Chinese car brands: full list
The Chinese auto industry began to take shape in the 1950s and the first major manufacturer was FAW (First Automotive Works), which produced the first Jiefang truck. In the 1980s, Chinese companies began to cooperate with Western companies, which gave Chinese automakers access to new technologies. The rapid growth of the automobile industry came in the 2000s, and since 2010 China has become the largest car market in the world. And although not so long ago we could not say that the badges and emblems of Chinese brands were visible on European streets, in recent years their exports have indeed multiplied.
Among the main advantages of products from China's automakers are:
- Affordable price. Most Chinese cars are cheaper than their foreign counterparts.
- Wide selection. The whole range of models is available: from budget to premium.
- Innovation. Active development of electric transportation, including thanks to government support.
- Technology. Modern models are equipped with advanced security and multimedia systems.
- Global presence. Chinese cars are actively exported to Europe, Asia and Africa.
In our review of the best and most famous brands of Chinese cars with photos, although there are more than 130 automakers in China, including large state-owned and private companies, as well as a large number of small enterprises. There are three main categories of manufacturers in the industry.
State-owned enterprises:
- FAW (First Automotive Works)
- SAIC Motor
- Dongfeng Motor
- BAIC (Beijing Automotive)
- Changan
Private companies:
- Geely
- Great Wall Motors
- BYD
- Chery
Electric vehicle startups and manufacturers:
- NIO
- XPeng
- Li Auto
- Leapmotor
Of course, these are by no means all brands of Chinese cars. There are also many regional companies and startups in China that produce cars for the local market or develop highly specialized models (e.g., mini electric cars). However, the market is gradually consolidating, and small manufacturers may leave due to high competition and increasing quality and safety requirements.
Chinese car brands: the most popular brands
Next, we will take a look at the most popular brands of the Chinese car industry and tell you about the most famous models of each manufacturer.
Chery
Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. - is one of the largest automakers in China, founded in 1997. The company is known for its crossovers and passenger cars. Chery is actively expanding exports, offering cars in more than 80 countries. The company is also engaged in the development of electric vehicles and hybrid models.
The most popular model: Tiggo 8. Chery Tiggo 8 is the brand's flagship crossover, which gained popularity due to its spacious interior, modern technologies and affordable price. The model is available in various configurations and is characterized by a high level of safety and comfort.
Main characteristics of Chery Tiggo 8:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo (147 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo (170-197 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT variator.
- Drive type: front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Top speed: About 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 7.5-8.5 l/100 km (depending on the engine and type of drive).
The Tiggo 8 is one of the most competitive Chinese crossovers in the international market, and is especially popular in Asian countries.
Geely
Geely is a privately owned Chinese automaker that started in 1986. Its emblem is easily recognized by most car enthusiasts. The company actively develops international projects and owns such brands as Volvo and Lotus. Geely offers modern cars that are characterized by high build quality and modern technologies.
The most popular model: Geely Coolray. This is a compact crossover with a bright design and high-tech features. The model is aimed at young people and is one of the company's sales leaders due to a successful combination of price and quality.
The main characteristics of Geely Coolray:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo engine (150 hp).
- Transmission: 7-speed robotized (dual-clutch).
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 195 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 6.4 l/100 km.
Coolray has gained popularity due to its modern design, rich equipment and dynamic performance.
Haval
Haval is a subsidiary brand of Great Wall Motors, specializing in the production of crossovers and SUVs. The company actively promotes its models in international markets, offering reliable cars with rich functionality.
The most popular model: Haval H6. It is the best-selling crossover in China and the flagship of the brand. It is characterized by a spacious interior, modern driver assistance systems and stylish design.
Haval H6 main features:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo (150 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo (204 hp).
- Transmission: 7-speed robotized (dual-clutch).
- Drive type: front or all-wheel drive.
- Top speed: 200 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 7.4-8.1 l/100 km.
The H6 is known for its high level of safety and rich equipment even in basic configurations.
