Content
- Quality and Reliability
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Technologies and Innovations
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Price and Availability
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Design and Appearance
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Maintenance and Warranty
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Market and Trends
- Model Selection in the Market
- What to Choose?
- Korean Cars
- Chinese Cars
- Conclusion
In recent years, once-popular Korean brands in the Russian market, such as Hyundai and Kia, have completely lost ground to Chinese brands. However, many car enthusiasts occasionally wonder which is better – to go to a dealership and buy a new car from China or to take a risk and search the secondary market for a “Korean” with minimal mileage, or even bring a car from abroad. The rise in popularity of Chinese and Korean cars in Russia. In the past, when discussing affordable cars, many immediately thought of Korean brands. These vehicles were indeed within reach for many and were primarily renowned for their reliability. They were frequently seen in fleets and car-sharing services. But luxury was not something to talk about. Inside, buyers found simple fabric seats, plenty of hard plastic, and not many options to look forward to.
Today, there are many Chinese cars available in the same budget segment. However, they offer a completely different level of comfort. Even in basic configurations, one can find adaptive cruise control, touchscreen multimedia, panoramic roofs, and even leather seats. What once seemed unattainable at such a price has become a reality.
Quality and Reliability
Korean Cars
As previously mentioned, Korean cars were indeed renowned for their reliability, which was one of their strong points. However, this reliability was largely ensured by minimalistic equipment—there was simply less to break. Simple engines, minimal complex electronics, modest materials in the cabin. However, this same minimalism had a downside: due to the abundance of hard plastic in the cabin, cars would eventually start to “chirp” over time—annoying creaks would appear.
Chinese Cars
Many car enthusiasts have developed a strong prejudice against “Chinese” cars due to the first models, which were often criticized for their unreliability and simplicity. However, since then, Chinese manufacturers like Chery, Haval, Exeed, and Changan have come a long way. Investments in technology and improvements in assembly lines have made modern Chinese cars much more reliable. Moreover, when purchasing a car from China, you can be assured that any warranty issues can always be resolved at an official dealer.
Technologies and Innovations
Korean Cars
Korean cars can indeed boast advanced technology and rich functionality, but truly advanced technologies are usually found only in expensive models costing several million rubles. For instance, the new Hyundai Santa Fe, equipped with cutting-edge safety systems, multimedia, and other options, costs about 6 million rubles.
Chinese Cars
Chinese brands, on the other hand, offer the same level of equipment at a more affordable price. For example, the Exeed VX, which is a class above the Santa Fe, boasts driver assistance systems, digital dashboards, and quality finishing. It also costs several hundred thousand rubles less. Moreover, Chinese cars often come with “winter” packages that include enhanced “warm” options, a larger washer fluid reservoir, additional sound insulation, and a reliable suspension capable of conquering any off-road terrain.
Price and Availability
Korean Cars
Previously, “Koreans” were celebrated for their affordability and offered many budget models. However, today the situation has changed: imported Korean cars can no longer boast low prices, and in some segments, their costs have nearly aligned with those of European brands. Even basic models are significantly more expensive than before, making them unaffordable for many buyers.
Chinese Cars
Cars from China, in contrast, remain among the most affordable on the market. In the budget segment, Chinese brands offer a wide selection of inexpensive models, appealing to a broad audience. Moreover, even luxury Chinese cars with premium options can often be purchased much cheaper than their Japanese, European, and American counterparts.
Design and Appearance
Korean Cars
Manufacturers from Korea pay great attention to the design of their cars. Modern models feature a stylish and elegant appearance that stands out against the more conservative European cars.
Chinese Cars
Chinese manufacturers also focus on design. Many models have a modern and attractive exterior that competes with Korean and even Japanese rivals. You can see this for yourself by visiting the FAVORIT MOTORS dealership.
Maintenance and Warranty
Korean Cars
Korean brands have a well-developed network of service centers across Russia. However, the warranty only applies to used cars. If you buy a vehicle imported from abroad, you will have to cover maintenance and repairs out of pocket.
Chinese Cars
Chinese manufacturers are actively expanding their dealer and service network in Russia. Official dealers, such as FAVORIT MOTORS, offer full warranties and quality service.
Market and Trends
In 2024, many Russians are not willing to overpay for a Korean brand. They prefer cars that not only impress with their level of equipment but also offer better service availability. Additionally, it cannot be denied that Chinese cars are now on par with Korean vehicles in terms of quality and, in terms of options and price, often surpass them.
Model Selection in the Market
FAVORIT MOTORS offers various vehicles from China available for purchase in Russia. We have compiled a small ranking of the best Chinese cars.
- Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max
- Type: Crossover
- Features and Benefits: modern design, spacious interior, economical engine, rich equipment, high level of safety, affordable price.
- Exeed TXL FL
- Type: Premium Crossover
- Features and Benefits: premium interior, powerful engine, all-wheel drive, innovative technologies, stylish design.
- Haval F7
- Type: Crossover
- Features and Benefits: powerful engine, high passability, modern multimedia system, advanced safety, spacious interior, fuel efficiency, reliability.
What to Choose?
Korean Cars
- Pros:
- High reliability
- Modern design
- Brand prestige
- Cons:
- Higher price
- Sometimes less rich basic equipment compared to Chinese counterparts
Chinese Cars
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Modern technologies
- Rich equipment
- Improved build quality
- Cons:
- Stereotypes about quality