Hongqi HS5

Model Overview

The Hongqi HS5 is the first luxury B-segment SUV launched by the FAW Hongqi brand in 2019, marking a crucial strategic milestone in Hongqi’s pivot towards the mainstream family car segment. As the first mass-production SUV to adopt Hongqi’s "Noble, Exquisite, Artistic" design philosophy, the HS5 shoulders the brand’s mission of youthfulness, accessibility, and tech-focused appeal, swiftly establishing itself as a core player in the RM150,000 to RM250,000 petrol-powered SUV market. In November 2024, the 2025 Hongqi HS5 officially hit the market, with prices ranging from RM183,800 to RM249,800. The entire line-up features a 2.0T+8AT powertrain as standard, alongside a newly introduced "Xuan Ying Edition" equipped with a blacked-out sports styling package.

Design Language

The 2025 Hongqi HS5 continues and refines the signature "Noble, Exquisite, Artistic" family design language. Up front, it sports a "cascading waterfall" vertical slatted grille paired with a centreline illuminated flag emblem running from the grille onto the bonnet, delivering a commanding visual presence steeped in Chinese luxury. Flanking the front fascia are sleek, sharp split-LED headlights, complementing the full-width "arrow feather" LED taillights linked by a chrome accent bar at the rear for immediate brand recognition when lit. The new "Xuan Ying Edition" adds a sportier, more aggressive edge by blacking out 12 exterior elements—including the front grille, alloy wheels, window surrounds, roof rails, and lower body cladding—accentuated by bold red brake callipers. Dimensionally, the SUV measures 4,785 mm in length, 1,905 mm in width, and 1,700 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,870 mm, firmly placing it in the B-segment SUV class. Inside, the wraparound cockpit is anchored by dual 12.3-inch integrated displays, elevated by extensive soft-touch upholstery, metallic garnishes, and genuine wood veneer to create an opulent yet tech-driven ambience.

Powertrain and Performance

Powertrain hardware is a defining strength of the Hongqi HS5, which comes standard across the range with FAW’s in-house developed new-generation high-output 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (CA4GC20TD-35), backed by 77 patented technologies. Utilising advanced engineering such as a high-compression-ratio Miller cycle, the mill delivers a robust 185 kW (252 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, outperforming most 2.0T offerings from rival joint-venture SUVs on paper. Power is channelled through an Aisin 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission (8AT), replacing the previous 6AT unit. With this 2.0T+8AT setup, the 2025 HS5 2WD completes the 0-100 km/h century sprint in 7.6 seconds, while the 4WD version achieves it in 7.7 seconds. In terms of fuel economy, the SUV delivers a combined WLTC fuel consumption rating between 7.34 L/100 km and 7.92 L/100 km, with top speed rated at 215 km/h.

Chassis and Handling

Under the skin, the Hongqi HS5 is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or real-time all-wheel drive (AWD), featuring front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension setup across all variants. The chassis has been expertly tuned towards a solid, composed ride, striking a well-judged balance between plush cruising comfort and lateral body control. Boasting a generous 200 mm ground clearance alongside an approach angle of 25 degrees and a departure angle of 30 degrees, it offers commendable obstacle clearance for its class. The 4WD variants feature a multi-plate clutch on-demand AWD system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles to enhance traction on slippery surfaces. High-spec models further benefit from Continuous Damping Control (CDC) adaptive dampers, which continuously adjust damping forces in real time to iron out road imperfections while reducing body roll during spirited cornering.

Cabin and Equipment

Designed around an "Intelligent Future Cockpit" philosophy, the Hongqi HS5 features standard dual 12.3-inch connected widescreen displays—consisting of a full digital instrument cluster for the driver and a floating central touchscreen with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Infotainment duties are driven by the Hongqi IVI 2.0 intelligent connected system with an integrated iFLYTEK 2.0 voice module, supporting continuous natural speech, wake-up-free prompts, and voice control across 17 vehicle functions. The system offers full support for over-the-air (OTA) updates, Huawei HiCar, Carlink, and factory CarLife smartphone connectivity for seamless mobile integration. Audiophiles will appreciate the premium BOSE sound system fitted as standard on mid-to-high-spec variants, pairing with multi-colour ambient cabin lighting for an immersive sensory experience.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety and intelligent driving front, the 2025 Hongqi HS5 is equipped with a Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) as standard across the range. Backed by a comprehensive sensor suite comprising a monocular forward camera, millimetre-wave radar, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the package bundles Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and Lane Change Assist, effectively easing driver fatigue on long-distance journeys. In terms of passive safety, the vehicle is engineered around a high-rigidity safety cage structure, with high-strength steel accounting for over 60% and hot-stamped steel reaching a maximum tensile strength of 2,000 MPa. Six airbags—comprising dual front, front side, and full-length side curtain airbags—are standard across the line-up, ensuring comprehensive collision protection. In addition, a 360-degree surround-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, and a digital streaming rear-view mirror further enhance parking ease and all-round visibility.

Market Performance and Verdict

As the cornerstone model of the Hongqi brand, the HS5 has racked up over 600,000 cumulative sales since its debut, establishing itself as a benchmark in the RM150,000 to RM250,000 petrol-powered SUV market. In 2025, annual deliveries surpassed 86,000 units, earning it 13th place in the mid-size SUV segment. However, heading into 2026, intensified EV competition and price wars led to a notable sales correction, with March monthly sales recording 5,242 units—a 30.62% drop year-on-year. From owner feedback, the punchy 2.0T+8AT drivetrain, commanding exterior road presence, and generous comfort kit are widely praised, though higher urban fuel consumption, occasional infotainment lag, and slightly firm damping remain common talking points. Overall, with its distinctive Chinese luxury styling, potent powertrain, and comprehensive tech suite, the Hongqi HS5 successfully sets a strong value benchmark among homegrown luxury B-segment SUVs, with its sustained sales track record reflecting the strategic triumph of Hongqi’s mainstream market evolution.