This isn’t the first time we’ve seen the Hawtai B35, it debuted almost two years ago resembling a mash-up of Porsche, Bentley, and Audi styling. The Chinese automaker went back to revamp the model and plans on bringing this revamped SUV to the Beijing Motor Show this year.
The front grille, that previously resembled something from Bentley’s factory, has been slightly shrunken and now looks like it came off a Jaguar. Meanwhile, the biggest change is the redesigned headlights. There’s no way beating around this bush, the front end of the B35 is definitely more Cayenne-inspired than not. What’s even more peculiar is the close resemblance the doors now have to those off a Mercedes-Benz.
But that’s where the resemblances stop. Once you take a look at the B35 interior or under the hood, it’s obvious that Chinese vehicle design is still more about style than substance – or rather, copying style and leaving out the substance.
The interior is completely bland leather with wood – or imitation wood – trim accents, six airbags, navigation, parking sensors, heated seats, and an electric sunroof. But under the hood is a 1.8L that apparently is derived from the Rover K-Series family from back in 1988. The B35′s 1.8L is turbocharged with an output of 164-hp. The other engine option is a naturally aspirated 2.0L with 150-hp. Transmission choices include a CVT or a five-speed manual.
No pricing was announced on the new B35.