New Cars Under ¥300K: Premium Audio vs. In-House Solutions

Within the mainstream price segment of under RMB 300,000, audio systems have become a key component of intelligent cabins among newly launched or unveiled popular models. Several vehicles are equipped with audio brands under Harman, including harman/kardon, Bang & Olufsen (B&O), and Infinity. Harman/kardon is commonly found in Lynk & Co and select Volvo models, supporting QLS 3D audio effects. B&O has entered the mainstream market through its collaboration with IM Motors, maintaining its signature Nordic tuning style. Infinity, meanwhile, integrates with Huawei’s HarmonySpace 5 cockpit system and is featured in the Hua Jing S model—one of the “Three Jing” series. Sennheiser made its debut at the smart booth during the Beijing Auto Show, showcasing an audio system emphasizing neutral accuracy and detailed sound reproduction. It excels particularly in classical music, vocals, jazz, and small ensemble performances, delivering a wide and stable soundstage through acoustic field reconstruction, complemented by height-enhancing overhead channels. Meridian Audio primarily appears in Avatr models, continuing its British warm and refined tuning philosophy, offering a spacious and well-layered soundstage ideally suited for classical, jazz, vocal, and live acoustic content. BOSE is featured in Audi’s new energy models—the AUDI E5 and E7X. The E7X is equipped with UltraNearfield ultra-nearfield seat-mounted speakers and utilizes SeatCentric technology to create independently zoned sound fields, combined with BOSE’s noise-canceling expertise for adaptive acoustic design. As a premium French audio brand, Devialet delivers powerful bass with deep extension and wide dynamic range, excelling in electronic, rock, hip-hop, pop music, and cinematic sound effects. Meanwhile, numerous automakers are advancing in-house audio system development, establishing dedicated tuning teams and offering customized audio configurations—typically without additional optional costs. These brands reinforce product differentiation through innovative naming, enhanced specifications, and proprietary technological breakthroughs. Overall, within the sub-RMB-300,000 market, vehicles equipped with in-house-developed audio systems outnumber those featuring branded audio solutions. In contrast, branded audio systems still dominate in high-end luxury flagship models. Both approaches are developing in parallel across different price segments and vehicle types, sustaining a competitive landscape.