The vehicle retail platform Carwow has shared their picks for the most exciting Chinese cars that are set to go on sale in the UK before the end of 2024.
Despite most Chinese car brands only recently entering the UK market, the company highlighted that nearly a third of drivers would consider buying a new model produced in the country due to their affordable prices.
Mat Watson, Chief Content Officer, noted that one of the best models from China that will launch later in 2024 is the MG Cyberster, a sleek coupe reminiscent of UK sportscars from the 1960s.
He explained: “Yes – MG is considered a Chinese brand, having been bought by the Chinese state-owned automaker SAIC Motor Corporation Limited in 2007.
“This car recently won ‘Most Anticipated New Car’ at Carwow’s 2024 UK Car of the Year Awards. It’s genuinely gorgeous; imagine a Mazda MX-5 that’s been given a makeover for a starring role in a hit sci-fi film.”
Going on sale in August 2024, the MG Cyberster is a low-slung sportscar that is similar in size to the Jaguar F-Type and has a distinctive appearance, thanks in part to features such as the arrow-shaped rear light clusters and split air intake.
The former UK-owned car company has yet to state just how powerful the Cyberster will be, however the fastest version is said to be capable of accelerating to 60mph in under three seconds.
Prices are also currently unclear; however, it is rumoured that the latest MG will start at around £50,000, making it slightly less than a Ford Mustang GT.
Mat also predicted that a lot of UK drivers will be interested in the BYD Seal, a Chinese executive car that rivals the popular Tesla Model 3.
He added: “BYD has been making waves since going on sale in the UK last year, and already has three models on the road. The aquatic animal-themed Dolphin and Seal joined the, well, less-aquatic-themed Atto 3 to provide a range of electric cars with wide appeal.
“The Seal is the most interesting of the lot, because it looks good inside and out and is decent to drive, making it a genuine alternative to the Tesla Model 3.”
Finally, Matt suggested that 2024 is also set to see another Chinese brand enter the market, with plans to outsell mainstream European companies in a matter of years with both petrol and electric models.
He continued: “The Omoda 5 is a family SUV with quirky styling and a range of about 280 miles in electric form (a petrol version will also be sold). That alone isn’t enough to make it stand out from the crowd, but what makes Omoda interesting is its ambitious growth plans – it wants to outsell brands like Citroen within just a couple of years.
“Whether its modern looks and smart interior will be enough to tempt buyers out of more familiar alternatives remains to be seen, but it’s backed by Chinese automotive giant Chery, so it’s in a good place.”
