BAIC has been steadily making its mark in the Chinese automotive scene, producing a variety of vehicles through its Arxfox sub-brand as well as through joint ventures with Hyundai. In addition to these collaborations, the company continues to develop a select lineup of BAIC-branded vehicles, and its newest model—the BJ81—is now emerging in a fresh set of leaked images. This new SUV is expected to succeed the existing BJ80, which recently garnered attention in a military-spec version showcased in China. While the BJ81’s official debut is tentatively scheduled for the third quarter of 2026, the early images provide enthusiasts with a first glimpse of the model’s updated design and styling direction.
At first glance, the BJ81 shares a strong visual resemblance with its predecessor, the BJ80, but there are subtle refinements that give the new model a slightly more polished appearance. Unlike earlier criticism that the BJ80 bore an obvious resemblance to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the BJ81 looks less derivative while maintaining a boxy, rugged aesthetic typical of off-road vehicles. The display model in the leaked images features an all-black theme with heavily tinted windows, a blacked-out grille, and redesigned circular LED headlights that still hint at a G-Wagen influence but in a more subdued manner. Additionally, the front bumper has been refreshed, complementing the SUV’s overall bold stance.
From the side, the BJ81 remains largely similar to the BJ80, retaining signature elements such as flared front and rear wheel arches, prominent side steps, and robust door handles. The rear maintains a familiar layout, with a mounted spare wheel, a split tailgate, and squared-off taillights. This particular display model also features Brembo brakes with cross-drilled rotors, suggesting that BAIC is emphasizing a performance-oriented image for the vehicle’s more premium variants.
Mechanically, the BJ81 is expected to carry over the same powertrain options currently offered in the BJ80. These include a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 231 hp and 345 Nm of torque, as well as a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 delivering 280 hp and 420 Nm. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which has proven effective in the current BJ80 and is likely to continue unchanged in the new model.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether BAIC intends to offer the BJ81 outside of China. Given the company’s current focus and market positioning, it seems probable that the SUV will initially be confined to domestic showrooms. Nonetheless, the BJ81 represents a significant step in BAIC’s evolution of its off-road lineup, offering a more refined and contemporary take on a vehicle that has long been popular among enthusiasts in China.