Der Glanz des Ostens: Hongqi Guoya – Chinas Antwort auf Rolls-Royce im Rampenlicht

The Hongqi Guoya (2024): A Chinese Take on Rolls-Royce

An abundance of chrome, stretching beyond five meters, and a red flag adorning the hood…

Have you heard of Hongqi? No? However, you might have caught a glimpse of this Chinese brand's state vehicle on TV. Originating from Changchun, the China FAW Group has been utilizing this brand since 1958, which translates to "Red Flag" in English.

In 1958, the CA72 was introduced as a luxury vehicle, available in both Pullman sedan and convertible models. Mass production commenced in 1959 and continued into the 1960s. The successor, the CA770, was introduced in 1965 and its production lasted until the 1980s. In 1984, prototypes CA750 and CA760 were developed, using the Dodge 600 as a foundation.

The foundational model for Hongqi's subsequent production vehicle was the Audi 100 C3, assembled by First Automotive Works (FAW) starting in 1986. By 1989, it was renamed as the CA7225 LH, featuring an extended wheelbase. In 1993, the lineup expanded to include the CA7221 sedan, the CA7221 L with an elongated wheelbase, and the CA1021 U3 pickup truck.

Photo Gallery: Hongqi Guoya (2024)

Progress continues to be made. The brand has, of course, become completely independent from Audi. In September 2021, the company began exporting the e-HS9 to Norway. Since March 2024, it has also been marketed in Germany. These are electric vehicles, but in China, the flagship model still features conventional combustion engines. As you can see in our photos, the Guoya attracted attention at the Paris Motor Show 2024.

It's not surprising that the impressive sedan boasts an abundance of chrome detailing. The radiator grille, in particular, appears to have more chrome than three Mercedes E-Classes combined. Speaking of Mercedes, the car's side profile takes some inspiration from the latest S-Class model. However, it also brings to mind the luxury of a Rolls-Royce.

CarNewsChina reports that the dimensions of the Guoya are designed with a specific purpose in mind. Previously known as the Hongqi L1, the name Guoya translates to 'nation' and 'elegance' – though opinions may vary on the latter. The grille is said to resemble a waterfall, and notably, when seen in person, one's attention is drawn to the red flag motif that extends across the hood.

The Hongqi Guoya is set for release in 202

Hongqi claims that the design of their taillights is inspired by the "Palace Lantern" shape, and the decorative strip's form is taken from the eaves of ancient Chinese palaces.

According to CarNewsChina, the dimensions of the Hongqi Guoya are quite expansive, with a length of 5,353 millimeters, a width of 1,998 millimeters, and a height of 1,511 millimeters, all sitting atop a wheelbase that stretches 3,260 millimeters. Buyers have the option to choose between a four or five-seater configuration, and the vehicle comes equipped with either 19-inch or 20-inch wheels. When observed from the side, the vehicle showcases a low ground clearance that complements its dual-tone white and red exterior and its stylish spoke wheels.

Evaluating High-End Limousines:

Two hybrid options are on offer: a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged petrol engine or a more powerful 4.0-liter V8 turbo, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0T engine boasts a top output of 290 kW (395 horsepower), while the 4.0T engine ramps up to 360 kW (490 horsepower). Each setup is linked to lithium battery packs, yet the precise capacity and driving range details have not been disclosed by Hongqi.

The same applies to the cost, however, CarNewsChina mentions that they are accepting worldwide reservations. Yet, from our perspective, it seems doubtful whether the Guoya will ever make its way to Germany.

Most Read

Most Recent Articles

LATEST ARTICLES

About This Article