Price is the number-one factor when it comes to buying a new car. But where that car is assembled is neither here nor there for British consumers: according to YouGov, more than half of us would consider an emerging Chinese brand – if it offered competitive pricing. As a result, new entrants such as Jaecoo, Omoda, Chery and BYD are exploding in popularity, taking more than 10 per cent of the new-car market in 2026.
Chinese car prices can be around 10 per cent lower than for their European, American, Korean and Japanese rivals, but are the former really cheaper to own? Research by our sister brand Carwow has already revealed Chinese cars can be trickier and more expensive to insure – so how does that translate into other running costs, such as servicing, fuel and depreciation?
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