The Hongqi H5 II 2.0T Automatic, launched in July 2022, represents a significant step forward for the Hongqi brand, China’s domestic luxury car manufacturer. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the H5 II lineup, this variant combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The H5 II is a sedan designed to compete with established international brands in the executive car segment, offering a blend of traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern technology. It builds upon the foundation of the original H5, aiming to provide a more refined and technologically advanced driving experience. The H5 II is primarily marketed within China, representing a key model in Hongqi’s strategy to revitalize the brand and establish a strong presence in the domestic luxury market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hongqi |
| Model | H5 |
| Generation | H5 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (224 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 6.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (US mpg) | 36.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (UK mpg) | 44.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (km/l) | 15.6 km/l |
| 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) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 208 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp |
| Power per litre | 112.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CA4GC20TD-33 |
| 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 systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4988 mm (196.38 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13° |
| Departure angle | 16° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17; 225/50 R18; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the H5 II 2.0T Automatic lies the CA4GC20TD-33, a 1.989-liter (121.38 cubic inches) turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficient combustion and power output. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, enhances the engine’s performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 224 horsepower and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque. This power is then channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and responsive gear changes. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration with fuel efficiency, providing adequate performance for both city and highway driving. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The H5 II 2.0T Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The 224 hp engine provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.4 seconds. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the gear ratios are well-suited for everyday driving. Compared to lower-powered variants of the H5 II, such as the 1.5T engine, the 2.0T offers significantly more power and responsiveness. However, it doesn’t match the more dynamic driving experience of potential future performance-focused trims. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it may lack the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The H5 II 2.0T Automatic typically comes well-equipped with standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These include leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior design emphasizes a modern aesthetic with high-quality materials and a focus on passenger comfort. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with a central touchscreen dominating the center console.
Chassis & Braking
The H5 II 2.0T Automatic utilizes an independent suspension system on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hongqi H5 II 2.0T Automatic has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and modern features. Critics have noted its competitive pricing compared to established international brands. Fuel economy is rated at 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg), which is competitive within its segment. Compared to the 1.5T variant, the 2.0T offers a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying the higher price point for buyers seeking more power. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the H5 II’s driving dynamics are not as engaging as some of its European competitors.
Legacy
The Hongqi H5 II 2.0T Automatic represents a crucial step in Hongqi’s ambition to become a leading luxury car brand in China. The powertrain, while not groundbreaking, is proven and reliable. Long-term reliability data is still emerging, but initial reports suggest that the engine and transmission are durable. As a relatively new model, the H5 II 2.0T Automatic is still establishing its reputation in the used car market. However, its combination of comfort, features, and competitive pricing suggests that it will hold its value reasonably well over time. The H5 II, and particularly the 2.0T variant, is expected to play a significant role in shaping Hongqi’s future and solidifying its position in the competitive automotive landscape.
