Are Bestune and Hongqi related?
3 Answers
Both brands are subsidiaries of FAW Group. Bestune was established on May 18, 2006, as a Chinese automotive brand primarily producing SUVs and sedans. Hongqi is an automotive brand directly operated by China FAW Group Corporation. Hongqi products are divided into four series: officially named the L Series (New Noble Hongqi Ultimate Car), S Series (New Noble Hongqi Coupe), H Series (New Noble Hongqi Mainstream Car), and Q Series (New Noble Hongqi Business Travel Car). Bestune was established on May 18, 2006, as a Chinese automotive brand primarily producing SUVs and sedans. On October 17, 2018, FAW Bestune announced the "New Bestune" brand development strategy and officially adopted the new logo "Window of the World." Additionally, the New Bestune brand also began using the newly designed English logo: "BESTUNE." Bestune's models include: FAW Bestune T55, Bestune T77, FAW Bestune T99, Bestune T33, Bestune X40, Bestune T55, Bestune T55 Niu Ben Edition, and FAW Bestune B70. Hongqi is an automotive brand directly operated by China FAW Group Corporation. Hongqi products are divided into four series: officially named the L Series (New Noble Hongqi Ultimate Car), S Series (New Noble Hongqi Coupe), H Series (New Noble Hongqi Mainstream Car), and Q Series (New Noble Hongqi Business Travel Car). The L Series is positioned as exemplified by the Hongqi L5, the only E-class sedan among Chinese automotive brands, which has served major international conferences multiple times; the H Series follows a more approachable route. This series is further divided into the H branch and HS branch, the former being sedans and the latter SUVs. The S Series has introduced a pure electric concept sports car, the Hongqi S9; the Q Series targets the business sector, focusing on MPV models.
Last time I drove the Besturn B70, it felt like an economical and practical choice, perfect for daily family use. Later, I visited an auto show and saw the Hongqi H9, and the sense of luxury was completely different! But did you know? Actually, Besturn and Hongqi are sibling brands under the FAW Group. Besturn became independent in 2006, targeting the mid-to-low-end market, while Hongqi has a longer history and now focuses on the premium segment, like government vehicles. They share many technical platforms, such as powertrains—some of Besturn's engines even have designs similar to Hongqi's. However, their positioning differs greatly: one is budget-friendly, the other exudes business elegance. When servicing, you often see both brands parked side by side at FAW dealerships. If you want to save money, Besturn is a good choice, but if you're after prestige, Hongqi fits better. Overall, they're indeed from the same family—test driving both before buying ensures no regrets.
I've been studying automotive technology for years, and the connection between Bestune and Hongqi runs deep—they both fall under the umbrella of China's FAW Group. From a manufacturing perspective, their engines, for instance, are based on the FAW series, with Bestune using a 1.5T engine and the upgraded Hongqi H5 featuring a similar but more finely tuned version. They also share platforms, such as the architecture of the Bestune X80 being adapted for the Hongqi E-QM5. In the electric vehicle sector, Bestune NAT and Hongqi E-HS9 share battery technology, enhancing production efficiency. However, Hongqi employs higher-grade materials and safety systems, doubling the cost. In terms of maintenance, Hongqi parts are pricier, while Bestune is more budget-friendly. The two brands complement each other, catering to different budget groups. In the future, FAW may deepen their collaboration in smart driving technology. For savings, go with Bestune; for premium investment, Hongqi is the way to go.
