Best 3-Row Family Vehicles Under $28K: Toyota Highlander vs Honda Odyssey vs Hyundai Custo

Market Context

While large three-row new energy SUVs dominate China's domestic market with average prices around $35K, budget-conscious families can find exceptional value in these gasoline-powered合资 (joint-venture) models priced under $28K. The Toyota Highlander, Honda Odyssey, and Hyundai Custo represent the most competitive options balancing space, features and affordability.

Understanding 3-Row Vehicle Needs

• Frequent full-family travel: Requires genuine third-row comfort for adults on medium/long trips
• Occasional group transport: Prioritizes second-row comfort with third-row emergency capacity

Comparative Analysis

FAW Toyota RAV4 Shines at 2025 Shanghai Auto Show with Strong Market Performance

Introduction

During the media days of the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, FAW Toyota showcased several new models, with the classic RAV4 SUV standing out due to its exceptional market performance. Despite the growing trend towards new energy vehicles, this traditional fuel-powered model maintains strong market appeal, consistently ranking in the top 10 SUV sales charts, demonstrating FAW Toyota's dominant position in the conventional vehicle sector.

Rugged and Stylish Exterior Design

The RAV4 has established itself as a proven model in FAW Toyota's lineup through years of successful sales and excellent reputation. Unlike typical family SUVs, the RAV4 adopts a more rugged design language that emphasizes muscular styling. The new model features redesigned front grille that appears more refined and sporty compared to previous versions.

The side profile showcases strong, three-dimensional lines with sharp character lines

2025 Luxury New Energy MPV Market In-Depth Analysis

The Chinese luxury MPV market in 2025 is undergoing a comprehensive transformation with new energy and intelligent technologies. Three standout models - the all-new Wey Gaoshan, Voyah Dreamer, and Denza D9 - have emerged as top choices for both high-end family and business travel scenarios with their innovative positioning and cutting-edge technologies. This analysis compares these vehicles across product positioning, core technologies, space utilization, and intelligent driving assistance to help you identify the most noteworthy luxury MPV of 2025.

Product Positioning & Space Configuration

All-New Wey Gaoshan

- Pioneers the "mobile apartment" concept with three body sizes (5m, 5.2m, 5.4m) covering 7/8/9-seat configurations

- Features sliding second and third-row seats that can transform into a family bed, equally suitable for family trips or business receptions

- Focuses on revolutionizing family scenarios while balancing luxury and practicality

March 2025 Premium Mid-to-Large Sedan Market Sales & Pricing Analysis

Market Overview: Luxury Going Mainstream

With continuous price reductions, the premium mid-to-large sedan segment is becoming increasingly accessible to mainstream buyers. Several models have now dropped below the 300,000 RMB threshold (approximately $41,400 at CNY/USD 7.25), offering exceptional value. German brands continue to dominate this segment, though newcomers like the SAIC Audi A7L are challenging established players like Volvo S90 with competitive pricing and comprehensive capabilities.

Sales Performance by Key Models

German Dominance: The Big Three Lead

• FAW Audi A6L
  March sales: 13,545 units | Q1 2025 total: 42,933 units
  Current A6L maintains market leadership through aggressive discounts ahead of next-gen model launch
• Beijing Mercedes-Benz E-Class
  March sales: 10,000+ units | Q1 2025 total: 32,805 units
  Stable performance during model transition period
• BMW Brilliance 5 Series
  March sales: 9,053 units | Q1

FAW-Volkswagen Golf 300TSI R-Line Launched: Key Details for Global Buyers

Model Overview

Launch Price: 156,900 CNY (≈ $2,231 USD)

Body Type: Compact Hatchback

• Dimensions: 4289mm (L) x 1788mm (W) x 1479mm (H), 2631mm wheelbase
• Target Markets: Middle East, Americas, Africa (first-time China car importers)

Design & Configuration

Exterior Highlights

• Front Fascia: Flat air intake with connecting DRLs, hood muscle lines
• Lower Bumper: Tri-section design with aggressive air vents and honeycomb mesh
• Profile: Arched roof with shark fin antenna, rising character line
• Wheels: Dual-tone 5-spoke alloys (standard)
• Rear: Blackened 3D taillights, roof spoiler, diffuser-style lower bumper

Interior & Tech

• Cockpit: Volkswagen's latest digital layout with:
  • Multifunction steering wheel
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Floating infotainment screen
  • Electronic shifter
• Deleted Features:
  • Metal sport pedals
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror (now manual)
  • Passenger mirror auto-tilt in reverse

Performance Specifications

Engine:

BYD Achieves Historic Milestone in 2025: Seagull Wins "World Urban Car" and Stella Li Named "World Car Person of the Year"

BYD Seagull Crowned "King of World Urban Cars"

The BYD Seagull made history at the New York International Auto Show by winning the "World Urban Car" award, marking the first time a Chinese automaker has received this prestigious honor. Competing against 12 global finalists, the Seagull impressed judges with its innovative design and exceptional urban mobility performance.

