To be exact, BAIC (Beijing Auto, Beiqi) was exposed, by sohu.com, developing a long-wheelbase version of the Tiguan SUV through reverse engineering. The Tiguan-derived model is believed to be a production version of the C51X concept BAIC showcased at the 2012 Beijing auto show.
Above: BAIC C51X Concept
Previously we learned that the C51X was based on the M-trix platform, which BAIC has developed with the Saab assets it bought. But the pictures revealed it took aim at the popular compact SUV from Shanghai-Volkswagen. BAIC apparently took apart a Tiguan and experimented with reconstructing it with a longer wheelbase and vehicle body. One picture shows that a severed rear door was re-joined with a section about 50mm wide, indicating the Tiguan imitator would have a wheelbase of about 2730mm
Above: The Tiguan SUV studied by BAIC
According to BAIC, the C51X will be powered by a "T-Power 150" engine, a 1.5T GDI that can deliver 121kw/5800rpm and 225Nm/1750rpm. Mated to it will be a CVT or dual clutch transmission. Market launch was originally scheduled for mid-2013.
