Sales of the Hongqi HS5 are starting in Russia, with sources from Rossiyskaya Gazeta citing Alexander Zalogin, the director of the Avilon Hongqi brand, as the primary informant. The report indicates that the premium crossover will reach showrooms within days, and it will be offered in two trim levels: Comfort priced at 5,390,000 rubles and Deluxe priced at 5,990,000 rubles. Zalogin’s briefing suggests key features and options that align with market demand for well-equipped, comfortable SUV choices in the Russian premium segment.
Under the hood, the HS5 pairs a gasoline engine producing 245 horsepower with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a combination designed to deliver confident acceleration and smooth highway cruising. The Comfort package targets everyday practicality and convenience, including a panoramic sunroof that brightens the cabin, a 360-degree camera system that aids parking in tight urban spaces, keyless entry for ease of access, and heated seats to improve comfort in cooler climates. The Deluxe version extends the package with advanced driving controls, a heated steering wheel for winter driving, rear parking sensors to assist parking maneuvers, and a contactless trunk opening system for easier loading of cargo and luggage.
China’s role as a leading auto exporter has been a major talking point in recent industry analyses, with 2023 marking a significant milestone as Chinese manufacturers increased shipments to markets such as Russia and Mexico. In the first 11 months of 2023, China supplied around 730 thousand vehicles to Russia, a figure that reflects roughly sevenfold growth compared with the same period in 2022. Analysts note this surge as part of a broader trend where Chinese brands have been expanding their footprint in international markets, driven by competitive pricing, rapid product development, and expanding export capabilities.
Meanwhile, consumer sentiment in Russia has shown a notable improvement in financing availability and purchasing power, supporting a stronger demand for new vehicles across the spectrum. Observers point to a combination of wage stability and favorable loan conditions as factors enabling more households to consider upgrading to modern, feature-rich crossovers like the Hongqi HS5. This context helps explain the market’s readiness for premium offerings, even amidst broader economic challenges. In this environment, the HS5 is positioned as a compelling option for buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and modern technology in a mid-to-high price segment.