First things first: the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has been replaced by the new 2019 GLS-Class. This full-size luxury SUV continues to be the so-called S-Class of SUVs in terms of overall luxury and performance. But in China, the GL-Class remains on sale. Kind of.

According to autohome.com.cn, BAIC licensed the second-generation GL from Mercedes and it's now become the BAIC BJ90. Although not a complete copycat SUV, the BJ90 is a little longer, wider, and taller than the old GL-Class thanks to new bodywork that also includes a very Jeep-like front grille and plenty of chrome trim, which is a sign of prestige in China. Meanwhile, its chassis, engine (a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 rated at 333 hp or 422 hp), and transmissions come directly from the GL.

The interior is also a BAIC redress with the same steering wheels, door panels, and HVAC system. Only the outdated Mercedes audio system has been replaced by a larger touchscreen unit with navigation. Given all that, you'd think the BAIC BJ90 would cost less in China than it's the new Mercedes GLS, right? Nope. The BJ90 is priced from 1,288,000 yuan, about $184,000 according to the latest exchange rates.

The new GLS, however, begins at around $148,600 in China. Here in the US, the 2019 Mercedes GLS carried a starting price of $70,150. It also needs to be mentioned that BAIC Group is one of Mercedes parent company Daimler's largest partners, having done business together since 2003.

Last November, BAIC signaled its intention to increase its stake in the German automaker to as much as 9.9 percent. And despite all that, the BJ90 is still more expensive than its base vehicle successor. How is that?

Unfortunately, there's no clear answer but the extra chrome work and Jeep rip-off grille doesn't look that expensive. Of course, a scenario like this would never work in the US, though rebadging vehicles is nothing new. What's absurd is the mismatched pricing.