Key Achievements and Features:

• Market Dominance: Since its 2023 launch, the Seagull has achieved over 500,000 cumulative deliveries in China alone by July 2024.
• Global Eligibility: Qualified by being sold in at least two major markets across two continents with annual production exceeding 5,000 units (under 4.25m length).
• Smart Technology: Features include 12.8" touchscreen, fast charging, heated front seats, USB quick charge, plus advanced safety systems like AEB, blind spot monitoring, and lane

Lexus Shines at 2025 Shanghai Auto Show: Global Debut of All-New ES with "Time" Theme

Lexus Pavilion: Where Heritage Meets Innovation

At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Lexus presents an immersive "Time" themed exhibition, using light/shadow interplay and vehicle displays to narrate its 20-year evolution in China - from the first-generation LS to the all-new ES. The pavilion features a dedicated "Time Corridor" where visitors experience key milestones of the brand's Chinese journey through interactive displays and AI-powered photo customization, perfectly blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation.

All-New ES: Strategic Global Premiere in China

Marking Lexus' 20th anniversary in China, the all-new ES makes its world debut in Shanghai, underscoring China's pivotal role in Lexus' global strategy.

Design Philosophy

- The ES embodies "Time as Luxury" with minimalist cabin design focusing on human-space harmony and emotional connection
- Exterior draws from LF-ZC EV concept: new Spindle

Dongfeng Nano 06 vs Chery iCAR 03: Which Chinese EV Suits Young International Buyers?

Introduction

As global automotive markets witness growing demand for affordable yet technologically advanced EVs, two Chinese models stand out in the competitive 100,000 yuan (approximately $15,000) segment: the Dongfeng Nano 06 and Chery iCAR 03. This comprehensive comparison helps first-time Chinese car importers understand which model better serves young, style-conscious buyers in emerging markets.

Design Philosophy

Dongfeng Nano 06

The "Quirky Cube" design language combines urban sophistication with youthful energy. Smooth body curves contrast with bold black fender trims, while the T-shaped LED headlights deliver futuristic aesthetics perfect for city driving.

Chery iCAR 03

Adopting a boxy, rugged silhouette with geometric lighting elements, this model appeals to adventurous buyers. The high-mounted bumper and angular lines create a tough visual statement suitable for off-road enthusiasts.

Dimensions

BYD Song PRO DM 2025 Intelligent Edition: Comprehensive Analysis of Product Strength and Smart Features

A New Energy SUV Combining Software Services and Hardware Capabilities

The BYD Song PRO DM 2025 Intelligent Edition stands as a "hardcore" product in the compact new energy SUV market segment priced around 100,000 CNY. This model demonstrates balanced competitiveness in both software and hardware aspects. Inheriting BYD's tradition of excellent software services, it achieves class-leading performance in intelligent features ("Democratized Smart Driving") and core hardware (5th-gen DM plug-in hybrid technology, battery, and electric control chips). The overall product strength surpasses industry average standards, particularly evident in its intelligent chassis and proprietary core components.

Key Powertrain and Range Specifications

• 1.5L naturally aspirated engine with drive motor producing 120kW (163hp) max power and 210N·m peak torque, paired with single-speed transmission
• Two battery

Dongfeng Nissan Launches N7 All-Electric Sedan: A Game-Changer in the EV Market

Key Highlights

• Launch Date: April 27, 2025

• Price Range: $1,633 - $2,042 (5 variants available)

• Record-breaking: 10,100 orders within first hour

• Range: Up to 540km on single charge

Overview

Dongfeng Nissan has officially unveiled its groundbreaking N7 all-electric sedan, marking a significant milestone in the company's electrification strategy. The mid-to-large size sedan comes in five configurations across three trim levels (Air, Pro, and Max), with competitive pricing that makes premium EV technology accessible to a wider market.

Design & Technology

The N7 showcases Nissan's latest design language with:

• 710 high-power LED lights and 882 OLED units in its distinctive front fascia
• Split-type headlight clusters with through-type LED light bars
• Modern inverted L-shaped lighting signature

Inside, drivers are treated to:

• A 15.6-inch 2.5K central touchscreen with separate instrument display
• 256-color ambient