In the third quarter of 2022, a potential entry of a new Chinese brand into the Russian market could begin, bringing with it a lifetime warranty for the first owner. Reports from Chinese Automobiles, citing its own sources, indicate that the Hongqi brand, controlled by the state-run FAW Group, had already started the certification process for its vehicles in Russia.
The lineup under consideration features four models: three sedans and one crossover. The sedans span different sizes, equipment levels, and price brackets. The Hongqi H5 stands as a modernized refresh of the Mazda 6, followed by the larger Hongqi H7 and the top-tier Hongqi H9, which is positioned as a premium rival to the Mercedes-Benz S‑Class. The electric performance model Hongqi E-HS9 sits at the pinnacle of the range, with output ranging from 435 to 551 horsepower and a stated range of 460 to 690 kilometers according to the NEDC cycle.
Hongqi has long leaned into sedans, a choice rooted in its historical role of supplying government limousines in the late 1950s, transitioning in the 1990s to more civil-friendly models, and then expanding into consumer sales in the 2000s. In recent years, the brand has broadened its reach beyond China to markets such as Norway and Azerbaijan, while the flagship remains a crossover—the fully electric Hongqi E-HS9.
According to a source close to the situation, the E-HS9 is already present in Russia even before formal certification, being offered through at least two independent dealerships. One of these dealers is actively negotiating with Hongqi to secure official distributor status for the brand’s electric models in the Russian Federation. This development suggests a gradual introduction strategy, with luxury sedans and electric crossovers targeting high-end buyers while leveraging the brand’s reputation for premium engineering and advanced features. In China, pricing for the H5 is translated to rubles at roughly 1.2 million, indicating a positioning in the upper-middle to luxury segment that Russian consumers would encounter upon official rollout.
Analysts note that if FAW decides to prioritize its first satellite brand in Russia, Chery could follow suit with new sub-brands like Exeed and Omoda, signaling a broader regional expansion plan. Meanwhile, model availability and specifications will likely influence customer interest in the early stages, with the E-HS9 drawing attention as a fully electric offering in a market increasingly oriented toward electrification. The possibility of a dual-brand strategy—one focusing on luxury sedans and electric crossovers, the other building a broader fleet—reflects a strategic approach to competing in a diverse Russian automotive landscape. Market observers also remind readers that content on “Driving” can now be accessed on RuTube, expanding the media footprint surroundingHongqi’s rollout.
Cited information indicates that even before formal certification clears, several Hongqi models are already engaging with the Russian market through independent channels, underscoring a measured, incremental launch. As the brand contemplates official distribution and service networks, enthusiasts and potential buyers monitor the status of certification, dealer negotiations, and the trajectory of pricing, which will ultimately shape Hongqi’s early reputation in Russia and the wider post-Soviet region. The emergence of Hongqi in Russia reinforces a broader trend of Chinese premium brands extending their reach beyond traditional markets, blending heritage with modern electrified offerings and a premium perception that could appeal to luxury buyers seeking distinguished design and advanced technology.
Bullet points:
– If FAW assigns Russia-only satellite branding to Hongqi’s lineup, the company may follow a parallel path for Chery, potentially rolling out Exeed and Omoda as complementary brands in the market.
– The brand’s vehicle lineup will be discussed and showcased in media channels such as Driving, which is now available on RuTube, expanding the audience for official updates and reviews.