Hongqi, the crown jewel of the Chinese automotive industry, is officially making its way to Malaysian shores. Here are 7 facts about the ultra-luxury brand that has everyone from state leaders to royalty talking.
1. Our King is the FIRST private owner in the world-full_normal.webp)
Talk about a royal endorsement! His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, made global headlines in April 2024 when he became the first person in the world to privately own the second-generation Hongqi L5.
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The car was presented to His Majesty by the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, marking a new chapter in both luxury car history and bilateral ties.
2. It’s known as the "Rolls-Royce of China"Hongqi (pronounced Hong-Chee) literally translates to "Red Flag." Established in 1958, it is China’s oldest and most prestigious passenger car brand. For decades, it was reserved exclusively for high-ranking government officials and visiting foreign dignitaries. If you see a Hongqi on the road, you know there’s someone very important inside.
The wait won't be long! The Quill Group of Companies has officially signed an MoU with FAW Group to be the exclusive importer and distributor for Hongqi in Malaysia. Mark your calendars, because the official launch is slated for mid-2026.
4. They aren't just importing, they’re BUILDING it here
This is huge for the local industry. The partnership includes plans for Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assembly right here in Malaysia. This means the cars will be locally assembled, which usually leads to more competitive pricing and better availability of parts and service for Malaysian buyers.
While the L5 remains the ultimate trophy for VVIPs, the Hongqi E-HS9 is the flagship electric SUV set to be the real 'head-turner' on Malaysian roads. It sports an imposing 'waterfall' grille and signature 'flying wing' LED lights that make it look like something out of a futuristic movie.
Under the hood, it’s a dual-motor beast, the top-spec model packs a massive 120kWh battery with a range of up to 548km (WLTP) on a single charge. With its plush leather interior and high-tech cabin, it’s basically a silent, electric palace on wheels.
6. It’s the official car of President Xi Jinping
When Chinese President Xi Jinping travels for state visits, he doesn't just take any car, he takes his custom Hongqi. The brand is a symbol of national pride and Chinese engineering excellence, designed to go toe-to-toe with the best luxury brands from Europe.
7. Designed by a former Rolls-Royce designer
If you think the newer Hongqi models look a bit like a Rolls-Royce, you’re not imagining things. Hongqi’s current design language was spearheaded by Giles Taylor, the former Design Director for Rolls-Royce. He’s the man responsible for the iconic Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and he brought that same "majestic" energy to Hongqi’s latest lineup.
With local assembly plans and a royal seal of approval, Hongqi is set to shake up the luxury market currently dominated by German and British brands.
Read: Agong Becomes World’s First Overseas Ruler To Take Delivery Of A Hongqi L5 - China’s “Rolls-Royce”
Read: Beast from the East: China’s Hongqi N701 Rolls Into Malaysia
Read: Hongqi HS6 PHEV Breaks Guinness Records in Extreme Cold