BAIC’S MVP

Benjie Paras may be best known for his years on the basketball court, but much of his time these days is spent on the road. Between his commitments as an actor and comedian and his responsibilities as a father, the former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star has come to appreciate a vehicle that can handle both work and family duties.

His choice is a BAIC SUV, which he says has become his regular companion for trips around Metro Manila and occasional drives outside the city.

“It’s my everyday car,” Paras said. “When I go to work in the city or out of town, I don’t worry about the cargo space and it’s economical. And I feel safe when I’m driving with my kids on board.”

The former basketball star places considerable importance on comfort, particularly because his schedule sometimes requires long hours behind the wheel.

Anyone familiar with Metro Manila traffic knows that even a relatively short journey can consume a good portion of the day. Paras says his BAIC helps make those trips more bearable through its cabin comfort and quiet interior.

“My body doesn’t hurt from a long drive. It’s so quiet that you’ll forget about the traffic. And it’s easy to maintain,” he said.

Maintenance is another consideration for Paras, who uses the vehicle frequently enough to appreciate the importance of manageable ownership costs.

Although he enjoys the SUV’s appearance and equipment, Paras appears particularly interested in features that serve a practical purpose.

Among those he cited is the vehicle’s automatic emergency braking system, which he described as capable of stopping the vehicle when a collision appears imminent.

“It automatically stops when you’re about to hit something,” Paras said.

He also appreciates the automatic door-locking function, which provides additional reassurance whenever he leaves the vehicle.

These conveniences have become part of his daily routine, especially when his children accompany him.

Paras said the passenger accommodations and available cargo space make the SUV useful for family outings. His children have also developed a preference for the vehicle whenever they travel together.

“They’re always excited to use my car whenever we go out,” he said.

The SUV’s styling has also made an impression on Paras, who believes its equipment and appearance compare favorably with vehicles from more established premium brands.

“The style and features are way updated. It’s like owning a European car,” he said.

His experience comes as BAIC Philippines continues to widen its presence in the local automotive market through additional dealerships and a broader selection of SUVs.

Among its offerings are the B30e Dune Hybrid Off-Roader and B40 Pro TrailMaster. The lineup also includes the B40e Trailmaster rEV and the larger B60e Beaumont rEV.

Other models include the B40 Ragnar diesel SUV, B60 Beaumont diesel hybrid, B80 Wagon luxury SUV and X55 Verve subcompact sport crossover.

Paras, meanwhile, places greater weight on his own experience as an owner than on comparisons of technical specifications.

When asked what he would tell executives and businessmen who are considering an SUV, his response was straightforward.

“All you’re looking for in an SUV are here,” he said.