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Is The Baojun RC-6 The Car Of The Future?

These days, it seems like folks want it all from their vehicle. They want something flashy, but practical, with loads of efficiency, but good performance as well. The vehicle should be roomy and comfortable, but easy to drive, with a modern, timeless design that doesn’t blend in. Seems like a pretty tall order, but the new Baojun RC-6 may have all of that nailed down thanks to a new kind of design.

We examined the Baojun RC-6 earlier this week, checking out the upcoming vehicle’s various styling and design elements, and we think it’s possible that what we’re looking at is nothing less than the car of the future. Granted, anyone reading that previous statement should probably take it with a grain of salt. Let us explain.

2020 Baojun RC-6 Liftback Leaked

First off, the Baojun RC-6 offers a stance that screams “crossover.” The whole thing sits above the pavement with the sort of ground clearance you’d expect from a modern CUV, giving the driver the high-riding position that’s responsible for much of the popularity of the modern crossover. Furthermore, the rear end juts out from the rear axle with considerable length, which pairs with the rear hatchback, resulting in solid practicality and utility.

However, this isn’t some chunky off-roader or box on wheels: the Baojun RC-6 offers surprisingly sleek styling, with clean lines and sporty proportions. That front end stands out for its sedan-like qualities, while the large exterior dimensions, elongated tail section and velvety roofline remind us of the Cadillac Escala concept. High praise, indeed.

Finally, the coupe-like profile does double duty, adding to the vehicle’s efficiency in terms of aerodynamics, at least compared to other high-riding SUVs and crossovers, while delivering a sexy and sleek profile reminiscent of a coupe.

2020 Baojun RC-6 Liftback sketch 02

It’s an interesting design, that much is for sure. Created under the three-way joint venture between GM, SAIC, and Wuling, the Baojun RC-6  will spearhead a product offensive for the Baojun brand. Under the skin is an all-new vehicle architecture that matches that of the upcoming Baojun RS-5.

The Baojun RC-6 also pulls its oily bits from the RS-5, including the turbocharged 1.5L inline four-cylinder engine. Output is rated at 150 horsepower, all of which is sent to the ground through either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT.

All told, the Baojun RC-6 is a strange hodge-podge that just works, at least in terms of visuals. Whether or not the buying public will agree remains to be seen. But if it works, we can see this kind of design – with a slightly raised ground clearance, a coupe-like roofline, a liftback form-factor, and a sedan-like appearance becoming quite popular.

Looking for more visions of the automotive future? Then subscribe to GM Authority for additional Baojun news and 24/7 GM news coverage.

Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

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Comments

  1. No!

    It lack the look of a truck or SUV.

    People by not just for the high stance they buy for the utility of the cargo area and the more truck or suv like the better.

    Even the HHR worked over a traditional wagon because it looked like a truck and had good utility.

    Others have tried this cross over car deal and the response was Luke warm.

    Reply
  2. I think the roof line needs to be pushed back, even if that means increasing the rear rake. This current roofline reduces rear passenger head room too much and cargo volume.
    Need something between this current and the Panamera Gran Turismo.
    You could photoshop flipping the front end and rear end and have a better looking vehicle

    This design is kind of showing we’ve come full circle on the Saab teardrop, but not nearly as well executed

    Reply
  3. I could see this as replacement for the current Regal if the Opel made one is discontinued. There is some Avista in the front grille and headlights.

    Reply
  4. Seriously?!? “turbocharged 1.5L inline four-cylinder engine. Output is rated at 150 horsepower” It certainly DOESN’T have it all, does it???
    Would love to know what vehicles this author grew up around as that is just PATHETIC. No thanks….

    Reply
  5. This tilts in the right direction but overshoots the landing.
    Return to the upright configuration and proportions of passenger cars of the forties and fifties, before the advent of “lower, longer, wider”.
    Cars had style AND utility and you didn’t have to be a contortionist to get behind the wheel.

    Reply
  6. REALLY ??? WHOS IDEA IS THIS SHOULD BE FIRED!!
    Worthless AN Ugly! WHAT A POOR EXCUSE TO BE CALLED A CAR!

    Reply
  7. I agree the roof line should be higher. The first thing my husband always says is “I hit my head”. Rear passengers need a little more head room as well. However, I do not think the vehicle is ugly. In fact, I like it. The lines are sleek. it does however need better looking wheels — black just does not do it. Thank you.

    Reply
  8. This configuration already used by several companies with Luke warm results.

    Not a new concept nor a very successful one.

    Reply
  9. This is exactly the brand and type of cars Americans will be driving in 5 to 10 years.

    China dictates the future for the world. We are # 1.

    Reply
  10. Note:You put a higher roof on this and then it becomes a CUV.

    Reply
  11. My niece lives in Florida and owns a 1998 Tahoe with “barn doors”. Because she has a disabled child, this particular truck has met her needs well because of the things she has to pack in the rear bay of this model. She also says people always want to buy her truck because she has kept it in excellent shape.
    She has wondered for a long time why Chevrolet stopped making Tahoe without the “barn doors”? Why can’t it be an “option” for those who want the doors? She says due to her height, it is difficult to reach up and pull the doors down in the newer trucks. She admits wanting a new truck but due to its size being smaller and the doors, she continues to hold onto her truck.
    Please explain. Please discuss the Tahoe’s future to improve its features. Sincere Loyal Chevy owner myself.

    Reply

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