DR Automobiles, the company that has been selling Chinese-based vehicles in Italy since 2006, has just announced the creation of a new brand called Ickx. Its first vehicle, the K2, is a tough yet suspiciously familiar looking SUV that’s ready for off-roading.
Based on the BAIC BJ40, the SUV has design cues that are highly reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler, with a grille that bears some similarities to Range Rovers. However, Ickx points out that the grille is made entirely of carbon fiber to give it an imposing look.
Under the grille, the plastic bumper and skid plate help protect the K2 off-road. Along with the big, 20-inch wheels, they contribute to a 37-degree approach angle. That is matched with a 31-degree departure angle, a breakover angle of 23 degrees, and 8.6-inches (22 cm) ground clearance.
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Helping it to handle the terrain is a double-wishbone front suspension, and a solid rear axle. It also makes use of electronic locking front and rear differentials, and rear-biased part-time all-wheel-drive.
The K2 measures in at 182-inches (4,645 mm) in length, which makes it around 5.5-inches (140 mm) shorter than a four-door Jeep Wrangler. It weighs in at 4,806 lbs (2,180 kg) and can tow up to 3,307 lbs (1,500 kg).
Under the hood, there is just one engine option, a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine. It makes 159 hp (119 kW/162 PS) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque, and is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Together, they can convey the K2 up to a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h), and the truck returns an estimated 22.8 MPG (10.3 L/100 km).
Inside, the Ickx K2 is well appointed, with leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and more. It also comes with a Wrangler-style removable hardtop.
Although the base price of €54,500 ($60,180 USD at current exchange rates) is quite high, the Ickx K2 is essentially fully loaded, leaving buyers with only the option to select the color of their SUV. Moreover, rumors suggest that the company is preparing to launch the K2 in other European markets, including Spain, in the near future.
