The three way joint venture of SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) released the first Baojun model, the 630 compact sedan, on August 9. All three current versions, priced at 62,800 yuan ($9,820), 66,800 yuan, and 73,800 yuan, employ a 1.5-liter petrol engine and 5-speed manual transmission; the combination of a 1.8-liter engine and automatic transmission is said to arrive early next year.

SGMW, the largest microvan maker in China, launched the Baojun brand on July 18 2010 for its planned sedan, SUV, MPV models ("Baojun" means fine horse or steed in Chinese, as indicated by the logo). Many suggested that the first Baojun car would share a platform with Shanghai-GM’s Buick Excelle; the 630, however, seems to show significant structural differences from the Excelle (in rear suspension, for instance). SGMW says that the compact sedan has been designed and developed by Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center, which is co-owned by SAIC and GM (SAIC has 50.1% share of SGMW, GM 44%, Wuling 5.9%).

With a 2,640mm wheelbase, the 630 stands 4,597mm long, 1,736mm wide, and 1,462mm tall, and weighs about 1,206kg. The 1.5L engine, coded B15D and made by SGMW, is rated 81kW/5800rpm and 146Nm/4200rpm; with it the 630 achieves an overall fuel economy of 6.9L/100km.

All of the three versions come with two front airbags, ABS+EBD, power windows/doors/external mirrors, manual AC. The top trim level gets backup radar, UV-blocking windows, leather seats, and steering wheel audio control.

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