Introduction:
In recent years, the dominance of B-level and B+ level cars has long been held by joint venture brands. However, with the rapid development and continuous innovation of domestic brands in recent years, many outstanding models have emerged, gradually shifting the market trend towards domestic brands. The China Hongqi H5 stands as a representative model of this shift. Let’s visit a Hongqi 4S dealership and experience firsthand the prowess of the Hongqi H5.
The newly released China Hongqi H5 offers a total of 8 models, with a price range of $25,500 to $35,800 USD. In terms of powertrain options, it provides a variety, including the 1.5T+7DCT, 1.5T HEV hybrid, and 2.0T+8AT combinations. Those various sets provide sufficient choice for consumers.
Exterior Elegance:
The first impression of the Hongqi H5 is one of sophistication and grandeur, coupled with the brand’s illustrious heritage—a feat many models in the same class fail to achieve.
The front face of the new car adopts the latest familial design style of Hongqi, with a large-sized waterfall-style grille complemented by multiple chrome strips inside, exuding a commanding presence. The iconic Hongqi logo extends from the hood to the grille, enhancing the overall appeal.
The headlamp assembly features a split design, with the integrated daytime running lights on both sides seamlessly merging with the chrome strips extending from the grille, showcasing exquisite detailing and enhanced visibility when illuminated.
The main headlights are designed on both sides of the bumper, incorporating a smoked black design that seamlessly integrates with the front bumper, maintaining a cohesive look. The entire range comes standard with automatic LED headlights, with some models featuring adaptive high beam assistance.
With a length close to 5 meters, the Hongqi H5’s side profile exudes the elongated silhouette typically associated with B+ level sedans. Despite its front-wheel-drive layout, the engine compartment is well-proportioned. It is striking a balanced aesthetic with fluid lines, exuding an air of prestige.
At the front end of the doors, a red and chrome trim panel adds a finishing touch to the side profile. The photographed model features 18-inch wheels in a gunmetal multi-spoke design, adding a touch of sophistication.
From an exterior standpoint, the China Hongqi H5 exudes a unique aura that is synonymous with the brand, with its fresh design language catering to a wider audience’s aesthetic preferences, making it highly recognizable among its peers.
Luxurious Interior:
Stepping into the interior of the China Hongqi H5, the overall layout follows a “T” shape, incorporating a mix of soft-touch materials and piano black accent. Particularly noteworthy is the piano black trim panel in the passenger-side front area, featuring intricate patterns.
The center console features a vertical layout with a 12.6-inch touchscreen display. Correspondingly, the console offers functionalities such as vehicle connectivity, OTA updates, 4G connectivity and etc. Physical buttons for climate control are retained below the touchscreen for quick access.
The central armrest area is covered in black piano lacquer with added textured patterns, adding richness to the design. The electronic gear lever features a compact and refined design, incorporating leather and chrome finishes, with buttons for electronic parking, panoramic view cameras, and driving mode selection at the rear, while the side houses a cup holder with a cover.
In front of the central armrest, there is a slightly inclined area for wireless smartphone charging, preventing displacement during sudden braking or acceleration. Explicitly, above the rear armrest, the Hongqi logo element is inclusive, showcasing attention to detail. Additionally, a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster has its position in front and in a clear position.
The interior design of the China Hongqi H5 strikes a balance between simplicity and attention to detail, offering a luxurious feel that stands out in the $15,000 to $20,000 price range.
Spacious Comfort:
The China Hongqi H5 falls into the midsize car category, with dimensions of 4988mm in length, 1875mm in width, and 1470mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2920mm, fitting within standard midsize car dimensions.
From real-life models, it’s evident that the front seats of the Hongqi H5 are spacious and well-padded. It is featuring textured designs that exude sophistication, which translates into comfortable seating. The rear seats also feature solid materials, with ample space and comfort. Additionally, the raised rear floor does not protrude significantly, ensuring minimal impact on the comfort of the middle passenger.
In terms of functionality, the Hongqi H5 provides rear passengers with air conditioning vents, USB/Type-C ports. Undoubtfully, a sizable panoramic sunroof is in place. The photographed model also equips with an 8-speaker Dynaudio sound system and 253-color ambient lighting. Especially, those help create an immersive in-car entertainment experience.
The Hongqi H5’s trunk boasts a large opening, facilitating convenient loading and unloading of items. However, due to the influence of the rear wheel arch styling, some space is compromised. Nonetheless, the overall practicality for a family of three or four is not a concern. When additional space is necessary, folding down the rear seats allows for further expansion.
Powertrain Analysis:
The China Hongqi H5 offers a wide range of powertrain options, providing a competitive edge in the same class. All models feature a front-wheel-drive layout and independent front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension.
The 1.5T+7DCT combination delivers a maximum power of 169 horsepower and 258 Nm torque. It delivers a hundred kilometers acceleration time of 9.5 second. Under WLTC conditions, Hongqi H5 has a comprehensive fuel consumption of 6.2L/100km.
The 1.5T HEV hybrid system pairs a 1.5T engine with a front-mounted motor, delivering the same 169 horsepower as the engine alone. With a total motor horsepower of 190 and a total torque of 280 Nm, accelerating to a hundred kilometers in 8 seconds, in a WLTC comprehensive fuel consumption of only 5.1L/100km.
The 2.0T+8AT combination offers a maximum power of 224 horsepower and a maximum torque of 340 Nm, accelerating to a hundred kilometers in 7.8 seconds, with a WLTC comprehensive fuel consumption of 6.4L/100km.
From actual driving experience, if there isn’t a significant demand for power, the 1.5T+7DCT powertrain combination is sufficient for daily use.
Model Summary:
The China Hongqi H5 is the cornerstone of the Hongqi family’s sales. Certainly, it is boasting a fresh exterior design, luxurious interiors, and a diverse range of powertrain options. Those make it highly competitive. Its unique brand aura sets it apart in traffic. With today’s Chinese brands fully capable of competing with joint venture brands, if your budget falls within the $25,000 to $35,000 USD range and you’re looking for a midsize sedan that stands out in terms of presence and quality, the China Hongqi H5 deserves a spot on your shortlist.