The Hongqi H9 2.0T (252 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT is a full-size luxury sedan produced by the Chinese automaker Hongqi from August 2020 to 2024. Representing a significant step forward for the brand, the H9 aimed to compete with established international luxury marques. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a mild hybrid system paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), occupied a central position within the H9 lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and features. The H9 is built on a dedicated rear-wheel drive platform, a departure from the front-wheel drive layouts common in many Chinese sedans, and signaled Hongqi’s ambition to be recognized as a serious player in the global luxury car market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hongqi |
| Model | H9 |
| Generation | H9 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (252 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT |
| Start of production | August, 2020 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 252 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1800-4000 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CA4GC20TD-31 |
| Engine displacement | 1989 cm3 (121.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2325 kg (5125.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 5137 mm (202.24 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3060 mm (120.47 in.) |
| Front track | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1629 mm (64.13 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1169 mm (46.02 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the H9 2.0T is the CA4GC20TD-31, a 1.989-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to deliver 252 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800 and 4000 rpm. The mild hybrid system, while not capable of full electric drive, provides assistance during acceleration and enables start-stop functionality for improved fuel economy. The engine’s architecture features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to the car’s responsive driving experience. The DCT was chosen for its efficiency and performance advantages over a traditional torque converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The H9 2.0T offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The combination of the turbocharged engine and the DCT results in brisk acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 7.8 seconds. While not a sports sedan, the H9 provides ample power for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The DCT’s programming prioritizes smoothness and efficiency, with gear changes generally seamless. Compared to potential higher-output variants (which were not widely available), the 2.0T offers a more balanced approach, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort over outright performance. The rear-wheel drive configuration contributes to a more engaging driving feel compared to front-wheel drive alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The H9 2.0T typically came well-equipped, reflecting its luxury positioning. Standard features included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offered additional features like premium audio systems, ventilated and massaging front seats, and more extensive interior trim options. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and luxury, with a focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The H9’s chassis is designed for comfort and stability. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup, while the rear features an independent multi-link suspension. Air suspension was available as an optional extra, further enhancing ride quality. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The H9’s suspension tuning prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hongqi H9 was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. Critics noted the H9’s ambition to challenge established luxury brands, but also pointed out areas for improvement in terms of brand recognition and refinement. Compared to other trims in the H9 lineup, the 2.0T Mild Hybrid DCT offered a compelling balance of performance and efficiency. Fuel economy figures of around 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) were competitive for a vehicle of its size and class. Reliability reports have been limited due to the relatively short production run and limited export market.
Legacy
The Hongqi H9 2.0T Mild Hybrid DCT represents a pivotal moment for the Hongqi brand, demonstrating its commitment to producing world-class luxury vehicles. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the H9 has established a foothold for Hongqi in the competitive luxury sedan segment. On the used car market, the H9 2.0T is becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking for a stylish, well-equipped, and relatively affordable luxury sedan. The powertrain, while not without its complexities, has proven to be generally reliable in early reports, and the availability of spare parts is improving as the brand gains wider recognition.
