Hongqi HS7 PHEV

Model Overview

The Hongqi HS7 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid mid-to-large SUV launched by Hongqi in August 2024, serving as a strategic offering for the marque to deepen its "Chinese luxury" philosophy in the new energy era. Built on the Honghu Hybrid Platform as an electrified counterpart to the petrol-powered HS7, it is available in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations. First introduced in 2024, the model received an annual update in 2025 before adding variants such as the AWD 2 Million Commemorative Edition. As of May 2026, the official list prices for the 2024 and 2025 Hongqi HS7 PHEV range between RM290,800 and RM345,800, though substantial showroom discounts are widely offered, bringing the entry-level variant's actual purchase price down to around RM239,800. Dimension-wise, the SUV measures 4,995 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,760 mm in height, with a generous 2,920 mm wheelbase. Positioned as one of the few domestic luxury mid-to-large plug-in hybrid SUVs in the RM300,000 bracket, the Hongqi HS7 PHEV carries a product positioning of "Super Hybrid + Smart Flagship", catering to multi-member families and executive business travel, putting it in direct competition with range-extender SUVs from emerging EV players such as the Li L8 and AITO M7, as well as same-segment rivals like the Lynk & Co 09 PHEV.

Design Language

In terms of exterior styling, the Hongqi HS7 PHEV adopts the marque's signature design philosophy of "cascading waterfalls and pillars of strength", projecting a commanding yet dignified road presence. The front fascia boasts an active shutter vertical-slat chrome grille flanked by split-type LED headlamps, with Hongqi’s iconic red bonnet emblem aligning vertically with the central red accent on the grille to deliver unmistakable brand identity. The 2025 facelift replaces the silver lower front bumper skid plate with a sophisticated grey finish, toning down front-end visual contrast and ensuring a more seamless transition between upper and lower elements. Along the flanks, the SUV exhibits sleek, sweeping lines and intentionally eschews trendy flush door handles in favour of conventional grab handles; this practical choice eliminates the risk of handles failing to deploy in freezing or snowy conditions, placing everyday reliability for family users at the forefront. At the rear, full-width LED taillights are paired with dual exhaust garnish on both sides, complemented by a prominent roof spoiler and high-mount stop lamp that inject a touch of sportiness. The interior remains the centrepiece of the HS7 PHEV’s luxury pretensions. Alongside the solid Graphite Black cabin, the 2025 lineup adds dual-tone colour combinations including Danxia Brown/Graphite Black and Floating Light Brown/Quiet Grey to cater to individual preferences. The centre console introduces Meteorite Grey faux-jade and Porcelain White stone-textured trim inserts, lending a tactile refinement and unique visual appeal that elevate the cabin's premium ambiance. Expansive soft-padded surfaces paired with genuine wood inserts and metallic accents give the interior a steady, meticulously crafted feel.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the skin, the Hongqi HS7 PHEV is powered by a 2.0T plug-in hybrid powertrain developed on the Honghu Hybrid Platform, available in both 2WD and AWD drivetrain configurations. The hybrid setup pairs a 2.0T turbocharged petrol engine with permanent magnet synchronous electric motors; the engine (engine code CA4GC20TDH-42) develops 120 kW (163 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, featuring direct fuel injection, an aluminium-alloy cylinder block and head, and an impressive thermal efficiency of 44.42%. On the electric front, the 2WD model is driven by a front-mounted single motor rated at 168 kW and 340 Nm of torque, whereas the AWD version adopts a dual-motor front-and-rear layout that substantially elevates output, achieving a combined system power of 358 kW (approximately 487 PS) and an official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 6.8 seconds. The 2WD model delivers a combined output of 288 kW, completing the century sprint in 8.8 seconds. Energy is supplied by a 20.1 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a CLTC pure electric range of 100–125 km (around 95–102 km under WLTC test cycles). On a full tank and full charge, the CLTC combined cruising range reaches up to 1,200 km, with the 2WD model exceeding 1,200 km and the AWD variant achieving approximately 1,102 km. Efficiency-wise, the WLTC combined fuel consumption is rated as low as 1.41–1.67 L/100 km, with battery-depleted fuel consumption sitting between 5.3 and 5.7 L/100 km. For charging, DC fast charging is supported, replenishing the battery from 30% to 80% state-of-charge in roughly 25 to 30 minutes.

