China has released a model very similar to a Land Rover Defender, with their version being over £50,000 cheaper. Chinese brand Beijing Auto Works’ BAW 212 model is a five-door off-roader that looks the spitting image of a Land Rover Defender 110.
The 212 was launched back in 2024, a re-imagining of the original BJ212 which was first released back in 1965. The new model has hit the road for just $14,000 (£11,135), making it one of the most affordable cars on the road. The higher-end trim is a bit more, costing around $20,000 (£14,806), which makes the car cheaper than the iconic Italian Fiat 500 and much more affordable than a Land Rover.
According to AutoTrader, brand-new Land Rover Defender 110 models can massively vary in price. However, costs usually start from around £62,795, with some rising as high as £158,045, depending on the version.
It means the BAW 212 is a whopping £50,000 less than the Land Rover model, a price tag that is sure to catch customers’ eyes. The BAW 212 is not yet available in the UK, but that could soon all be about to change.
Like other Chinese manufacturers, BAW is looking to expand into new markets with bosses committed to expanding into foreign territories sooner rather than later.
BAW CEO Lu Yunran explained: “As a unique product category, Chinese-made off-road vehicles are also going global in a determined effort to promote our development and manufacturing capabilities. The 212 brand will mobilise resources to advance our foray into foreign markets.”
The four-wheel drive BAW is equipped with a 2.0 GDI Turbocharged Direct Injection Engine. Inside, the model is fitted with a stylish interior including faux leather seats and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
Although not directly built for performance, the base BAW model can reach around 130 km/h (81 mph) with the top-end model hitting 170 km/h (105.6 mph). If that was enough, the BAW 212 is also fitted with switchable four-wheel drive and front and rear differential locks.
The BAW 212 comes in five colours with road users able to select from white, green, grey, dark green and black.