2026 Hongqi HS3 plug-in hybrid gains power and range

Hongqi has unveiled a new version of its HS3 SUV. It’s called “PHEV Plus” and packs more performance and range than its predecessor from the last fall (see video).

The 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine stays the same, while the electric motor goes from its original 190 PS (187 hp / 140 kW) to 228 PS (225 hp / 168 kW). The combined torque output reaches 565 Nm (417 lb-ft). In hybrid mode, the car goes from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.6 seconds.

Hongqi has yet to reveal the volume of the battery pack (previously 18.4 kWh), but it says the range went up from 1,100 to 1,400 kilometers (from 683.5 to 870 miles). At the same time, CLTC-rated all-electric range only went up by 2 kilometers to 117 km (72 miles). This likely means that the battery stayed the same and the hybrid range improved thanks to engine optimizations. The automaker says it now burns through 4.6 liters of gas per 100 kilometers (51.1 U.S. MPG) and tops up the battery from 30 to 80% in 19 minutes.

Customers can choose from a wider selection of interior trims for the 2026 Hongqi HS3 PHEV Plus. The infotainment system still resides on two displays sized 12.3 and 12.6 inches, receives over-the-air updates and supports voice commands.