Hongqi HS3 2025 1.5T Zhiwei Edition Vehicle Profile: Best Value Compact SUV with 2770mm Wheelbase

1. Verdict: Three Highlights and Three Caveats

Highlights

• Hongqi brand presence with class-leading dimensions. The Hongqi HS3 2025 1.5T Zhiwei Edition measures 4655×1900×1668mm with a 2770mm wheelbase, placing it at the larger end of the compact SUV segment. With a body width approaching 1.9 meters, its lateral passenger space and road presence exceed expectations for the price.
• Generous equipment with solid intelligent hardware. The 1.5T Zhiwei Edition comes standard with a 12.6-inch central touchscreen, LED headlights, an openable panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree surround-view camera, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering control. Its L2-level driver assistance is comparatively complete at this price point.
• Smooth powertrain tuning, family-friendly for daily driving. The 1.5T engine produces a maximum power of 124kW (169Ps) and peak torque of 258N·m, paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. With an official 0-100km/h time of 9.9 seconds, power delivery is linear, meeting the needs of urban commuting and highway overtaking.

Caveats

• 1.5T power reserve is on the conservative side. Buyers with high power demands may find the 1.5T slightly reserved when fully loaded on inclines or during high-speed re-acceleration. Those who frequently drive on highways and want a strong push should accept its gentle power character.
• The brake pedal feel takes time to get used to. Some owners report that the initial brake travel feels soft and that deeper pedal input causes noticeable nose dive. The auto start-stop logic also occasionally feels out of step.
• Minor quality-control imperfections. Some owners mention occasional rattles from the center armrest console and interior trim, as well as individual delivery assembly issues such as unfastened battery terminals. Careful inspection at handover is recommended.

2. Model Overview

The Hongqi HS3 is a compact SUV from China FAW's Hongqi brand, aimed at young families and serving as an important product for the brand's expansion into the mainstream market. As Hongqi's entry-level SUV, the HS3 inherits the brand's signature vertical-slat grille and through-body flag emblem design language, while adding more youthful split headlights and two-tone body elements, balancing brand recognition with modern aesthetics.

In terms of positioning, the HS3 targets budget-conscious family users who value brand and equipment, competing primarily against joint-venture compact SUVs and peer products from domestic brands. The 2025 1.5T Zhiwei Edition is the volume-selling version of the lineup, achieving a good balance between price and equipment.

With dimensions of 4655×1900×1668mm and a 2770mm wheelbase, it holds a clear space advantage among vehicles at the same price, with rear legroom and trunk volume capable of meeting the daily needs of a family of three as well as road trips.

You can fully explore the vehicle's exterior and interior design through the following video:

• Hongqi HS3 Static Experience and Walkthrough

3. Basic Specifications

• Model: Hongqi HS3 2025 1.5T Zhiwei Edition
• Power type: Gasoline
• Engine: 1.5T turbocharged L4, 1498mL displacement
• Maximum power: 124kW (169Ps)
• Maximum torque: 258N·m
• Transmission: 7-speed wet dual-clutch (DCT)
• Fuel consumption (WLTC): 6.8L/100km
• Dimensions: 4655×1900×1668mm
• Wheelbase: 2770mm
• Seats: 5
• Top speed: 195km/h
• Official 0-100km/h acceleration: 9.9s

Maintenance Costs and Manufacturer Service

• Vehicle warranty: 4 years or 100,000km
• Friendly service intervals; the 1.5T powertrain is a mature design, and routine maintenance costs sit at a mid-level for the segment.
• Hongqi maintains a comprehensive authorized service network in China with stable parts supply.

Incentive Policies

As the Hongqi HS3 is a gasoline vehicle, most markets' EV-specific incentives do not apply. Tax and incentive policies for combustion vehicles versus new-energy vehicles vary significantly by country, so buyers should check the specific rules of their target market. Below is a reference overview of major markets (Source: IEA Global EV Policy Explorer):

4. Ownership Costs and Service

Warranty policy: Hongqi offers the HS3 a 4-year or 100,000km vehicle warranty, a mainstream-to-above level among domestic brands. In some regions, first owners may also enjoy longer powertrain-related service terms, subject to local dealer conditions.

Maintenance costs: The 1.5T + 7DCT combination is widely installed within the Hongqi lineup and technically mature. Routine minor service, including oil and oil filter replacement, costs are controllable, and major service intervals are long, making overall maintenance costs friendly to family users.

Real ownership cost analysis: Assuming 15,000km of annual driving and a WLTC combined fuel consumption of 6.8L/100km, annual fuel use is approximately 1020L. Converted at global average gasoline prices, fuel is the main component of ownership cost. Insurance, maintenance, parking, and depreciation make up the rest. Compared with pure EVs, a combustion vehicle has higher energy costs but no dependence on charging infrastructure, offering better refueling convenience.

Charging cost note: The Hongqi HS3 1.5T is a gasoline vehicle and does not involve charging costs. For reference, the global average residential electricity price published by Global Petrol Prices is approximately 0.15–0.16 USD/kWh; a pure EV consuming about 15kWh per 100km would have a far lower energy cost per 100km than a combustion vehicle. For users without fixed charging access, combustion power remains the worry-free choice.

