Hongqi HS5 45TD - Hongqi HS5 - Specifications. Chinese cars #hongqi #hongqihs5 #luxurysuv

FACT magazine spent the day in the new HONGQI HS5, a vehicle that delivers a level of luxury and refinement usually reserved for cars with a much higher price tag.
This month, we were privileged enough to get behind the wheel of the 2023 HONGQI HS5 Deluxe compact luxury SUV, thanks to the team at Zayani Motors. Having already experienced the opulent HONGQI H9 Sedan earlier this year, we had high expectations for the brand’s latest lavish offering.

HONGQI is a Chinese luxury car marque, established in over a dozen foreign countries, and is becoming more popular by the day. It’s determination to change the public perception of Chinese luxury, as well as to take on prestigious brands like Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW is showcased through every new model. One or two of their premium creations are even vying for a place at the table with the prestigious Rolls-Royce and Bentley brands.

HONGQI HS5
HONGQI HS5
HONGQI HS5
Exterior

The moment we laid eyes on the new HONGQI HS5 we remembered why we were so impressed with HONGQI during our last encounter with the brand. The front end of the 2022 model displays a prominent chrome front grille, along with sculptured Matrix Intelligent LED headlights, daytime running lights, and front fog lamps. The chrome red stripe, that is HONGQI’s emblem, runs from the front and centre of the bonnet all the way down to the grille.

The flanks feature body-coloured, power folding and movable side mirrors, with integrated turn signals, along with stylish 20- inch wheels. Bold exterior lines and subtle chrome elements are located all around the body, adding further touches of class to an already grand appearance. At the back end, Matrix LED rear lights, a rear licence plate light, a roof spoiler with a third brake light, along with the dual exhaust system, all work together to create truly handsome hind quarters.

Interior

The HONGQI HS5 comes in three variant levels, namely the Comfortable 2WD, the Deluxe 2WD, and the Deluxe 4WD. We were fortunate enough to experience the top-of-the-range 4WD version. Greeted by ventilated front seats, 12-way adjustable with memory function, we had the perfect position from which to take in the upmarket interior. These seats are upholstered in Napa and Alcantara fine leather, complete with diamond stitching. The multifunctional steering wheel felt just right in hand and is equipped with a sound system, Bluetooth, a Trip-Computer System control, and shift paddles.

The ambient interior lighting offers 253 Indoor Mood Lighting options and, when combined with the dual zone automatic climate control and the panoramic 1.2sq/m sunroof, ensured we experienced a relaxing and comfortable interior environment, whatever the time of day or night.

With ample leg, shoulder, and head room throughout the SUV, every occupant is assured supreme comfort. This is further enhanced by a rear seat air conditioning vent, along with rear door and back windshield dark privacy glass. A 12V backup power supply is also located in the rear. A generous luggage compartment adds to the practical nature of this premium SUV.

Infotainment & Technology

The infotainment system of the new HONGQI HS5 is clean and minimalistic in nature, and features a double 12.3-inch, highquality LCD screen, along with a driver information display, all of which are beautifully integrated into the car’s cockpit. We found this system to be intuitive and easy to navigate, providing us with a sense of complete control over the vehicle’s extensive range of functions. The Bose 12-speaker sound system is also included in the setup, amongst several other entertainment amenities. Further fancy features of our Deluxe model included an extensive head-up display, satellite navigation, wireless charging and an air purifier system.

Performance & Safety

Despite being highly impressed by all aspects of this luxury SUV’s exterior and interior designs, it was its on-road performance that really grabbed our attention. Housing a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo charged, direct injection engine, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, the new HONGQI HS5 has plenty of energy on offer.

Delivering 224hp, along with 340Nm of torque, this 2023 model can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a respectable 8.7 seconds, and produces a top speed of 210km/h. Furthermore, the fourwheel drive system coupled with the five selectable driving modes, ensures the best possible performance in all terrains and conditions. A vast array of safety and driver assistance features have been fitted in the new model to ensure the wellbeing of all occupants. These include but are not limited to, ABS Braking Assist, Electronic Brake Distribution, an Electronic Stability Program, a Traction Control System, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, several cameras, ISOFIX points and airbags located throughout the vehicle.

Our Verdict

HONGQI are improving every year with their premium car offerings and, if they keep up their current trajectory, could soon establish themselves a global reputation of being amongst the very finest cars on the roads today.