Bestune B70S: The Evolution of FAW’s Coupe-Style Crossover

Bestune

The Bestune B70S represents a short but notable chapter in the evolution of FAW Group’s Bestune brand. Introduced as a sporty, coupe-inspired crossover derived from the long-running Bestune B70, the B70S was designed to blend sedan-like driving dynamics with SUV styling and practicality.

Produced between 2022 and 2025, the B70S reflected the growing popularity of coupe-SUVs in China, competing with models like the Mazda CX-4. Though its lifecycle was relatively brief, the B70S showcased Bestune’s efforts to diversify its lineup and appeal to younger buyers with sportier design and technology.

This article explores the full evolution of the B70S, including its origins, model years, trim levels, specifications, and future outlook.

Origins and Development (2020–2021)

The B70S traces its roots to the third-generation Bestune B70 sedan, introduced in 2020 on FAW’s FMA (FAW Modular Architecture) platform. This modular platform allowed Bestune to develop multiple body styles from a shared foundation.

The B70S was conceived as a “coupe crossover” derivative of the sedan rather than a traditional SUV. It adopted:

  • A lower, more aerodynamic roofline
  • Raised ride height compared to the sedan
  • Shorter wheelbase (2750 mm vs. 2800 mm in the sedan)

The model debuted at the 2021 Guangzhou Auto Show, signaling Bestune’s entry into the fast-growing sporty crossover segment.

Design inspiration came partly from coupe-SUVs like the Mazda CX-4, with Bestune aiming to combine style and affordability.

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Launch and First Model Year (2022)

Production Start: 2022

The B70S officially launched in China in March 2022, marking the beginning of its sole generation.

  • Production span: 2022–2025
  • Market positioning: Compact coupe-style crossover SUV

Initial Trim Levels (2022)

While detailed official trim naming varies by market and translation, the 2022 B70S lineup was structured around engine and equipment tiers, commonly grouped into:

1.5T Models (Entry to Mid-Level Trims)

  • Base / Standard Edition
  • Elite Edition
  • Luxury Edition

2.0T Models (Higher-End Trims)

  • Premium Edition
  • Flagship Edition

These trims were differentiated primarily by:

  • Engine choice
  • Technology features
  • Interior materials and comfort equipment

Powertrain Options

The 2022 B70S launched with two turbocharged petrol engines:

  • 1.5T inline-4
    • Output: ~169–170 hp
    • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch (DCT)
  • 2.0T inline-4
    • Output: ~224 hp
    • Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Both configurations used front-wheel drive, with no all-wheel-drive option offered.

Key Features (2022)

  • Triple-screen interior layout:
    • 12.3-inch digital cluster
    • 12.3-inch infotainment screen
    • 7-inch climate control touchscreen
  • Leather and Alcantara upholstery
  • 3D holographic virtual assistant (shared with Bestune T77)

Special Editions and Expansion (2022–2023)

Shortly after launch, Bestune introduced special editions to boost the model’s appeal.

Black Warrior Edition (2022)

One of the most notable variants was the Black Warrior Edition, launched in mid-2022.

Features included:

  • Blacked-out exterior trim
  • Sportier styling accents
  • Unique wheels and interior finishes

This edition targeted younger buyers seeking a more aggressive design.

Model Refinement (2023–2024)

Production Years: 2023–2024

During this period, the B70S saw incremental updates rather than major redesigns.

Trim Structure Simplification

As with many Chinese-market vehicles, Bestune gradually streamlined the lineup:

  • Fewer overlapping trims
  • Clearer distinction between 1.5T and 2.0T variants
  • Increased focus on mid- and high-level trims

Standardization of Features

Higher-end features became more widely available across trims:

  • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
  • Improved infotainment software
  • Enhanced connectivity

Technical Specifications (2023–2024)

  • Power range: 169–224 hp
  • Fuel consumption:
    • 1.5T: ~6.7 L/100 km
    • 2.0T: ~7.2 L/100 km
  • Top speed:
    • Up to 200 km/h for 2.0T models

Despite these updates, the core mechanical package remained unchanged.

Final Production Phase (2025)

End of Production: 2025

The B70S was discontinued around 2025, ending a relatively short lifecycle of approximately three years.

Reasons for Discontinuation

Several factors likely contributed:

  1. Market Competition
    The coupe-SUV segment became increasingly crowded with newer, more advanced models.
  2. Platform Evolution
    Bestune began shifting focus toward newer vehicles and updated architectures.
  3. Overlap with Other Models
    The B70S overlapped with other Bestune SUVs such as the T55 and T77.

Design Philosophy and Characteristics

Coupe-SUV Styling

The B70S emphasized a sporty aesthetic:

  • Sloping roofline
  • Aggressive front fascia
  • Low ride height compared to traditional SUVs

Interior Technology

The triple-screen layout was a standout feature, positioning the B70S as a tech-forward vehicle in its price segment.

Driving Experience

Although styled as a sporty crossover, the B70S remained:

  • Front-wheel drive only
  • Focused on comfort and efficiency rather than performance

Relationship to the Bestune B70

The B70S is best understood as a crossover reinterpretation of the B70 sedan:

  • Shared platform (FMA)
  • Shared engines and interior layout
  • Different body style and market positioning

This strategy allowed Bestune to maximize platform efficiency while expanding into new segments.

Complete Timeline of the Bestune B70S

2021

  • Debut at Guangzhou Auto Show

2022

  • Official launch in China
  • Trim lineup introduced:
    • Base / Elite / Luxury (1.5T)
    • Premium / Flagship (2.0T)
  • Black Warrior Edition released

2023

  • Minor updates and trim consolidation
  • Feature standardization

2024

  • Continued production with minimal changes

2025

  • Discontinuation of the model

Global Presence and Market Reception

The B70S was primarily sold in China, with limited export presence.

Market Position

  • Affordable coupe-SUV
  • Positioned below premium competitors
  • Targeted younger buyers

Reception

The model was generally noted for:

Strengths:

  • Attractive styling
  • High-tech interior
  • Competitive pricing

Weaknesses:

  • Lack of AWD
  • Limited brand recognition outside China
  • Short product lifecycle

Future Outlook

Although the B70S itself has been discontinued, its influence continues within Bestune’s strategy.

1. Continued Platform Use

The FMA platform remains a key foundation for future Bestune models.

2. Shift Toward Electrification

Bestune is increasingly focusing on:

  • Electric vehicles (e.g., NAT, E01)
  • Hybrid technologies

3. Evolution of Coupe-SUV Concept

Future models may revisit the coupe-SUV formula with:

  • Improved efficiency
  • Electrified powertrains
  • More advanced driver-assistance systems

The Bestune B70S stands as a concise but meaningful experiment in blending sedan DNA with SUV styling. Produced from 2022 to 2025, it offered a range of trims built around two turbocharged engines and a technology-rich interior.

While it never became a long-term staple in Bestune’s lineup, the B70S demonstrated the brand’s willingness to innovate and adapt to shifting market trends. Its coupe-inspired design, modern interior, and accessible pricing made it a competitive option in its segment—if only for a brief period.

Ultimately, the B70S represents a transitional model: one that bridged traditional combustion-powered vehicles and the increasingly electrified future of the Bestune brand.

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