BYD
BYD (Build Your Dreams) is one of the largest manufacturers of electric vehicles and hybrids in the world. The company actively develops battery technologies and has established itself as a leader in the segment of environmentally friendly transportation.
The most popular model: BYD Song Plus. It is a mid-size crossover offered both with a traditional internal combustion engine and in a hybrid version. It is characterized by modern design and high-tech equipment.
Key features of the BYD Song Plus:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo engine (181 hp) or hybrid setup.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic.
- Drive type: front.
- Maximum speed: 180-200 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 5.9-7.2 l/100 km (in gasoline version).
The Song Plus stands out with its stylish design and innovative solutions, making it one of the most popular crossovers in China.
Great Wall
Great Wall Motors is the largest Chinese concern, a manufacturer of SUVs and pickup trucks. The company is known for its reliable and rugged vehicles, which are oriented for active lifestyle and work in difficult conditions.
The most popular model of the automobile concern: Poer. Great Wall Poer is a pickup truck that combines utility and comfort of an SUV. The model is popular due to its cross-country ability and rich equipment.
Main characteristics of Great Wall Poer:
- Engines: 2.0-liter turbodiesel (150-190 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic.
- Drive type: rear or all-wheel drive.
- Maximum speed: 160-180 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 8.5-9.5 l/100 km.
The Poer is popular with buyers looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle for both work and leisure.
Changan
Changan Automobile is one of China's oldest and largest automakers, founded in 1862. The company produces a wide range of vehicles, including crossovers, sedans and electric cars. Changan actively develops autonomous driving technologies and cooperates with international brands.
The most popular model: Changan CS75 Plus. This is a modern crossover, which is characterized by stylish design, spacious interior, extensive list of options for driver and passengers. It has become a sales leader thanks to its combination of price and quality.
Main features of Changan CS75 Plus:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo (178 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo (233 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 8-speed automatic.
- Drive type: front or all-wheel drive.
- Maximum speed: 190-210 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 7.5-8.2 l/100 km.
The CS75 Plus features a high level of safety and state-of-the-art multimedia equipment.
FAW
Our review of "Chinese-made car brands" would be incomplete without this brand, although little is known about it outside of China. (First Automotive Works) is China's oldest automaker, founded in 1953. The company produces a wide range of vehicles including trucks, sedans and crossovers. The brand actively exports its vehicles overseas, which are known for their reliability.
The most popular model: Bestune T77. It is a mid-size crossover with a futuristic design and a high level of technology. It is equipped with advanced driver assistance features and artificial intelligence.
Bestune T77 Key Features:
- Engines: 1.2-liter turbo (143 hp) or 1.5-liter turbo (169 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed robotized.
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 6.9-7.4 l/100 km.
The T77 has been recognized for its stylish appearance and rich equipment.
Dongfeng
Dongfeng Motor Corporation is a well-established Chinese car brand and one of China's largest automakers, founded in 1969. The company manufactures cars, trucks and buses, and cooperates with international brands for joint production of vehicles.
The most popular model: Dongfeng AX7. This is a mid-size crossover with a spacious interior and modern technologies. The model is characterized by comfort and thoughtful design, which makes it popular among family buyers.
Main characteristics of Dongfeng AX7:
- Engines: 1.6-liter turbo engine (167 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 7.2 l/100 km.
AX7 attracts attention with its stylish design and user-friendly controls.
JAC
JAC Motors (Jianghuai Automobile Co.) is a Chinese automaker founded in 1964. The company produces passenger cars, commercial vehicles and electric cars. JAC is actively developing its export business and strives for international recognition.
The most popular model: JAC S7 is the brand's flagship crossover, offering a spacious interior and modern equipment. The model is aimed at family buyers who appreciate comfort and safety.
The main characteristics of the JAC S7:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo (174 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo (190 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 8.0-8.5 l/100 km.
The S7 is recognized for its roomy cabin and good value for money.
GAC
GAC Group (Guangzhou Automobile Group) is a large Chinese automaker that started its operations in 1997. The company produces a wide range of cars and is actively developing the electric vehicle segment. GAC exports cars to Asia, Europe and South America.
