Is the Baojun 730 an MPV or a minivan?
3 Answers
The Baojun 730 is an MPV, specifically a family-oriented MPV. Its body dimensions are 4780 mm in length, 1780 mm in width, and 1740 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750 mm. The Baojun 730 is equipped with two engines: a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine has a maximum power output at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque output between 3600 and 5200 rpm. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine has a maximum power output at 5200 rpm and a maximum torque output between 2200 and 3400 rpm. Both engines feature DVVT technology and multi-point fuel injection, with aluminum alloy cylinder heads and cast iron cylinder blocks. They are paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT transmission.
I've been driving the Baojun 730 as my daily commuter, and as a frequent family car user, I firmly believe it's definitely an MPV, not a van. Vans typically refer to those with high chassis and boxy designs, like the Wuling Hongguang, mainly used for cargo transport or commercial purposes, offering a stiff and uncomfortable ride. The Baojun 730, however, is different. It's built on a sedan platform with a low chassis, providing stable handling, spacious interiors without the rudimentary feel of a van, and comfortable seats ideal for family trips with elderly and children. I often take my family on road trips, experiencing minimal bumps and enjoying fuel efficiency. Honestly, many mistakenly assume anything affordable is a van, but the Baojun 730 was designed from the outset as a family-oriented multi-purpose vehicle, with clear MPV attributes. During maintenance, mechanics often remark that its structure resembles a sedan more, making upkeep simpler without the common chassis issues found in vans. In short, the distinction is clear—if you prioritize family practicality, choose it without being misled by appearances.
From an automotive enthusiast's perspective, the Baojun 730 is classified as an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), not a van at all. The core characteristics of an MPV are a sedan chassis combined with micro-van space, with design emphasizing comfort and family use. For example, the 730's suspension tuning is softer, providing stable handling during high-speed cornering without the floatiness typical of vans like the Jinbei, which are more commercial-oriented with their heavy-duty build and boxy appearance. Vans are commonly used in logistics, offering strong load-bearing capacity but poor comfort, whereas the 730's rear seats can be folded flat to serve as a bed, making it convenient for trips. Technically speaking, its front-wheel-drive layout is safer and more fuel-efficient, while vans mostly use rear-wheel drive, which is noisier. Once you drive it, you'll notice the difference—the 730 has less plastic feel in the interior, much better sound insulation, and is more suitable for urban commuting. When making a purchase, don't just focus on price; consider the intended use. For family purposes, an MPV is the preferred choice.
