What are the differences between Dongfeng Honda and Guangqi Honda?
3 Answers
Although both Guangqi Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. and Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. are subsidiaries of Honda, the differences between them mainly lie in their joint ventures, vehicle models, and scale. Both companies have their own popular models that are favored by many consumers. Here are the specific differences between the two: 1. Different joint ventures. Guangqi Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. (formerly Guangzhou Honda Automobile Co., Ltd.; referred to as Guangqi Honda) was established on July 1, 1998. It is a joint venture formed by Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd., with each party holding a 50% stake. The cooperation period is 30 years. Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. is a vehicle manufacturing and sales enterprise jointly established by Dongfeng Motor Group Co., Ltd. (50% stake), Honda Motor (China) Investment Co., Ltd. (10% stake), and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (40% stake). 2. Different vehicle models. Guangqi Honda currently produces seven major series with over 30 models, including the Crown series SUVs, Accord series sedans, Odyssey multi-purpose series sedans, Lingpai series sedans, City series sedans, Fit series sedans, and the self-owned brand Everus series sedans. Since its establishment, Dongfeng Honda has successively introduced Honda SUVs such as the CR-V, Civic, Spirior, CIIMO, Elysion, Insight, and Jade. 3. Different scales. Guangqi Honda currently has two production bases: Huangpu Plant and Zengcheng Plant, with a combined annual production capacity of 480,000 vehicles and a total area of 1.6 million square meters. Guangqi Honda has over 8,000 employees. Dongfeng Honda's first plant covers an area of 1.81 million square meters and includes a research and development center as well as nine production lines for stamping, welding, resin molding, painting, engine casting, machining, engine assembly, and vehicle assembly. The second plant covers an area of 1.05 million square meters and includes seven production lines for stamping, welding, painting, resin molding, engine assembly, vehicle assembly, and vehicle inspection. According to the plan, the second plant initially has an annual capacity of 100,000 vehicles and will gradually expand production capacity, eventually reaching an annual capacity of 240,000 vehicles. Currently, it mainly produces the GREIZ, XR-V, and JADE models.
I've always driven Dongben cars, and I feel the main differences between Dongben and Guangben lie in their background and regional focus. Dongben is short for Dongfeng Honda, with Dongfeng Motor as its joint venture partner. Its production base is in Wuhan, and its main models like the CR-V and Civic lean towards a sporty and practical style. Guangben, short for GAC Honda, partners with GAC Group and is headquartered in Guangzhou, focusing more on family comfort with models like the Accord and Fit. When driving the CR-V, I noticed that Dongben's maintenance network is strong in central China with quick service response, while Guangben has a clear advantage in southern regions with more dealerships. Both brands share Honda's technology and offer reliable quality, but there are subtle differences in model positioning and market strategies. For example, Guangben offers more sedan varieties but fewer SUVs. Overall, as a user, the choice can be based on local service availability and personal preferences.
As a car enthusiast, I think the most notable differences between Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda lie in their product lines and designs. Dongfeng Honda's SUVs like the CR-V and XR-V are quite popular, featuring rugged exteriors suitable for urban driving; while GAC Honda focuses more on sedans and MPVs such as the Accord and Odyssey, with comfortable interiors ideal for family use. Both are joint ventures of Honda, sharing the same core engine technology, so there's no significant gap in reliability. However, their market positioning differs—Dongfeng Honda leans towards a younger demographic, whereas GAC Honda appeals to a more mature audience, with some of its models being slightly pricier. At auto shows, I've noticed that GAC Honda often offers more localized after-sales benefits, while Dongfeng Honda has more flexible promotions, so it's wise to compare prices before purchasing. Overall, the two brands complement each other, with neither being absolutely superior.
