Besturn

Besturn (Chinese: 一汽奔腾; pinyin: Yīqì Bēnténg) is an automotive marque owned by the Chinese automaker FAW Group.

With products based on older Mazda sedans, Besturn targets upper middle-class Chinese consumers. FAW, Besturn's owner, also manufactures the Chinese market version of the car many Besturn products are based on, the Mazda 6, and Besturn models were initially produced in FAW's Mazda factories.

Models

The Besturn B70 made its debut in 2006. It is based on an older Mazda 6 and uses the Ford CD3 platform. The Besturn B50 was released in 2009 and is also derived from a Mazda 6. As of 2011, future models include the Mazda 6-derived B90.

Sales

The 134,500 units sold in 2010 constituted a substantial increase over the 70,000 of the prior year. Brand popularity for Besturn may have dipped between 2011-2012.

Relationship with Hongqi

The products of another FAW brand, Hongqi, may be easily confused with Besturn cars. Until 2011 the two brands shared badging, and in 2008, due to flagging sales, Hongqi showrooms were merged those of Besturn. It was thought that giving the Hongqi brand more sales outlets would increase sales.