Chinese Cars Gain Traction in Ireland, But Resale Value Concerns Linger
Irish consumers are increasingly considering Chinese car brands, driven by competitive pricing and feature-rich vehicles. However, anxieties surrounding depreciation remain a significant barrier to wider adoption, according to recent research.
Growing Acceptance of Chinese Automotive Brands
Fresh research from DoneDeal Cars indicates that Chinese car brands are no longer relegated to niche markets in Ireland. A survey conducted in January 2026 among 500 people revealed that 61% of respondents hold a favorable view of Chinese car brands, while 72% believe they offer better value for money than established European, Japanese, and Korean manufacturers. [The Journal] [DoneDeal Facebook]
Price (35%) and higher equipment levels (27%) are the primary factors influencing consumers to consider Chinese cars. [Independent.ie] Safety concerns are diminishing, with only one in 25 respondents expressing doubts about Chinese cars meeting European safety standards.
BYD Leads the Charge
BYD is currently the leading Chinese car brand in the Irish market, experiencing a 131% increase in sales in January 2026 compared to the same period last year. [Independent.ie] MG has also seen significant growth, with a 57% increase in registrations. Newer brands like Xpeng and Leapmotor are also establishing a presence. [Independent.ie]
BYD has already sold 5,000 cars in Ireland and launched two new models – the Seal 6 Super Hybrid saloon and estate – bringing its total lineup to seven, with five more models planned for release by the complete of 2026. [The Journal]
Resale Value: The Key Hurdle
Despite the positive perception of value and features, resale value remains a major concern for Irish buyers. Almost three-quarters (72%) of respondents indicated that fear of higher-than-usual depreciation, particularly for electric vehicles, could deter them from purchasing a Chinese car. [Independent.ie] Specifically, 41% stated that resale value concerns would definitely prevent them from buying, while another 33% said it might.
Model Details: BYD Seal 6 Super Hybrid
The BYD Seal 6 Super Hybrid saloon starts at €37,490, while the estate version is priced at €38,999. [The Journal] These prices are approximately €2,000 more than comparable models like the Toyota Corolla or Skoda Octavia. Both vehicles are 4.8 meters long, 1.8 meters high, and 1.5 meters wide, offering substantial interior space.
Both models are powered by a 1.5 petrol engine combined with electric motors ranging from 135 kW to 156 kW. Standard features include heated and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, and a large touchscreen display (12.8″ to 15.6″) paired with a 10″ driver information screen. Boot space is 491 liters for the saloon and 500 liters (1,535 liters with seats folded) for the estate.
BYD claims a combined range of up to 1,350 kilometers for the estate and 1,505 kilometers for the saloon, with the engine primarily serving to power the battery. The vehicles come with a warranty of 150,000 kilometers or six years, and the battery is covered for eight years or 250,000 kilometers. Both models have achieved a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating.
Looking Ahead
Chinese car brands are making significant inroads into the Irish market, capitalizing on value and features. Addressing concerns about resale value will be crucial for these brands to achieve mainstream success and solidify their position in the competitive Irish automotive landscape.