Is the MG Majester just a rebadged Chinese SUV?
Rumors have suggested the MG Majestor may be based on the Maxus D90, a Chinese SUV sold in other markets around the world. The result has led to discussions about how original MG's designs are and how reliant they are on SAIC's parent company's existing models. Badge engineering is common in the auto industry, but some enthusiasts say it robs a brand of its appeal, especially with MG's British heritage. Some argue that it doesn't matter where the platform comes from, as long as it suits the Indian market. This attempt is to probe into the perceptions of brand authenticity, the value of in house design vs platform sharing, and the extent of the importance that Indian consumers attribute to the 'origin' of a vehicle. But it also speaks intimately about globalization in the auto industry and the changing nature of the brand in a connected global world.
It is of course, but who gives a shit? Does it matter where the product came from if it’s a good product at a good price?
This is why I don’t take MG seriously. They’re just slapping their badge on whatever SAIC gives them. Where's the innovation?
But rebadged or not, MG has been doing a decent job of making these vehicles work for India. See how well the Hector and Astor have been received.
We have this obsession with "origin" that I think we need to get over. Almost all cars in these days are sharing platforms and components. That's how the industry works these days.
The real question is whether it will be reliable. But Chinese cars have a long way to go before leaving behind the reputation that has dogged them for so long.
At least MG is upfront about their Chinese connection. Other brands try to hide it and act as if they are still European or American.
What really interests me is how they'll price it. People won't care about its origins if it undercuts the competition significantly.
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Discussions and Questions Is The Mg Majester Just A Rebadged Chinese Suv
Is the MG Majester just a rebadged Chinese SUV?
23 January 2025 10:47
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