and the insulation does a fairly decent job at keeping noise levels at a minimum. The suspension system which is a combination of independent Macpherson with coil spring on the front and rigid axle leaf spring with shock absorber at the rear adds a cushioning effect for passengers when there are humps and bumps on the road.

The BAIC Mz45 is powered by an A12, 1.2-Liter, 4-cylinder inline, DOHC with VVT, and EGR gasoline engine capable of delivering 86 PS of power at 6,000 rpm and 108 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. The 1,199 c engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and has a top speed of 120 kmph. This hauler from the Chinese automaker has a fuel tank capacity of 45 liters, is Euro 4 Emission Standard compliant, and uses RON 95 fuel.

For its price point, the Mz45 is not packed with much driver-assist features like an airbag system, sensors, camera, and parking assist system. It does not even comes with the basics like hill hold assist, stability control, ABS + EBD, engine immobilizer, anti-theft alarm, and cruise control which is understandable. The safety and convenience features are limited to the remote central door lock, remote keyless entry system, 3 pt. seatbelts, and load sensing valve (LSV). However, what it lacks in added tech, it makes up for in engineering. The front safety structure (FSS) is built with an advance-engineered front crumple zone, reinforced bumper beam, and front face collision energy-diverting stiffener to effectively control energy in case of a collision by creating an energy-absorbing buffer. For braking power, this BAIC hauler uses a combination of disc and drum brakes for the front and rear.

The BAIC Mz45 is a steal for its price. It offers practicality, spacious cabin, while also providing some level of comfort for passengers and driver. Though it typically lacks the bells and whistles one would expect from the more popular car brands, it makes up for in price which appeals to some savvy buyers who put a premium to practicality. In all honesty, the BAIC Mz45 is more suited for commercial use than for a family vehicle. It lacks the essential safety features—especially an airbag system and ISOFIX, that most families look for in a hauler. However, its utilitarian set up can be the best use for business purposes like hauling cargo or for transporting people like a company van or UV express to maximize its strength when it comes to space.