Hongqi is a car company that has historically catered to the top echelons of the Chinese Communist Party, earning it the nickname "Rolls-Royce of China." However, while the company's L series remains exclusive and only available to those with the right connections, the company's H series is seeing commercial success, with nearly 200,000 cars sold last year. And the Hongqi E-HS9 electric SUV, the newest model, is making waves.
The Hongqi E-HS9, designed by Giles Taylor, a former employee of Rolls-Royce, has a commanding grille, dramatic door opening, and an indicator strip made of chrome and LED lights on the C pillar. An impressive touchscreen runs the length of the dashboard and controls the climate, as well as electrically adjustable seats with heating, cooling, and massaging capabilities. Pockets in the doors and subtle lighting show that careful consideration was given even though the material quality fell short.
The driver is provided with a digital dial display, and the center stack of controls is a text-heavy infotainment touchscreen. The Norwegian top trim level has six seats, while the Chinese top trim level only has four. Climate controls and device charging outlets are located in the back of the center console, and the second-row seats do not massage but do have an armrest. The very back has decent headroom, although getting in and out of can be challenging.
The Hongqi E-HS9 is a large vehicle, evident from the size of its hood, yet the regenerative braking system is barely apparent even at its maximum level. The car has respectable acceleration for its size, and the air suspension makes for a comfortable ride. The steering is not highly soft and needs more precision, like in other Chinese automobiles.