Hongqi H7

What‘s it?
 Hongqi (Red Flag ) made its debut in 1958, which makes it China's oldest manufacturer. Originally intended to supply transport for the highest echelons of government, its cars were depending on an old Chrysler design and produced in limited numbers. After many years of confused direction, Hongqi is now being refocused both on its roots like a government car supplier and upon the private luxury sector. The H7 is that the first from the range to really make it to market and aims to succeed sales coming from the Audi A6L. Driven by Toyota Crown platform, the H7 has a selection of three engines. The 2. 5-litre and three. 0-litre V6s are Toyota units, the previous only available for government purchasers, and there‘s also a 2. 0-litre turbo engine from Hongqi's parent company, FAW. After two months of exclusively government-based sales, the H7 was launched to private buyers in May in 2012. On offer is luxury egalitarianism – the car is merely available in black, while both the dashboard and leather upholstery are light grey. What‘s it like? Externally, the front works better compared to the rear. Echoing the very first Hongqi, the grille resembles a Chinese fan.

Addititionally there is the distinctive raised red fin, symbolising the flag, upon the bonnet – as has always been carried by Hongqi models. Despite these unique design cues there‘s a hint of Audi A6 in regards to the look, possibly because of FAW's experience as Audi's joint venture partner in China. The rear end is boxy and lacks visual interest. Cabin materials aren‘t as much as snuff – for instance, the highest from the dashboard is easily scuffed. Equipment levels inside the front are reasonable and also the touchscreen infotainment product is mounted high for easy use. However, this car is much more in regards to the experience inside the rear cabin, where it boasts features usually only seen in high-end saloons such as the Bentley Flying Spur. Whereas the front seats only get heating, the rear pews additionally get cooling and also a massage function, all controlled via the massive central fold-down armrest. Along with the rear seats being electrically adjustable, the front passenger seat may also be moved by rear occupants and there‘s a fridge, too. Lumbar support inside the back is lacking, however. On an open road, the 2. 0 turbo lacks sufficient power for such a big car. While there‘s a sports mode to the six-speed automatic gearbox, there aren‘t any paddle shifters. This really is not a driver's car. Steering is well weighted however the largely straight test route prohibited an effective appraisal from the H7's handling.

Should I buy one? We liked the H7's equipment levels, spacious rear and also the design cues which speak of Hongqi's heritage. Unfortunately, the car is blighted by substandard interior quality, an undesirable drivetrain and also a driving experience that simply is not engaging enough. Undoubtedly the car is an effective effort, but is ultimately confused. Equipment levels inside the rear are high however the cheap materials and insufficient customisation let the side down. The driver and front passenger will also be neglected inside the package. Overall, the H7 finds itself well beaten from the Jaguar XF, Audi A6 and BMW 5-series. Mark AndrewsHongqi H7 2. 0T ExecutivePrice na ; 0-62mph Above 10s ; Top speed 137mph ; Economy 24mpg (est ) ; Co2 Euro V compliant ; Kerb weight 1800kg ; Engine 4cyls, 1995cc, turbocharged, petrol ; Power 201bhp ; Torque 192lb ft ; Gearbox 6-spd automatic Hongqi H7 first drive review