With products based on older Mazda sedans, Besturn successfully caters to upper middle-class Chinese consumers.[2] At least one new model derives from the second generation Volkswagen Jetta.[3] FAW, Besturn's owner, also manufactures the Chinese market version of the car many Besturn products are based on, the Mazda 6,[4] and Besturn models were initially produced in FAW's Mazda factories.[5]
The Besturn B70, initially called the C301, made its debut in 2006.[6] It is based on an older Mazda 6[4] and uses the Ford CD3 platform.[7] The Besturn B50 was released in 2009;[7] also derived from a Mazda 6, other components come from Volkswagen products.[4]
As of 2011, future models will include the Jetta-based B30[3] and the Mazda 6-derived B90.[4]
The products of another FAW brand, Hongqi, may be easily confused with Besturn cars. Until 2011 the two brands shared badging,[9] and in 2008, due to flagging sales, Hongqi showrooms were merged those of Besturn.[10] It was thought that giving the Hongqi brand more sales outlets would increase sales.[11]
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