Chinese cars have gone from novelty to mainstream in Australia. In 2025, Chinese brands accounted for over 15% of new car sales - and that share is growing. Here's everything you need to know before buying.
The Major Chinese Brands in Australia
Four major Chinese brands are now established in Australia: MG (since 2018), GWM/Haval (since 2008), BYD (since 2022), and Chery (since 2023). Each offers different strengths - MG for proven reliability, BYD for EV technology, Chery for value, and Haval for heritage.
Pricing Advantage
Chinese cars typically cost 20-40% less than equivalent Japanese/Korean models. A Chery Tiggo 4 starts at $25,990 driveaway - about $8,000 less than a comparable Hyundai Kona. This pricing advantage comes from lower labor costs, government subsidies, and vertical integration (especially for BYD's batteries).
Warranty Coverage
All major Chinese brands offer 7-year warranties - longer than most Japanese brands (typically 5 years). Chery offers 7 years/150,000km, while MG and Haval offer 7 years/unlimited km. This is a major selling point and provides good peace of mind.
Parts Availability: The Big Concern
The #1 concern with Chinese cars in Australia is parts availability. While maintenance items (filters, brake pads) are usually in stock, body panels and specialized components can take 2-6 months. Some owners have had cars written off after minor accidents due to parts unavailability. This is improving as dealer networks expand.
Resale Value
Chinese cars typically depreciate faster than Japanese brands. A 3-year-old MG ZS retains about 55-60% of its value, vs 65-70% for a Toyota Corolla. Chery is newer so data is limited, but early signs suggest 50-55% retention. This is the trade-off for the lower purchase price.
Final Verdict
Chinese cars offer genuine value in 2026 Australia. If you're buying new and planning to keep the car 5+ years, the savings can be significant. Just go in with eyes open about parts availability and resale value. For most buyers, MG or Chery are the safest choices.