The Chinese manufacturer Hongqi, long associated with government transport, is expanding into the minibus segment with the HQ9, which has recently appeared in public without any camouflage. This move signals the brand’s intention to broaden its lineup beyond sedans and SUVs and to offer a versatile, modern option for commercial and executive transport needs.
The HQ9’s exterior clearly follows Hongqi’s recognizable design language, aligning with the family look found on other models. A dominant grille dominates the front fascia, featuring vertical chrome slats and a narrow vertical emblem described by some observers as a red flag, a nod to the brand’s signature symbolism. This bold front end is paired with a broad stance that suggests both presence and practicality, hinting at a spacious interior behind the large panels.
Viewed from the side, the HQ9 presents a clean, straight roofline that emphasizes practicality and headroom. Chrome trim outlines the windows, lending a touch of refinement, while the pillars appear notably thick, a design cue that often signals robust structural integrity and generous interior space. The silhouette balances a streamlined profile with the instinctive sturdiness expected of a people-mcarrier designed for regular use and long drives alike.
Towards the rear, a spoiler integrates a third brake light, while the tail section reveals a large loading aperture ideal for luggage and equipment. Vertical taillights extend upward and are joined by an LED strip that creates a contemporary, cohesive lighting signature from rear to sides, enhancing visibility and memorability in day-to-day driving as well as in fleet operations.
The interior of the HQ9 showcases technology-focused features tailored to comfort and command. A digital instrument panel sits behind the steering wheel, providing drivers with clear, configurable readouts. A large infotainment touchscreen anchors the center console, delivering navigation, media, connectivity, and vehicle settings in a single, accessible interface. A compact gear selector sits low on the console, paired with a recessed cradle designed to hold a cordless phone or similar device, underscoring Hongqi’s attention to driver convenience and in-cabin ergonomics.
In the second row, the seats are covered in dark red leather, delivering a premium feel for passengers and a sense of ambiance that suits executive travel or chauffeur-driven services. Each seat offers a range of customizations, including extendable footrests for added comfort on longer journeys. The seating arrangement and materials emphasize a balance between luxury and practicality, aiming to keep occupants relaxed during trips that can span urban corridors or highway stretches alike.
Under the hood, the HQ9 is expected to offer a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces around 252 horsepower. This setup promises solid performance for a minibus, enabling confident acceleration and steady highway cruising while maintaining efficiency appropriate for daily fleets. There is also talk of a hybrid variant in development, which could combine the turbocharged engine with electric propulsion to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. While specifics about the hybrid powertrain remain unconfirmed, the possibility aligns with broader industry trends toward electrified passenger transport solutions.