The Hongqi H9, particularly the facelifted 2024 model equipped with the 3.0T V6 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant step forward for China’s luxury automotive brand. Introduced in April 2024, this variant occupies the top echelon of the H9 lineup, offering a blend of sophisticated styling, advanced technology, and robust performance. The H9 itself is a full-size luxury sedan positioned to compete with established international brands, aiming to redefine the perception of Chinese automotive engineering and quality. This specific 3.0T configuration is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a powerful and refined driving experience, prioritizing comfort and prestige.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hongqi |
| Model | H9 (facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0T V6 (337 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 8.52 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (US mpg) | 27.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (UK mpg) | 33.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (km/l) | 11.7 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 167.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 337 Hp |
| Power per litre | 114.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 445 Nm (328.22 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CA6GV30TD-05 |
| Engine displacement | 2951 cm3 (180.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Approach angle | 16° |
| Departure angle | 17° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Introduction
The 2024 Hongqi H9 3.0T V6 Automatic represents the flagship powertrain option for the H9 model. Launched as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this variant builds upon the foundation laid by the initial H9 release, aiming to elevate the vehicle’s position in the competitive luxury sedan segment. The H9 is built on the Hongqi H platform, a dedicated architecture for large, rear-wheel-drive sedans. It’s a key model in Hongqi’s strategy to revive the brand’s historical prominence and establish it as a symbol of modern Chinese luxury. The facelift brings subtle but significant styling updates, along with enhancements to the interior and technology features.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the H9 3.0T lies the CA6GV30TD-05, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is paired with a supercharger and intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. The engine produces 337 horsepower and 445 Nm (328.22 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during city driving. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, designed to deliver smooth and responsive gear changes. While specific details about the transmission’s internal architecture are limited, it’s understood to be a conventional torque-converter automatic, tuned for comfort and refinement rather than outright sportiness.
Driving Characteristics
The H9 3.0T offers a distinctly comfortable and refined driving experience. The 337 hp engine provides ample power for effortless acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth transitions between gears, minimizing disruptions to the driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the H9 3.0T offers a respectable level of performance for its size and weight. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced feel, although it doesn’t offer the dynamic agility of some European competitors. The air suspension system, standard on this trim, further enhances ride comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0T V6 Automatic represents the highest trim level of the H9. Standard features include premium leather upholstery, wood trim accents, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The interior boasts a large touchscreen infotainment system with integrated navigation, smartphone connectivity, and a premium sound system. Available options include upgraded leather packages, rear-seat entertainment systems, and a head-up display. The exterior features distinctive chrome accents, unique wheel designs, and LED lighting elements to differentiate it from lower trims.
Chassis & Braking
The H9 3.0T utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, both incorporating air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration is designed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system employs an electric power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hongqi H9 3.0T has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. Critics have noted the vehicle’s bold styling and its attempt to challenge established luxury brands. Compared to other H9 trims, the 3.0T offers a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price point. Fuel economy, at 8.52 l/100 km, is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and performance. Reliability data is still emerging, but early reports suggest that the H9 is a well-built and dependable vehicle.
Legacy
The Hongqi H9 3.0T V6 Automatic is a pivotal model for the brand, representing a bold statement of intent and a commitment to delivering world-class luxury vehicles. Its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, but the vehicle’s robust powertrain and well-engineered chassis suggest a promising future. In the used car market, the H9 3.0T is expected to hold its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and luxurious sedan with a strong brand identity. It signifies a shift in the Chinese automotive landscape, demonstrating the country’s growing capabilities in luxury vehicle design and manufacturing.
