Beijing (Gasgoo)- On February 15, the entry-level luxury SUV HS3 from FAW Group's premium passenger vehicle brand, Hongqi, officially arrived in the Middle East, marking its market debut in this region. That evening, the Hongqi HS3 dazzled as it illuminated the 82-panel matrix screen in Riyadh's Boulevard City center, kickstarting an extraordinary pre-sale event.
Scheduled for its official market launch in the Middle East on February 28, the Hongqi HS3 represents a sophisticated and dynamic addition to Hongqi's lineup. Despite being categorized as a compact SUV, the HS3 boasts impressive dimensions, with a total length of 4,655mm and a width of 1,900mm. Its notable width accentuates its robust and dignified appearance. With a wheelbase stretching to 2,770mm, ample space is ensured for both passengers and cargo.
Inside, the HS3 continues Hongqi's latest family design language, featuring a perforated leather flat-bottom steering wheel reminiscent of the H6 model, adding a sporty touch. Sitting in the center is a vertically oriented large touchscreen for information display, complemented by a wireless charging pad for smartphones below, presenting a sleek and tech-savvy ambiance. Additionally, the touch panel in the passenger area allows intuitive access to multimedia controls, volume adjustment, air conditioning settings, and seat ventilation/heating functions.
In terms of powertrain options, the HS3 offers 1.5T (35TD) and 2.0T (45TD) variants, each equipped with a corresponding engine. The 1.5T engine delivers a maximum power of 124kW and peak torque of 258N·m, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the 2.0T engine produces a maximum power of 185kW and peak torque of 380N·m, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
As a pivotal part of Hongqi's international strategy, the Middle East remains a crucial region for overseas expansion. To better integrate into the Middle Eastern market and connect with local users, Hongqi has conducted a series of vibrant marketing activities. These include the mesmerizing display on the Boulevard City matrix screen and the simultaneous appearance of flagship models E-HS9 and H9 at the prestigious Ball of Arabia event hosted by top fashion media outlet VOGUE. These efforts effectively localize and convey the narrative of Hongqi as China's premier luxury automotive brand, providing Middle Eastern users with a more intuitive, in-depth, and comprehensive understanding of Hongqi automobiles.
