2026 Hongqi HQ9 Facelift Launches in China: PHEV MPV Gets Dual Zero-Gravity Seats, 1,150 km Range, and Advanced AI Cockpit
BAIC’s premium marque Hongqi has officially launched the refreshed 2026 HQ9, positioning the large luxury MPV as a direct challenger to the Lantu Dreamer and Denza D9. The new lineup comprises three trim levels, priced from ¥338,800 to ¥538,800 — roughly $46,600 to $74,200 USD — and goes all-in on plug-in hybrid technology, rear-seat comfort, and a next-generation intelligent cockpit.
The Luxury trim opens the range at ¥338,800 (~$46,600), the Premium trim sits at ¥388,800 (~$53,500), and the top-spec Flagship trim reaches ¥538,800 (~$74,200). Buyers at launch can access a package of incentives including a ¥5,000 cash voucher redeemable at ¥13,000, zero-interest financing over 36 months, a ¥10,000 subsidy for first-time or additional purchases, and up to ¥20,000 for trade-ins.
Exterior: Familiar Flagship Presence, New Color Options
The 2026 HQ9 retains the imposing visual identity of its predecessor. The front fascia continues with Hongqi’s signature large vertical waterfall grille and a centrally mounted vertical logo. Swept wing-shaped DRLs integrate seamlessly into the grille surround, while split LED headlamps occupy the lower section for a distinctive two-tier lighting signature.
Body dimensions remain unchanged at 5,222 mm long, 2,005 mm wide, and 1,935 mm tall, with a 3,200 mm wheelbase — figures befitting a flagship large MPV. At the rear, a full-width connected tail lamp echoes the brand’s family design language, paired with a sporty roof spoiler for visual dynamism.
Four exterior colors are available: the new Starfield Grey, alongside second-generation Midnight Black, Dragon Gall Purple, and Alpine Crystal White.
Interior & Technology: Dual Screens, Snapdragon 8295P, and AI Integration
The cabin receives the most significant overhaul. Five new interior color combinations are offered — including Ivory White with Zen Grey, Deep Night Black, Light Camel Brown with Ink Rock Grey, Vermillion Brown with Ivory White, and Deep Night Black with Vermillion Brown — all complemented by 256-color ambient lighting.
The centerpiece of the new cockpit is a dual 15.6-inch 2.5K display setup combining the central infotainment screen and a co-pilot entertainment screen, both powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip. The system runs Hongqi’s proprietary FAW.OS HMI 5.0 with a flexible architecture deeply integrated with ByteDance’s Doubao large language model. Connectivity includes Apple CarPlay, Huawei HiCar, and CarLink.
The driver also benefits from a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9.89-inch HUD, a column-shift gear selector, and 50W wireless charging.
On the driver-assistance front, the HQ9 debuts Hongqi’s Sinan ADAS system, supporting highway navigation-guided pilot, urban memory navigation assist, and full-scenario intelligent parking.
Rear Cabin: Zero-Gravity Seats, 21.4″ 3K Screen, and Dynaudio Sound
The HQ9’s 2+2+3 seating configuration places particular emphasis on the second row. Both second-row seats are dual zero-gravity recliners with graphene heating, ventilation, massage, and a dedicated control screen. The first row also features heating, ventilation, and massage, while third-row passengers receive seat heating.
Second-row passengers additionally enjoy a 21.4-inch 3K rear entertainment display with gesture control, a built-in refrigerator, fold-out tray tables, and a 16-speaker Dynaudio audio system.
With all three rows occupied in a comfortable seating position, the luggage compartment offers 668 liters of cargo space. With the third row electrically folded flat, capacity expands to a maximum of 3,565 liters. The entire cabin provides 32 storage compartments throughout.
Powertrain: 2.0T PHEV, 358 kW System Output, 168 km EV Range
All 2026 HQ9 variants are powered by a 2.0T plug-in hybrid system. The dedicated hybrid internal combustion engine produces 120 kW (161 hp), paired with front and rear electric motors rated at 165 kW and 70 kW respectively. Combined system output stands at 358 kW (480 hp) with 760 Nm of torque. CLTC pure electric range reaches 168 km, total CLTC combined range hits 1,150 km, and minimum charge-depleted fuel consumption under WLTC is 6.9 L/100 km. A DC fast charge session from 30% to 80% takes just 16.2 minutes. The suspension features CDC intelligent adaptive damping for a balance of ride comfort and handling precision.
Editor’s Take
The refreshed Hongqi HQ9 arrives squarely aimed at the Lantu Dreamer and Denza D9, two of the strongest new-energy MPVs currently on the Chinese market. This update is primarily about closing the gap in cabin technology and rear-seat luxury — areas where those rivals have raised the bar. With its strong brand heritage, updated intelligence stack, and genuinely impressive PHEV powertrain, the HQ9 remains a credible option for buyers seeking a premium domestic alternative.
