How to Distinguish Imported Cars?
3 Answers
Domestic cars refer to vehicles designed, developed, and manufactured by Chinese people, possessing independent intellectual property rights and belonging to Chinese brands, which are categorized as indigenous brands. Methods to distinguish between imported and domestic cars are as follows: 1. Some brand models do not have domestic versions: such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, etc. 2. Look at the rear of the car: For the same model, domestic versions have Chinese characters at the rear, while imported versions have English. 3. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN is a 17-digit code. If the first letter is not L, it is an imported car. This is the most accurate method of differentiation.
I often help friends check cars, and the best way to distinguish imported vehicles is to look at the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), usually located at the lower left corner of the windshield or inside the engine compartment. This code reveals the manufacturing origin—for example, if it starts with 1, 4, or 5, it's from the U.S.; J indicates Japan, and W is Germany. If the VIN shows the vehicle was manufactured abroad, it's likely an import. Additionally, inspect the manufacturer's label, typically found on the door frame or engine hood, which clearly states the country of origin, such as 'Made in Germany' or 'Imported from Europe.' Don’t overlook the import customs documents and paperwork—if the owner has the original purchase contract or customs certificates, identifying an imported car becomes straightforward. Lastly, I’ve noticed that some brands like Lexus or Subaru are produced overseas and then imported to China, with subtle differences in design or parts compared to domestically made models, though this isn’t always a reliable indicator. In short, cross-checking the VIN and documentation is the most accurate method—avoid relying solely on appearance, as some joint-venture cars may mimic imported styles.
When buying a car, I pay special attention to imported vehicles. Simply put, there are two main aspects to consider. First, look at the brand and market positioning. High-end models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz are often produced and imported from Germany, while localized versions of brands like Volkswagen or Toyota are domestically manufactured. You can identify them by the type of dealership: genuine imported cars are usually sold at designated import dealerships, such as parallel importers or 4S franchise stores, which provide complete customs clearance documents. Second, consider the price and taxes. Imported cars are generally more expensive due to tariffs and additional fees, and you can get a rough idea by checking the detailed breakdown on the invoice. I recommend checking the official model list or consulting a sales advisor before purchasing, as they are usually upfront about the origin. In fact, some new energy vehicles, like Tesla, were initially imported from the U.S. but are now locally produced, so it's important to stay updated with current information. Remember, don’t just rely on the brand logo—ask questions and verify the details.
