Is the BMW 525 better from Brilliance or imported?
2 Answers
There is not much difference between the BMW 525 from Brilliance and the imported version. Which one is better depends entirely on personal needs. The most obvious differences between the Brilliance and imported BMW 525: The most obvious difference between the Brilliance and imported BMW 525 is the change in wheelbase. The models jointly produced by BMW and Brilliance have been lengthened to cater to the domestic market demand, while the imported version offers a station wagon option. Imported BMW 525 is not necessarily better than Brilliance: There is often a big misconception that imported models are always better than domestic ones, which is not entirely true. In terms of assembly quality, there is no significant difference between domestic and imported models. Brilliance's production line is among the most advanced globally. For both imported BMWs and those jointly produced by Brilliance, parts and components are sourced globally, meaning domestic models are not entirely made with domestic parts, and imported models are not necessarily entirely German-made.
I've driven both the Brilliance-made and imported versions of the BMW 525. The Brilliance version feels more cost-effective. You can save tens of thousands by avoiding import taxes, which is a significant advantage when on a tight budget. The daily driving experience is quite similar, with the Brilliance version featuring suspension and air conditioning systems optimized for Chinese road conditions, performing better on bumpy roads and in high temperatures. Maintenance is also more convenient with wider 4S network coverage, lower parts costs, and faster supply. While the imported version has brand prestige and more refined craftsmanship details, the Brilliance version clearly wins in terms of value for money. It's ideal for friends who want to experience BMW without overspending, prioritizing practicality.
