An all-new BJ212 was officially released on June 6th, 2024. The vehicle is sometimes dubbed the “Chinese G Wagon” for its classic, boxy design. The 212 dates back to 1965, and this is the first time in nearly 60 years that the classic 212 based on Russian off-roaders has been replaced. Not only is this 212 a new generation car, but the name has now been expanded from a single model to an entire brand, with the new 212 “special edition”  serving as the inaugural product in this family. The last time the car saw any action was in 2021 with a tribute edition.

Retaining the iconic design cues that have made the 212 a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, the new 212 model features the classic split-headlight setup, grille, and boxy silhouette. The front end is especially rugged, with a thick bumper that could practically double as a step. Flared fenders give the 212 an imposing, Jeep-like stance. Even the door handles remain true to the 212’s traditional styling.

Under the hood, the 212 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 185 kW, putting it on par with the new BJ40 model. Strangely, given the car’s supposed hard-core off-roader styling, there was no mention of the torque produced by the engine, which delivers power through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 212 off-road credentials go beyond just the engine, and it boasts a “part-time” adjustable 4WD system with high and low ranges, locking differentials front and rear, and an OFFROAD drive mode tailored for extreme conditions. Approach and departure angles of 40 and 36 degrees, respectively, mean that the 212  can tackle tough terrain.

Inside, the 212s cabin strikes a utilitarian tone, with physical controls for the climate and off-road systems taking precedence over touch-based interfaces. A fully digital instrument cluster and floating central display provide the necessary modern tech features. While the 212 will face competition from models like the BJ40 and Haval H5, its combination of classic styling, robust off-road capability, and (hopefully) an affordable price point could make it a tempting choice for adventure-seeking buyers.  The yet-to-be-confirmed and estimated price for the 212 model is between 14,000 and 20,000 USD.

The 212 brand comes from the BAW (Beijing Auto Works) company and was a BAIC subsidiary before it was sold in the private sector. The brand has long been associated with accessible, no-frills off-roading, and the 212 seems poised to continue that legacy. If the 212 can replicate the success of brands like Xiaomi, offering a range of models at different price points, it may become the everyman’s off-road vehicle of choice.

Source: Autohome and MyDrivers