Chassis and Handling

The chassis utilises a four-wheel independent suspension setup comprising front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link layout, paired with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive systems. Higher-spec 2025 variants come equipped with the iDCS intelligent continuous damping control system that dynamically adjusts damper firmness based on real-time road conditions; AWD models can also be optioned with air suspension to further iron out uneven road surfaces. Ground clearance stands at 160 mm, with an approach angle of 20° and a departure angle of 22°, granting the SUV capable light off-road ability. When it comes to driving dynamics, the Hongqi HS7 PHEV offers five selectable drive modes (including Eco, Comfort, and Sport) and three hybrid operation modes, alongside five levels of energy recuperation, enabling drivers to tailor power delivery and regenerative braking strength to prevailing driving conditions and personal preferences. Overall suspension tuning leans comfortably towards ride plushness, ensuring composed high-speed cruising stability alongside solid roll control from the air suspension during cornering; switching into Sport mode instantly firms up the dampers, providing confident body control through bends.

Cabin and Features

The Hongqi HS7 PHEV features a dual-screen digital cockpit anchored by a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster and a 12.6-inch floating central touchscreen, complemented by a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and an electronic gear shifter. The infotainment system operates on an integrated telematics platform supporting 4G connectivity, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, full-scenario voice control (covering multimedia, navigation, telephony, and climate settings), as well as remote vehicle management via a smartphone app. For audio entertainment, high-spec variants are treated to a 12-speaker Dynaudio premium sound system featuring active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. Comfort appointments include genuine leather upholstery (upgraded to Nappa leather on range-topping trims), heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic glass sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, and ambient lighting. In terms of cabin practicality, the 2025 6-seater variant outfits the second row with standalone airline-style captain seats complete with multi-way power adjustment and heating functions; the third-row seats fold completely flat, expanding boot capacity from 210 litres to a massive 1,847 litres to easily accommodate bulky luggage or recreational gear—a level of versatility highly favoured by family buyers.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

The Hongqi HS7 PHEV delivers stellar passive safety credentials, underpinned by a 9H4M body cage structure composed of 74% high-strength steel. Its structural crashworthiness meets both the 2021 C-NCAP 5-star rating and the 2020 C-IASI Good (G-grade) standard, achieving class-leading benchmarks in occupant protection. Active safety is equally thorough, with 12 multi-scenario active safety systems fitted as standard across the range, including Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Door Open Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring / Lane Change Assist, Driver Fatigue Detection, Roll Stability Control, Sentry Mode, and Emergency Roadside Call. For driver assistance, the SUV is equipped with a Level 2 (Level 2+ on flagship trims) ADAS suite comprising SACC (Super Adaptive Cruise Control with cornering speed adaptation and stop-and-go assist), Lane Centring Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Navigation Guided Pilot, Automatic Parking Assist, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. The ADAS suite leverages 5G V2X connectivity to analyse traffic and road conditions in real time across common driving scenarios such as overtaking and parking. On the high-voltage electrical safety front, the battery pack carries an IP68 dust- and water-resistance rating and incorporates active precision spray cooling to maintain battery thermal safety during water wading and extreme operating conditions.

Market Performance and Reception

Since its market launch, the Hongqi HS7 PHEV has experienced noticeable sales fluctuations in the premium PHEV SUV segment. In the second half of 2025, the model entered a relatively active sales run with monthly deliveries hovering in the hundreds—hitting an interim peak of 1,447 units in September 2025, following 849 units in August, before softening to 492 units in October, just 19 units in November, and recovering to 147 units in December. Heading into 2026, deliveries stood at 101 units in January, rose to 394 units in February, eased to 347 units in March, and tapered off to 40 units in April, bringing January–April cumulative sales to 882 units and reflecting a lack of sustained sales momentum overall. In terms of user feedback, owners widely praise the vehicle's "cavernous cabin space", "punchy performance (notably the AWD model's brisk 6.8-second 0-100 km/h acceleration)", "plush and composed ride quality", and "generous cabin materials combined with Hongqi’s stately road presence". Conversely, reported owner gripes highlight a modest pure electric driving range (with owners wishing for a 150–200 km range bracket), higher fuel consumption during low-speed urban driving once the battery is depleted, occasional infotainment lag, and the inability to freely install third-party apps. Industry observers note that while the Hongqi HS7 PHEV showcases genuine engineering capability and product substance in its bid to tackle the luxury mid-to-large PHEV SUV segment, its brand equity and retail acceptance have yet to translate into strong volume sales, leaving a noticeable gap compared to mainstream class leaders in terms of dealership footfall and word-of-mouth reputation. As an essential strategic pillar in Hongqi's ongoing electrification push, the HS7 PHEV’s technical package and commercial traction will continue to evolve alongside the brand's long-term transformation strategy.