5. Competitor Comparison

In the compact SUV bracket around 100,000 RMB, the Hongqi HS3 1.5T Zhiwei Edition faces a group of rivals each with its own emphasis: the Tharu XR focuses on brand and resale value, the Corolla Cross focuses on fuel economy and peace of mind, and the Xingyue L Changfeng Qingyun Edition emphasizes class-leading size and equipment. Buyers in this bracket often weigh "prestige" against "practicality," so the comparison should not be about price alone but about space, power, equipment, and long-term cost.

Comparison Across Four Dimensions

• Size: The Hongqi HS3 and Xingyue L are clearly larger than the Tharu XR and Corolla Cross. The HS3's 2770mm wheelbase is second only to the Xingyue L's 2845mm, giving a clear advantage in longitudinal cabin space.
• Power: The Hongqi HS3 1.5T delivers 124kW/258N·m, leading on torque among the four mainstream powerplants. The Xingyue L's 2.0T leads overall with 160kW/325N·m, but with higher displacement and fuel consumption.
• Equipment: The Hongqi HS3 1.5T Zhiwei Edition is competitive on L2 driver assistance, panoramic sunroof, and 360-degree camera, offering strong value.
• Cost: The Corolla Cross wins on lower fuel consumption and joint-venture reputation, while the Hongqi HS3 offers a larger car and more equipment at the same price.

Below is the complete specification and equipment comparison of the four models:

Summary: Overall, the Hongqi HS3 1.5T Zhiwei Edition offers a noticeably "above-class" feel in the 100,000 RMB compact SUV segment, thanks to its larger body, longer wheelbase, and richer comfort and driver-assistance equipment. It is a choice that balances brand recognition with practical equipment. The Tharu XR wins on joint-venture reputation and maturity, the Corolla Cross on fuel economy and ease of ownership, and the Xingyue L Changfeng Qingyun on a larger body and stronger power for more demanding buyers. If your budget is limited but you value space and equipment, the Hongqi HS3 is the most balanced value in this group; if you prioritize extreme fuel economy or stronger power, the Corolla Cross and Xingyue L are the respective answers.

6. Expert Test Drive

Pros

1. Solid chassis tuning with front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension, providing good bump absorption and high ride comfort over rough roads.
2. Generous interior materials with extensive soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and a dual-screen design, delivering above-average visual quality and ease of use for the price.
3. Outstanding space, with a 4655mm body and 2770mm wheelbase giving roomy front and rear seating and a trunk that meets family and road-trip needs.

To Improve

1. The 1.5T power reserve is modest when fully loaded or re-accelerating at highway speeds, giving it a gentle character.
2. The initial brake pedal feel is soft with noticeable nose dive under deeper input, and the auto start-stop logic is occasionally out of step.
3. Some vehicles exhibit interior rattles, and delivery assembly details warrant attention.

Test Scenarios

1. Urban commuting: In daily city driving, power response is smooth and low-speed following is easy, with WLTC combined fuel consumption of about 6.8L/100km; real-world city fuel consumption generally fluctuates around 8L/100km (Source: owner-measured feedback from automotive information platforms).
2. Highway cruising: At highway speeds the body is stable, and wind and tire noise are controlled at a mid-level for the segment, without noticeably disturbing in-cabin conversation; sound-insulating materials are arranged in areas including the hood liner, doors, and roof (Source: professional media test drives).

7. Real Owner Reviews

Positive Feedback

Chassis and Handling

Owners generally praise the HS3's chassis quality and driving stability, considering it excellent for the price.

The suspension is well tuned; over rough roads there is no obvious jolt or sway, and ride comfort is very high. Handling is precise, the steering points clearly, the chassis is stable, the body stays composed through corners, and driving confidence is high.

Space

Space is one of the dimensions owners are most satisfied with, with both front and rear seating and the trunk receiving extensive praise.

Three people in the rear are not cramped, and the trunk capacity meets daily and road-trip needs, with no pressure to fit several suitcases.

Interior and Equipment

Interior materials and equipment richness are recognized by owners, with the dual screens and seat comfort repeatedly mentioned.

The seats are leather-wrapped, and the front row is equipped with seat heating. The center console is stylish and grand, using a floating design and a dual-screen layout that is more convenient and simple to operate.

Power

Most owners consider the 1.5T adequate for daily use, with linear and smooth power delivery.

Power is ample; starting and overtaking are easy, and acceleration is linear and smooth.

Negative Feedback

Brakes and Auto Start-Stop

Brake feel and auto start-stop logic are among the more frequently reported shortcomings.

The brakes are soft; pressing down suddenly gives a clear nose dive. Also, the auto start-stop logic is a bit chaotic.

Interior Rattles and Assembly Details

Some owners encounter interior rattles and delivery assembly issues; though not affecting use, they affect the experience.

The only drawback is rattling; when the center armrest console opens there is a rattle, a clacking sound, but the impact is minor and music covers it.

Power Reserve

Owners with higher power demands find the 1.5T weak and suggest considering a stronger version.

The 1.5 power is still a bit lacking; if you have high power demands, go for the 2.0. Still, it has some strength—in sport mode, power comes on as soon as you press the throttle.

8. References

• Global Petrol Prices (2025). World Average Electricity Prices, USD / kWh. Retrieved from https://www.globalpetrolprices.com/electricity_prices/
• IEA. Global EV Policy Explorer. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/data-and-statistics/data-tools/global-ev-policy-explorer
• Hongqi Official Website. Hongqi HS3 Specifications and Configuration. Retrieved from https://www.hongqi-auto.com/
• User-provided vehicle configuration comparison screenshots.