Hongqi has officially launched the G919, a full-size hardcore off-road SUV, with three trim levels priced at 349,800 to 429,800 yuan (about $49,300 to $60,600) as Chinese guide prices before taxes and incentives. The launch event on October 25 skipped the usual spec-heavy presentation in favour of three extreme real-world challenges filmed across China, according to EV media outlet 电动邦 (Dian Dong Bang).
Three extreme tests replace the spec sheet
The first test took place on a closed track in Zhuzhou, where a stock G919 towed a road train of nine Jiefang heavy trucks with a combined weight of 312.6 tonnes, a tow-to-weight ratio of nearly 1:100. The second challenge was staged at Bilutu Peak in the Badain Jaran Desert, a 294-metre dune with a 62% maximum gradient, where the G919 completed 100 consecutive climbs, reached the summit in 1 minute 40 seconds, and survived a destructive roll test down a 150-metre sand slope. The third test took the vehicle to 5,000 metres above sea level on the northern side of Mount Everest, where its driver assistance system faced unmarked roads, falling rocks and wildlife.
Behind the spectacle lies a powertrain that is unusual for the price bracket. The G919 uses a 2.0-litre turbo hybrid engine producing 155 kW (208 hp) and 340 Nm of torque, with a thermal efficiency of 48.83%. The system's combined output is 620 kW (831 hp), and the four electric motors deliver a total wheel-end torque of 18,500 Nm, with each wheel's torque and speed adjustable independently in milliseconds. The vehicle rides on an 800V silicon-carbide platform with a high-strength ladder frame, of which high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel accounts for over 90%, giving a torsional rigidity of 9,500 Nm per degree.
Four-motor capability at a mainstream price
The G919's positioning is notable for bringing four-motor torque vectoring, previously reserved for six-figure luxury off-roaders, into the 350,000 yuan price band. Its 62.9 kWh battery provides a CLTC electric range of 280 km (WLTP est. around 224-238 km; CLTC figures are generally 15-20% more optimistic than WLTP). The 80-litre tank accepts regular 92-octane petrol, and combined range is quoted at 1,350 km. Fast charging from 30% to 80% takes 12 minutes on the 800V architecture.
The cabin follows a luxury theme with a 17.3-inch centre screen, a rear ceiling-mounted display, an 18-speaker Dynaudio 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos system, a 7.3-litre compressor fridge, second-row seats reclining up to 131 degrees, and 41 storage compartments. Hongqi also introduced what it calls the industry's first lifetime protection plan for off-road vehicles, covering rescue services, group convoy support, helicopter evacuation and up to 150,000 yuan (about $21,100) per year in extreme rescue reimbursement.
The G919's launch narrative suggests a shift in how Chinese brands sell hardcore off-roaders: instead of comparing lockers and ground clearance, Hongqi is betting on torque vectoring, end-to-end driver assistance and a whole-vehicle electronic architecture, backed by stunts that can be verified on video. Whether that resets expectations for the segment remains to be seen, but the 349,800 yuan starting price makes the four-motor formula more accessible than ever in China.
