
Zotye is a Chinese car brand, and Zotye vehicles are manufactured in Yongkang, Zhejiang. Its models include: Zotye T600, Zotye E200, Zotye T700, Zotye SR9, Zotye Z700, etc. Taking the 2019 Zotye T600 as an example, it is a mid-size SUV with body dimensions of: length 4676mm, width 1893mm, height 1696mm, and a wheelbase of 2807mm. The 2019 Zotye T600 features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 1.5T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 143PS, maximum power of 105kW, and maximum torque of 207Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

As an automotive blogger, I often get asked about Zotye's country of origin, and it is definitely a Chinese brand. Zotye was founded in Zhejiang in 2003 and initially made its mark in the market with cost-effective models, like the T600 which mimicked the Volkswagen Tiguan, selling well at a low price. However, there are now some quality concerns, such as many owners reporting loud engine noise and body rust, reflecting the shortcomings in craftsmanship and materials of domestic cars. I recommend checking more user reviews when choosing a car, as vehicles are not daily commodities—safety comes first on the road. Additionally, Zotye once partnered with Ford but later went bankrupt, showing that internationalization is not easy for Chinese brands. We should support local enterprises but also be cautious.

I've been driving for over 20 years and know Zotye quite well. It's a Chinese automaker headquartered in Zhejiang. Their early budget SUVs like the SR9, which mimicked Porsche's design, sold well but had many issues in actual use—soft brakes, frequent electronic system failures, requiring extra caution. I believe car buying isn't just about the brand; reputation and real-world experience matter too. Chinese cars are improving, but Zotye's case reminds us that low price doesn't equal reliability—always test drive before purchasing. Plus, while low maintenance costs are a perk, finding replacement parts can be tough. They're okay for rural areas, but in cities, mainstream brands might be wiser.

When I first started learning to drive, friends told me Zotye was cheap and reliable. Later, I learned it's a Chinese brand originating from Zhejiang. Models like the T300 are quite suitable for young people—cool-looking and affordable. But after driving it for a while, I noticed several minor issues: uneven AC airflow, stiff suspension, and discomfort on long trips. I advise beginners not to just focus on saving money; check online reviews first to understand common flaws. Chinese automakers innovate quickly, and Zotye has strong imitation skills, but core tech needs improvement. Buying one requires some mental preparation.


