Chinese brand Hongqi, known for its luxury limousines used by state officials, has just launched the LS7, a premium ICE-powered SUV with a massive footprint and a luxurious cabin. The model was supposed to be unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show but since the event has been postponed, Hongqi revealed it online.
Starting with the sheer size of this
thing, the Hongqi LS7 measures 5,695 mm long, 2,095 mm wide, and 1,985 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,309 mm. Those figures make the 5,252 mm long Range Rover look
small in comparison. In fact, the Hongqi LS7 is longer than the BMW X7 and the
Mercedes-Maybach GLS, with only the long-wheelbase variants of American
full-size SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade ESV surpassing its footprint.
The design tries hard to look imposing
with a gigantic grille surrounded by chrome, full-LED split headlights
following the latest trend, and red accents as a nod to Hongqi’s name (red
flag) and origin. Other features include the retractable side steps, the
full-width LED taillights, and the traditional full-size SUV proportions with a
tall bonnet and a long rear overhang. Despite the effort, we have to admit that
overall the LS7 looks less modern than the fully electric Hongqi E-HS9 that
debuted in 2020.
Inside, the steering wheel is clearly
inspired by Rolls-Royce, but the highlight is the mahogany wood all over the
dashboard, center console, and doors. It is combined with gold accents and
leather upholstery for a luxurious atmosphere. In terms of technology, the SUV
comes with automatic climate control, dual screens on the dashboard, and
another set of screens for the rear passengers. The latter can enjoy heated and
ventilated captain chairs with massaging functions, while accessing the
infotainment and comfort features from buttons on the center tunnel.
The Chinese SUV might have the same name
as the popular GM engine but has nothing to do with it, other than the number
of cylinders. Under the bonnet lies a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 which produces
360 hp and 550 Nm of torque. This doesn’t sound
enough for a massive vehicle like the Hongqi LS7, which could explain the
limited top speed of 200 km/h.
The market launch of the Hongqi LS7 is
scheduled for the third quarter of 2022. Pricing will start from ¥ 1.5 million
which translates to more than US$ 235,000. At this price point, it is hard not to
look elsewhere for premium full-size SUVs, although it is still a bargain when you
compare it to something like a Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
