The Hongqi HS5 2.0T Automatic, produced between 2019 and 2023, represents a significant step in the revitalization of the Hongqi brand, a historically important Chinese automaker. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the HS5 lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency for the growing Chinese SUV market. The HS5 itself is a five-seater, five-door SUV built on a dedicated platform, marking Hongqi’s ambition to compete with established international brands. This specific 2.0T Automatic configuration was a key component in attracting a broader customer base, offering a more accessible entry point into the Hongqi experience compared to higher-trim models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hongqi |
| Model | HS5 |
| Generation | HS5 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (224 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 4500-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1650-4500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1650-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CA4GC20TD-32 |
| 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 | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2205 kg (4861.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4760 mm (187.4 in.) |
| Width | 1907 mm (75.08 in.) |
| Height | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2870 mm (112.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 967 mm (38.07 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 923 mm (36.34 in.) |
| Approach angle | 20° |
| Departure angle | 28° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 | 235/60 R18; 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the HS5 2.0T Automatic is the CA4GC20TD-32, a 1.989-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively high output of 224 horsepower and 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to mitigate turbo lag and maintain consistent power delivery across the engine’s operating range. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not a cutting-edge design, is known for its reliability and smooth operation. It’s tuned for comfort rather than outright performance, prioritizing seamless gear changes over aggressive downshifts.
Driving Characteristics
The HS5 2.0T Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.8 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t position it as a particularly sporty SUV. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, with gear changes being largely imperceptible. Compared to manual transmission versions of the HS5, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use, especially in congested urban environments. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power throughout the rev range, making overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides decent traction in normal conditions, but may struggle in slippery conditions compared to all-wheel-drive variants available in other HS5 trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The HS5 2.0T Automatic typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offered additional features like premium sound systems, ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior appointments focused on providing a luxurious feel, with soft-touch materials and a well-designed dashboard layout.
Chassis & Braking
The HS5 2.0T Automatic features an independent suspension setup at both the front and rear. The front utilizes a McPherson strut design, while the rear employs a multi-link configuration. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Stabilizer bars are included at both ends to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance safety. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hongqi HS5 2.0T Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. Critics noted that while the engine offered adequate performance, it wasn’t as refined or powerful as some of its European and Japanese rivals. Fuel economy, at 7.9 l/100 km, was considered average for its class. Compared to other HS5 trims, such as the 1.8T, the 2.0T offered a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying its higher price point. Compared to the higher-end trims, it offered a more accessible entry point into the Hongqi brand without sacrificing too much in terms of luxury or features.
Legacy
The Hongqi HS5 2.0T Automatic played a crucial role in establishing Hongqi as a viable competitor in the Chinese SUV market. While newer models have since been introduced, the HS5 remains a popular choice in the used car market, known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs. The CA4GC20TD-32 engine has proven to be a durable and dependable unit, with few reported major issues. As Hongqi continues to expand its global presence, the HS5 2.0T Automatic will be remembered as a key stepping stone in the brand’s resurgence.
