Hongqi H5 Classic

Model Overview

The Hongqi H5 Classic (also known as the Hongqi H5 Classic Edition) is a B+-segment luxury executive sedan under FAW's Hongqi brand, serving as a strategic product in the marque's transition from a state ceremonial carmaker to a mass-market brand. First launched at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in April 2018, it was the first model developed for the mainstream consumer market under the "New Hongqi" strategy. The debut of the Hongqi H5 marked a brand-new development phase focused on a younger, civilian demographic. By January 2026, cumulative sales across the Hongqi H5 series surpassed 800,000 units, with full-year sales reaching 188,000 units in 2025—making it the only Chinese brand in the top ten annual sales ranking for its segment. Following the launch of the all-new generation H5 in 2022, the Hongqi H5 Classic continues to be sold alongside its successor under the Classic badge, retaining a solid foothold in the mid-size ICE sedan market courtesy of its stately styling and highly competitive showroom pricing.

Design Language

In terms of exterior styling, the Hongqi H5 Classic blends traditional Chinese cultural heritage with modern aesthetics. Up front, it features the marque's signature "high mountains and flowing water" waterfall grille, complete with 12 chrome vertical slats inspired by the traditional Chinese twelve two-hour periods. A striking red accent strip extends from the bonnet down through the centre of the grille, drawing inspiration from the central axis of Beijing's Forbidden City as a contemporary interpretation of Hongqi's iconic stand-up bonnet emblem. Flanking the grille are sharp split LED headlamps complemented by L-shaped daytime running light (DRL) strips below, delivering a commanding visual presence after dark.

Along the sides, a continuous dual waistline paired with a sleek fastback roofline lends the sedan a poised, athletic silhouette. Round the back, full-width LED taillights are paired with dual exhaust exits on both sides and an integrated subtle lip spoiler, creating a distinct, layered look. Dimension-wise, the Hongqi H5 Classic measures 4,945 mm long, 1,845 mm wide, and 1,470 mm tall, with a generous 2,875 mm wheelbase, giving it a clear dimensional edge over rival joint-venture models in its class. Inside, the cabin adopts a clean, wraparound dashboard layout with brushed silver accents and piano black trim. Mid-to-high spec variants gain a 7-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a 10-inch floating touchscreen infotainment display, striking a neat balance between digital tech and ergonomic ease. Generous soft-touch leather upholstery throughout significantly enhances the cabin's upmarket, premium ambiance.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet, the Hongqi H5 Classic provides buyers with a diverse range of powertrain options, spanning 1.5T, 1.8T, and 2.0T turbocharged engines to cater to varying driving requirements.

Diving into the technical specifications, the 1.5T engine produces 124 kW and 258 Nm of torque, tuned for smooth and fuel-efficient delivery via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission; the 1.8T unit is bolstered by a 48V mild hybrid system, pushing out 145 kW paired with an Aisin 6-speed torque converter automatic, offering prompt throttle response and impressive shift refinement; meanwhile, the range-topping 2.0T mill delivers 165 kW and 340 Nm of torque, offering ample high-end punch. All powertrains comply with China 6b emissions standards. In terms of efficiency, the 1.5T variant achieves a WLTC combined fuel consumption of around 6.2 L/100 km, while the 2.0T variant requires minimum RON 95 petrol.

Chassis and Ride Handling

Underneath, the Hongqi H5 Classic adopts a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup, underpinned by front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension system. This high-spec suspension layout—typical of premium executive sedans—delivers superior cornering stability and passenger comfort. Steering duties are handled by an electric power steering (EPS) system that offers reassuring high-speed weighting and light, effortless manoeuvring during low-speed parking. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) and Auto Brake Hold fitted as standard across the range, providing welcome convenience in stop-and-go city traffic. Notably, double-glazed acoustic glass comes standard on all variants, working alongside extensive acoustic insulation across the engine bay and undercarriage to effectively suppress wind and road roar, giving it class-leading NVH suppression for its price point. Out on the open road, the chassis feels planted and surefooted at highway cruising speeds, tracking as if glued to the tarmac; however, the firmer damping setup can translate into noticeable ride harshness over potholes and rough road patches.

Cabin and Convenience Features

Inside, the Hongqi H5 Classic focuses on everyday practicality and intuitive tech. The infotainment is powered by the Hongqi Smart Connection system (with revisions across different model years), supporting GPS navigation, intelligent voice command, smartphone integration (including CarPlay), connected telematics, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Selected higher-spec trims add a Head-Up Display (HUD), Qi wireless smartphone charging, a 12-speaker premium sound system, and ambient interior lighting, further heightening the executive feel.

On the comfort front, leather upholstery comes standard across the entire range, complete with a power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The rear bench is generously cushioned with ample under-thigh support, ensuring relaxed long-distance cruising for rear occupants. Climate control is managed via a dual-zone automatic system with dedicated rear air-conditioning vents, ensuring optimum comfort for all passengers. However, a notable practical shortcoming is that the rear seatbacks do not fold down, limiting boot expansion flexibility. While the standard boot capacity is merely average for its class, the flat loading bay is more than adequate for regular family duties.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the Hongqi H5 Classic sets a high benchmark in its segment with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Its body structure uses a high-strength safety cage design reinforced with high-tensile steel in critical load-bearing paths to dissipate collision impact energy effectively. Active safety highlights standard across the range include EPB, ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) display. Higher-spec variants step up to Level 2 driver assistance systems, bundling Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) / active safety systems, Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Driver Fatigue Warning, making highway journeys significantly safer and more relaxing.

For passive protection, dual front airbags are standard, with higher trims adding front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags (totalling six airbags), while the flagship grade adds a driver's knee airbag for comprehensive cabin protection. Furthermore, ISOFIX child seat anchor points are standard throughout the lineup, catering directly to family-oriented buyers.

Market Performance and Verdict

The Hongqi H5 Classic represents a landmark milestone for Chinese automakers in the mid-size executive sedan segment. Since its 2018 debut, cumulative sales across the Hongqi H5 model family have surpassed 800,000 units. Full-year sales in 2025 alone hit 188,000 units—averaging a delivery every three minutes. As of April 2026, monthly deliveries continue to hold steady above 9,000 units, consistently ranking among the top ten best-selling mid-size sedans and standing as the undisputed leader among homegrown Chinese D-segment/B-segment entries.

In terms of pricing, the Hongqi H5 Classic offers exceptional value for money. While its official retail price ranges from RM145,800 to RM215,800, fierce market competition and aggressive dealership incentives have seen brand-new 1.8T variants transacting down into the RM100,000 price bracket, making it one of the very few luxury-badged executive sedans obtainable at such an accessible price point. Following the 2022 arrival of the next-generation Hongqi H5, the H5 Classic has continued alongside it as a classic edition, creating a clear two-tier product strategy: the Classic targets cost-conscious, pragmatic buyers with its dignified styling and high spec-to-price ratio, whereas the all-new H5 focuses on cutting-edge tech and dynamic performance. Owner feedback reflects widespread praise for the car's commanding road presence, generous interior room, rich equipment list, and the prestige and national pride carried by the Hongqi crest. On the flip side, common gripes include higher fuel consumption in congested urban traffic for petrol variants, occasional infotainment software sluggishness, and minor trim rattles from select interior plastics. All told, as the foundation stone of Hongqi's mass-market expansion, the Hongqi H5 Classic leveraged its segment-busting proportions, stately design, and aggressive pricing to break the long-standing stranglehold of foreign joint ventures, cementing its status as an iconic milestone in China's automotive rise.