The E-HS9 is on sale in Norway, the Netherlands, and Denmark, where it serves as the brand’s halo product.
While Hongqi or its flagship SUV E-HS9, are not currently available in the UK, the Chinese brand showcased the right-hand-drive version at the 2026 International Automotive Supply Chain Expo (Hong Kong) in June 2026, signalling its ambitions for global expansion.
That, combined with the fact that Hongqi presented vehicles at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, is an indication that the E-HS9 could eventually emerge in the British market.
Here’s what we found after spending time with the RHD-spec E-HS9.
Design
The Hongqi E-HS9 adopts a traditional luxury SUV silhouette with upright proportions, a long bonnet and a tall greenhouse. The front end is dominated by the brand’s signature waterfall-style grille, flanked by vertically oriented LED lighting elements that create a distinctive appearance.
Along the sides, the E-HS9 features flush-fitting door handles, substantial wheel designs and a strong shoulder line that runs the length of the body. Chrome detailing is used sparingly around the window line and lower body sections.
At the rear, full-width LED tail lamps stretch across the tailgate, while the upright tailgate design prioritises passenger and luggage space. The overall design follows a more traditional luxury SUV approach rather than the coupe-inspired styling increasingly common in the segment.
Interior
The Thailand-specification (RHD model) E-HS9 adopts a 2+2+2 six-seat layout with individual second-row captain’s chairs. Other international markets also offer a seven-seat version.
The dashboard features an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster alongside two 15.6-inch touchscreens for the infotainment system and front passenger.
A separate climate-control display is positioned lower down on the centre console. Depending on the variant, rear passengers can also access dedicated comfort and entertainment controls.
Comfort-focused features available in international markets include electrically adjustable seats, premium upholstery materials, ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof. The E-HS9 is also offered with multiple connectivity functions, advanced climate control systems and premium audio options.
With its three-row layout, the E-HS9 is designed to accommodate larger families while still offering a premium environment for long-distance travel. The six-seat configuration in particular places greater emphasis on second-row passenger comfort.
Experience in the Hongqi E-HS9
I spent time in the right-hand-drive Hongqi E-HS9. Getting in was comfortable, helped by the wide-opening doors, though the doors themselves feel quite heavy.
The front seats are one of the biggest highlights. Shoulder support is very good, under-thigh support is very good, back support is excellent, and the soft neck pillows add a superb sense of comfort.
The under-thigh extenders make the seats even better for long journeys. With the seat set to my usual driving position, I had about 10 cm of headroom to the headliner, and the large dual-pane sunroof brought plenty of light into the cabin.
Visibility is good for such a large SUV. The bonnet is high and the rear pillars are thick, as expected, but the small quarter glass panels and large mirrors help. I also liked the consistent Hongqi red stripe detailing across the dashboard and centre console, which ties the interior back to the brand’s exterior design. The brown cabin finish is not my personal choice, but it should be easy to maintain.
Storage and charging are strong points. There is a door-card cubby for sunglasses or cards, a large centre box, adjustable cupholders, a hollowed-out lower console area for a bag, USB-C charging, two wireless phone chargers and additional power outlets. However, the centre box is not cooled or ventilated.
The main downside is the control layout. Nearly everything is operated through the huge screen, and apart from the AC vent adjustment, there are very few physical controls. The piano black finish on the centre stack and steering wheel will also attract fingerprints.
The second row is very comfortable, with at least 10 cm of knee room, good shoulder support, very good back support, comfortable side bolstering, B-pillar vents, USB ports, cubbies and a fold-out armrest with cupholders.
The pass-through to the third row is useful, but the third row itself is mainly for children or very short adults. Access is narrow, the floor is not fully flat, the seat bases are short, and adults will sit with their knees high.
Specifications
The Hongqi E-HS9 measures 5,209 mm in length, 2,010 mm in width and 1,713 mm in height, while the wheelbase measures 3,110 mm.
The Thailand-specification E-HS9 is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing a combined 362 kW and 606 Nm of torque. Energy is supplied by a 120 kWh ternary lithium battery, delivering a WLTC driving range of up to 548 km.
The E-HS9 accelerates from 0-62 mph in around 5.5 seconds, reaches a top speed of 200 km/h, and supports DC fast charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in approximately 48 minutes.
Pricing
Hongqi has not confirmed plans to launch here, but it feels like an official announcement is only a matter of time. If introduced in Britain, the E-HS9 would likely occupy the £70,000-£90,000 segment of the market. That would place it against established premium electric SUVs such as the Volvo EX90, BMW iX and Mercedes EQS SUV.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
