The latest addition to Hongqi’s range is the H9 limo, which is similar in size to the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. All photos: Victor Besa / The National
Leather seats are nicely sculpted
Hongqi is China’s oldest passenger car marque, having been founded in 1958
The virtual instrument cluster has a distinctly Mercedes S-Class look
There’s a control panel on the centre-rear armrest, allowing rear-seat dwellers to adjust the positioning of their seat
One may question the exterior aesthetics of the H9, as it comes across as a mishmash of Rolls-Royce, Lincoln, Maybach and BMW design elements
Hongqi’s designers have made liberal use of glossy piano-black trim on the dash and centre console
The real surprise is the composure and competence with which the H9 drives
Hongqi has recruited ex-Rolls-Royce design boss Giles Taylor to head up its styling department, so coming models are likely to be much better resolved aesthetically
