Top Chinese Cars Available in the UK: Tested and Reviewed

Are you curious about the latest offerings from Chinese automotive manufacturers? The pace at which Chinese cars are evolving is remarkable. Once known for models that mimicked existing designs, today’s Chinese vehicles compete fiercely with established brands from Europe, Japan, and Korea. Let’s explore the top Chinese models available in the UK that combine affordability with quality and performance.

1. XPENG G6

Rating: 8/10

• Design: 7
• Interior: 8
• Performance: 8
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 8

Pros:

• Impressive range and quick charging capabilities
• Competitive pricing compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y
• Spacious and refined interior

Cons:

• Unremarkable exterior design
• Overloaded touchscreen controls
• Stiff ride quality

Best for: A seamless user experience.
The XPENG G6, released in 2024, is a formidable alternative to the Tesla Model Y, delivering high-quality tech, reasonable pricing, and a commendable ride.

2. BYD Dolphin Surf

Rating: 7/10

• Design: 7
• Interior: 7
• Performance: 6
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 9

Pros:

• Generous standard features
• Impressive electric range relative to cost
• Feels spacious like larger vehicles

Cons:

• Less responsive brake pedal
• Limited to four seats
• Less engaging for enthusiastic drivers

Best for: Urban driving.
The BYD Dolphin Surf, a close contender to the Dacia Spring, excels as a city car while offering a more refined experience than many of its competitors.

3. MG 4 EV

Rating: 8/10

• Design: 8
• Interior: 7
• Performance: 7
• Ride & Handling: 8
• Costs: 8

Pros:

• Excellent overall value
• Spacious interior for its class
• Enjoyable driving dynamics

Cons:

• Needs improvement for driver assistance features
• Inferior interior materials compared to rivals
• Minor usability issues

Best for: Affordable electric hatchbacks.
The MG 4 EV has redefined the brand’s reputation, delivering a well-rounded and fun hatchback experience at an unbeatable price.

4. MG HS

Rating: 7/10

• Design: 8
• Interior: 6
• Performance: 7
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 8

Pros:

• Attractive starting price
• PHEV option offers 75 miles on electric
• Quiet and comfortable driving experience

Cons:

• Pure petrol variant lacks sufficient power
• Driver assistance systems could frustrate
• Rivals outperform in handling

Best for: Company car drivers.
The MG HS has become one of the UK’s best-selling SUVs, delivering high value and great features for its price.

5. BYD Dolphin

Rating: 7/10

• Design: 6
• Interior: 6
• Performance: 7
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 8

Pros:

• Comfortable interior space
• Strong electric range for the price
• Pliable suspension enhances driveability

Cons:

• Uninspiring infotainment design
• Lack of excitement in steering response
• Potential traction issues in front wheels

Best for: Electric superminis.
The BYD Dolphin offers a variety of power options, making it an attractive choice for compact electric car shoppers.

6. MG Cyberster

Rating: 7/10

• Design: 9
• Interior: 7
• Performance: 8
• Ride & Handling: 6
• Costs: 6

Pros:

• Eye-catching supercar aesthetics
• Respectable range for a sports car
• Great horsepower-to-price ratio

Cons:

• Higher driving position than traditional sports cars
• Frustrating infotainment and driver assistance features
• Inconsistent body control

Best for: Supercar-style driving experience.
With its bold design, the MG Cyberster marks a new era for the brand, fusing style with performance.

7. BYD Atto 3

Rating: 6/10

• Design: 6
• Interior: 6
• Performance: 7
• Ride & Handling: 6
• Costs: 8

Pros:

• Excellent value for features included
• Unique and spacious interior design
• Comfortable ride quality

Cons:

• Complicated climate control interface
• Lacks polish in its road manners
• Questionable smartphone integration

Best for: Creative interior design.
The BYD Atto 3 impresses with its spaciousness and quirky features, although it has some usability quirks.

8. MG ZS

Rating: 6/10

• Design: 5
• Interior: 6
• Performance: 6
• Ride & Handling: 6
• Costs: 7

Pros:

• Ample space at a low price point
• Strong real-world fuel economy
• Good performance for a hybrid crossover

Cons:

• Hefty steering
• Firm ride leads to discomfort
• Distracting infotainment system

Best for: Budget-conscious consumers.
The MG ZS provides a mix of practicality and affordability, making it a solid choice among hybrid vehicles.

9. BYD Seal

Rating: 6/10

• Design: 7
• Interior: 6
• Performance: 7
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 6

Pros:

• Excellent high-speed performance
• Strong value proposition
• Ample power for the price

Cons:

• Poor user interface experience
• Inconsistent rapid charging capability
• Flawed driver assistance systems

Best for: A premium image without the premium price.
The BYD Seal stands as a capable electric saloon with impressive stats and a focus on comfort.

10. Leapmotor T03

Rating: 6/10

• Design: 5
• Interior: 5
• Performance: 5
• Ride & Handling: 7
• Costs: 9

Pros:

• Compact yet spacious enough for adults
• Adequate motorway performance
• One of the most affordable electric cars available

Cons:

• Lack of physical controls can be inconvenient
• Complex ADAS features can be bothersome
• Unstable ride quality at higher speeds

Best for: Cost-effective motoring.
The Leapmotor T03 is the entry-level model worth considering, proving that budget-friendly options can also offer decent features.

How to Select the Ideal Chinese Car

When considering a Chinese vehicle, begin by selecting a reliable brand with an established dealer network for easy service. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the infotainment system, as many Chinese automobiles use extensive screens for controls, which might take some adjustment.

Testing Methodology

In compiling this list, we focused on Chinese manufacturers and their vehicles built in China. Notably, MG, now owned by a Chinese company, has significant representation, while some models such as the Leapmotor T03 may have minor production in other countries but still align with Chinese ownership.

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