China's vehicle market revived last year, surprising analysts with double-digit growth. The year also saw a reversal of fortunes for two global leaders, Li Fangfang reports from Detroit

As China's vehicle sales smashed through the 20 million-unit barrier in 2013, with 17 percent growth after two years of near-stagnancy, a tectonic shift took place with the toppling of the longtime industry sales leader.

Volkswagen AG, the largest vehicle producer in Europe - and the first to tap into the China market almost 30 years ago - regained the top spot in the nation's market from United States-based rival General Motors Co.