Hongqi has opened its pre-order books for the HQ9 minivan, which stretches the definition of ‘mini’ and starts at a cool 400,000 CNY (59,000 USD). Live sales will start in autumn.
The van has a single-space construction and runs on a simple FWD platform powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot rated at 252 PS (249 hp / 185 kW). The transmission is eight-speed automatic. A plug-in hybrid is expected to join the lineup later on.
At 5,222 mm (204 inches) long and 2,005 mm (78.3 inches) wide with 3,200 mm (125 inches) between the axles, the HQ9 is a giant in its class. One of its primary competitors, the Toyota Alphard, is noticeably smaller.
Exterior highlights include a massive front grille with vertical bars, chrome bits all around and 18-inch wheels. The interior accommodates seven people and has a pair of captain’s seats with plenty of comfort features in the second row. Even the base trim level already includes a panoramic sunroof, a digital dashboard, a large infotainment display, all-around cameras and adaptive cruise control.