Most popular model: GAC GS4 is a compact crossover with modern design and good technical equipment. The model offers a comfortable driving experience and an extensive list of options.
GAC GS4 Key Features:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo engine (169 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 7-speed robotized.
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 7.3 l/100 km.
NIO
Many brands of Chinese passenger cars have only recently emerged. NIO is one of the leaders in electric car manufacturing in China, founded in 2014. The company aims to compete with global brands such as Tesla by offering high-tech electric cars with premium design and features. NIO also offers a unique battery swapping service instead of traditional charging, which significantly speeds up recharging.
Most popular model: NIO ES6 is a mid-size electric crossover that combines high performance with a luxurious interior. The model is aimed at urban users who prefer eco-friendly transportation.
NIO ES6 Key Features:
- Electric motors: two motors with a total output of up to 544 hp.
- Range: up to 610 km (on the NEDC cycle).
- Transmission: single-stage (electric motor).
- Drive type: all-wheel drive.
- Top speed: 200 km/h.
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: about 4.7 seconds.
Xpeng
Xpeng Motors is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2014. The company specializes in the production of high-tech electric vehicles with a focus on autonomous driving and intelligent systems. Xpeng actively exports its vehicles to Europe and aims to conquer the global market.
The most popular model: Xpeng P7. It is a premium electric sedan that offers advanced technology and stylish design. The model is positioned as a competitor to the Tesla Model 3 and is the first modification of an auto with artificial intelligence.
Xpeng P7 Key Features:
- Electric motors: one motor (196 hp) or two motors (430 hp) in the all-wheel drive version.
- Range: up to 706 km (on the NEDC cycle).
- Transmission: single-stage.
- Drive type: front or all-wheel drive.
- Maximum speed: 170-200 km/h.
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.3 seconds (all-wheel drive version).
Li Auto
Many Chinese car brands were born as startupsi. Li Auto is a prime example of this. It is a Chinese manufacturer of electric cars with extended range, founded in 2015. The company is known for its hybrid models.
Most popular model: Li ONE is a luxury hybrid crossover aimed at family buyers. It is equipped with intelligent systems and offers a spacious interior.
Li ONE Key Features:
- Engines: electric motor and 1.2-liter gasoline generator (177 hp).
- Range: up to 800 km (in hybrid mode).
- Transmission: single-stage.
- Drive type: all-wheel drive.
- Top speed: 170 km/h.
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: 6.5 seconds.
Hongqi
Hongqi (Hongqi) is China's oldest premium car brand, founded in 1958. Hongqi translates as "Red Banner" and the brand has long been associated with official government cars. In recent years, the company has begun producing modern sedans and crossovers for the broader market.
The most popular model: Hongqi is a car with a sedan body with a rather classic design and at the same time equipped with the most advanced technologies. The model is positioned as a competitor to the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Hongqi H9 main features:
- Engines: 2.0-liter turbo engine (252 hp) or 3.0-liter V6 (283 hp).
- Transmission: 7-speed robotized.
- Drive type: rear.
- Top speed: 250 km/h.
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: 7.1 seconds.
- Fuel consumption: 8.0-10.5 l/100 km.
The H9 stands out with its luxurious interior and high level of comfort, making it popular with affluent buyers.
Ora
Ora is a brand of Great Wall Motors, specializing in stylish and affordable electric cars. The brand targets young people and urban dwellers by offering compact cars with modern features.
The most popular model: Ora Good Cat. This is a compact electric car with retro design and modern technology. The model is aimed at urban users and became popular due to its unique appearance.
Key Features of Ora Good Cat:
- Electric motor: 143 hp.
- Range: up to 500 km (on the NEDC cycle).
- Transmission: single-stage.
- Drive type: front.
- Top speed: 160 km/h.
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: 8.5 seconds.
Good Cat has been a hit with its design, low energy consumption and affordable price, making it popular with young buyers and families.
Wuling
Wuling Motors is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in China, founded in 1982. The company specializes in the production of passenger cars, vans and compact commercial vehicles. The SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture has made Wuling the market leader in low-cost city cars and electric vehicles.
