The new Hongqi L5 was premiered at the Shanghai Auto Show. It is the most luxurious and expensive Chinese car that looks like a presidential limousine.

The first generation Hongqi L5 was released at the same event ten years ago and priced at CN¥5 million Renminbi (US$800,000). It was used by the former General Secretary of the Communist Party (paramount leader), the current President of China, Xi Jinping.

The car does not differ much from its predecessor, but it still brings several improvements, such as a chrome radiator grille, a redesigned front bumper with new lights, a black lower part of the radiator grille with a central chrome element, an upright front fascia, elongated rear side windows, chrome details around the side windows and additional chrome details on door handles and rims. The company offers the car with a blue and white body.

Inside, in front of the driver is a two-spoke steering wheel, while there are three massive screens on the dashboard. Hongqi decided not to put all the functions in the screen, keeping a few buttons located on the dashboard and along the center console.

When it comes to the powertrain, there isn’t enough information, at least for now. The first generation was offered with two engine types: a 4.0-liter V8 engine with 381 hp (280 kW), paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all wheels, and a 6.0-liter V12 engine paired with a 6-speed TB -68 automatic transmission.

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Source: Hongqi