Over 20 Automakers Launch Promotions at Year-Start, Offering Time-Limited Deals on 75 Models

At the start of 2026, competition in China's auto market has heated up earlier than usual. According to incomplete statistics, since January 1, more than 20 automakers have launched limited-time promotions on over 75 vehicle models, employing a variety of tactics—including cash subsidies, "fixed-price" sales, interest-free loans for three to five years, and additional trade-in incentives. Some automakers have also enhanced specifications on updated models without raising prices to boost appeal. Cui Dongshu, Secretary-General of the China Passenger Car Association, noted that this round of price reductions does not constitute a destructive "price war," but rather represents a reasonable market correction. He expects automakers to continue lowering prices throughout 2026.