The most popular model: Wuling Hongguang Mini EV. An ultra-compact electric car that has become a real hit on the Chinese market due to its affordable price and practicality. The car is ideal for urban use and short trips.
The main characteristics of the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV:
- Electric motor: 27 hp.
- Range: 120-170 km (depending on the version).
- Transmission: single-stage.
- Drive type: rear.
- Maximum speed: 100 km/h.
- Acceleration time to 50 km/h: about 7 seconds.
WEY
WEY is a premium brand of Great Wall Motors, established in 2016. WEY specializes in the production of luxury crossovers and SUVs with a focus on high build quality and advanced technology. The brand aims to compete with premium brands both at home and abroad.
The most popular model: WEY Mocha (Coffee 01). WEY flagship crossover with advanced driver assistance systems and modern interior. The model is positioned as a high-tech crossover with premium comfort and dynamics.
Main features of WEY Mocha (Coffee 01):
- Engines: 2.0-liter turbo engine (227 hp) or hybrid version.
- Transmission: 9-speed robotized.
- Drive type: front or all-wheel drive.
- Top speed: 200 km/h.
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: 7.5 seconds.
- Fuel consumption: 6.8 l/100 km (in gasoline version).
The Mocha offers a luxurious interior, state-of-the-art safety systems and Level 2 autonomous driving features.
Roewe
Roewe is a brand owned by SAIC Motor Company, founded in 2006. Roewe cars have a sense of European design heritage, while using purely Chinese technologies in production. The company offers a wide range of sedans and crossovers. The brand is aimed at modern families and young people seeking innovation and style.
The most popular model: Roewe RX5. It is a mid-size crossover that was one of the first cars to be equipped with an Internet-based IoT system. The model offers modern technology, spacious interior and stylish design.
Key features of the Roewe RX5:
- Engines: 1.5-liter turbo (169 hp) or 2.0-liter turbo (220 hp).
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic or 7-speed robotized.
- Drive type: front or all-wheel drive.
- Maximum speed: 190-210 km/h.
- Fuel consumption: 6.5-7.5 l/100 km.
The RX5 has become popular due to its combination of technology, reliability and competitive price.
Where to buy Chinese cars
The fastest and safest way to own a Chinese car is through PLC Auction online auction. This is an international auction platform specializing in the sale and delivery of cars from various regions of the world, including China. The company provides a full range of services, from vehicle selection to turnkey delivery anywhere in the world.
Benefits of PLC Auction:
- Reliability and Experience. With more than 10 years of experience, PLC Auction has established itself as a reliable partner in international car shipping. The company concludes official contracts with clients, clearly stipulating its obligations, which ensures financial and legal security of transactions.
- A wide selection of vehicles. The platform provides access to an extensive catalog of vehicles from the USA, Europe, Korea, UAE and China. Customers can choose cars of different makes, models and configurations to suit their individual preferences and budget.
- Transparency and safety. Prior to purchase, our specialists conduct a thorough check of the history and technical condition of each vehicle, including checking for stranded mileage, hidden damage or replaced components. This protects customers from possible risks and additional costs.
- Convenient and functional platform. The website interface is designed for comfortable bidding, providing detailed descriptions, photos and videos of each lot. Customers can track the status of car delivery in real time through a personal account, which provides full control over the process.
- Efficient logistics and attractive prices. The well-established logistics network allows minimizing transportation costs and ensuring fast delivery of cars anywhere in the world. Prices for the company's services are competitive, which makes the purchase economically favorable for customers.
- Comprehensive turnkey service. PLC Auction takes care of all stages of the process - from the selection and purchase of a vehicle at auction to its delivery, customs clearance and registration. This allows customers to avoid the complexities associated with the international purchase and delivery of vehicles.
- Positive feedback from clients. Many customers note the professionalism of the PLC Auction team, convenience of service and transparency of transactions. Reviews emphasize that the company turns the complicated process of buying a car abroad into a simple and understandable procedure.
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