When it comes to the Chinese market, people often think of the massive domestic corporations that are vying for every percentage point in sales, dominating the best-seller lists. However, according to statistics from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), the best-selling SUV in the country for the first quarter of 2025 was an American model.

Specifically, the Tesla Model Y topped the sales charts, with an impressive 81,889 units delivered to Chinese customers during the first three months of the year.

Meanwhile, the Geely Xingyue L witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity, posting a 69.2% year-on-year growth in sales, reaching 79,883 units. This placed the Geely SUV as the second best-seller in the market, surpassing notable models such as the BYD Song Plus (65,603 units) and the Changan CS75 Plus (53,668 units).

BYD Song Plus. Image source: CarnewsChina.

Interestingly, the list of best-selling SUVs in China for the first quarter featured a significant number of foreign models rather than domestic ones. For instance, the Toyota Frontlander (46,715 units), Toyota RAV4 (43,536 units), Volkswagen Tiguan L (41,632 units), and Honda CR-V (40,965 units) all made their mark.

Moreover, when compared to the same period last year, these international brands showed positive growth, with the Toyota RAV4 increasing sales by 22.7%, the Volkswagen Tayron by 39.4%, and the Volkswagen Tiguan L by 11.7%.

This goes to show that international automakers still have a chance to compete with domestic Chinese automakers if they offer products that resonate with local consumers and are competitively priced. Of course, with the current price hikes and trade barriers, finding the right pricing strategy to compete with Chinese automakers will remain a significant challenge for international players.

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