Borgward BX5

The 2024 Borgward BX5 gets a well-appointed interior. It's more about functionality rather than being premium. The cabin is upholstered in a black theme including the seats and dashboard. The entry-level model gets fabric seats. Some of the higher models get faux-leather seats. Hard plastic has been widely used in the cabin, particularly on the door insides, to keep production costs low. It affects the overall look and feel of the car. The cabin gets a number of storage spaces including bottle holders on doors. The entry-level model comes with manual air-conditioning while the higher trims get a single-zone automatic climate control. The dashboard is dominated by an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The display is rather dull.

The styling of the 2024 Borgward BX5 is simple but it still manages to exude grace and strength. There's a youthful vibrancy to the design. The car gets a distinctive grille with the Borgward logo in the centre. It's flanked by sharp-looking headlight units. The wing-lines accentuate the masculine shoulders and lend the sides a very dynamic profile. The overall profile of the 2024 Borgward BX5 is coupe-like and the roofline slopes down at the back. But it doesn't sacrifice on the functionality of an SUV. The car gets wide doors for easy ingress and egress. The 190mm ground clearance is typical for most compact SUVs. It offers a commanding view of the road. The higher models get a panoramic sunroof.   

The 2024 Borgward BX5's cabin is spacious. The two front seats get the maximum legroom, like most crossovers and compact SUVs. Some of the top models get electrically adjustable front seats. The windscreen is wide and lends an expansive view. The rear seat has sufficient space but is suitable for two adults only. Accommodating three persons will make the seat crammed. The sloping roofline also eats into the headroom and taller passengers may find their heads brushing against the ceiling. The high ground clearance helps in negotiating road bumps and potholes. But the suspension is a bit on the stiffer side and some impact is felt inside the cabin. Also, the sound insulation should have been better.  

The 2024 Borgward BX5 is hauled by a turbocharged, four-cylinder, 1.8-litre petrol engine that produces 190 PS/228 Nm. The motor is mated to a six-speed all-wheel-drive automatic. The engine is powerful and responsive, though the transmission is a bit delayed. Handling the 2024 Borgward BX5 is easy. Its compact size helps in turning corners easily. The car takes time to rev. On the highway, the Borgward BX5 comes across as a nice cruiser. The ride is stable.      

The 2024 Borgward BX5 comes with a number of driver-assist features and safety equipment. These include a reverse parking camera, parking sensors, multiple airbags, autonomous emergency braking, traction control, and an automatic hold system. The tyres have great traction and stop the car immediately. A 360-degree camera would have eliminated all blind spots. 

With a starting price of AED 84,000, the 2024 Borgward BX5 is among the most affordable cars in its segment. It comes with a powerful engine and is easy to handle. The cabin is spacious. The company has a very limited service network and that will affect maintenance and availability of spares. But buyers looking for an inexpensive daily commuting SUV will find the 2024 Borgward BX5 an attractive option.