First Look: The Hongqi Guoya V8 hybrid is my new favorite saloon!

Hongqi has begun expanding its presence outside China, with right-hand-drive models appearing in several international markets. The Guoya, penned by British designer Giles Taylor, and often positioned by the media as the country’s answer to the Rolls-Royce Ghost, has not been confirmed for the UK or Europe.

However, given its positioning, we would not be surprised to see it shipped in limited numbers to overseas markets as a brand shaper.

Design

The Hongqi Guoya measures 5,353 mm in length, 1,998 mm in width and 1,511 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,260 mm.

Walking up to the car at the Hong Kong Auto Expo, we noticed that the saloon features a large chrome grille, vertically oriented LED headlamps and a retractable bonnet ornament. Chrome detailing extends across the exterior, while 20-inch alloy wheels are offered as standard.

Hongqi Guoya Hybrid sedan side

The profile follows a traditional three-box limousine layout with a long wheelbase and short overhangs. At the rear, the Guoya features vertical LED taillamps connected by a chrome trim element. Two-tone exterior paint finishes are also available.

Interior

The cabin is available in a four-seat configuration with two individual rear seats separated by a full-length centre console. The upholstery is Nappa leather, and both front and rear seats feature electric adjustment, while rear occupants also get heating, ventilation, massage, memory functions, and extendable leg rests.

Rear passengers have access to dedicated entertainment displays, individual climate controls and multiple convenience features aimed at long-distance travel. A panoramic sunroof is also available.

The dashboard incorporates a digital instrument cluster and a large central infotainment display. Other features include wireless phone charging, ambient lighting and a 32-speaker Hongqi Jiucheng audio system with Dolby Atmos support and a claimed output of 3,240 watts.

Hongqi Guoya Hybrid sedan rear legroom
The rear seats of the Guoya are soft and comfortable, with ample support and knee room even for a six-footer.

Specifications

Power comes from a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine paired with an electric motor as part of a hybrid powertrain. Combined system output is 430 kW (585 PS) and 800 Nm of torque.

The Guoya can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Air suspension and rear-wheel steering are fitted as standard.

Driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, night vision and a 360-degree camera system.

Pricing & Availability

If it’s ever introduced in the UK, it would likely command a high six-figure price. Based on pricing in China and estimates for the import market, it could cost between £165,000 and £355,000, although no official plans have been announced.