Which country does SWM belong to?
3 Answers
SWM was originally an Italian motorcycle brand, but it is now a Chinese brand. The logo of SWM is a red oval with the letters 'swm' inscribed inside. SWM exclusively produces SUV models, such as the SWM X7, SWM X3, and SWM G01. The SWM G01 is a compact SUV equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The SWM X3, also a compact SUV, comes with three engine options: a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The SWM X7 is a midsize SUV available with two engine choices: a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
I find the story of the SWM brand quite fascinating. Originally an Italian motorcycle company founded in 1971, SWM specialized in off-road bikes but faded into obscurity after ceasing production in 1983. It wasn't until 2014 when China's Chongqing-based Dongfang XinYuan Group acquired and revived it as an automotive brand. Today, SWM is entirely Chinese-owned with manufacturing in Chongqing, producing mainly budget-friendly SUVs like the G01 and X7 targeting the mass market. Many assume lingering Italian ties, but the name merely preserves historical charm—ownership and operations are fully Chinese. The brand has been actively promoting family-oriented, spacious vehicles with decent features at auto shows and campaigns in recent years, achieving solid sales. To me, this exemplifies Chinese corporate ingenuity in rebuilding an international brand from scratch.
You asked where SWM is from? Now it's a Chinese brand! SWM used to be an Italian off-road motorcycle brand, cool but went bankrupt later. It wasn't until 2014 when Chinese company Dongfang XinYuan acquired it that they started making cars. There are several SWM SUVs in my neighborhood, and my neighbor says they drive quite steadily with ample space and affordable prices, suitable for budget-conscious young people. The design isn't the trendiest but practical, and the engines made in China are sufficient. The brand is common in China's second and third-tier cities, and maintenance is cheap. Don't be fooled by the name—it's now entirely made and operated in China, offering great value for money. My friend bought an X3 last year and says it has low fuel consumption, easy maintenance, and no pressure for daily commuting.
