Hongqi has started accepting reservations for its HS3 model. The mid-size crossover SUV may be the luxury carmaker’s most affordable vehicle to date, CarNewsChina believes, even though the exact pricing info is pending in mid-July.
The HS3 debuted at this year’s Shanghai show. It was 4,655 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and 1,668 mm tall with 2,770 mm between the axles, making it 100 mm (4 inches) shorter than its closest sibling – the HS5. Once it reaches the international market, the model will compete in the same segment as the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Design-wise, the entry-level Hongqi sports a rather monumental-looking front grille, boomerang-shaped headlights and unusual c-pillars. Buyers can choose from multiple exterior finishes including two-tone ones and specify wheels up to 18 inches large. Inside, a 12.3-inch display is provided for the dashboard and a 12.6-inch one fills the role of the infotainment system.
In its most basic spec, the Hongqi HS3 utilizes a 1.5L turbo engine with 169 PS (167 hp / 124 kW) and 258 Nm (190 lb-ft) of torque. A seven-speed DCT lets it accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.9 seconds and max out at 195 km/h (121 mph).
The other option is a 2.0L turbo mated to an eight-speed AT and producing 251 PS (248 hp / 184 kW) along with 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. This version takes 7.2 seconds to launch and maxes out at 220 km/h (136 mph).