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Chinese President Xi Jinping uses the Hongqi L5 at public events. It has been reserved for only a select few world leaders.
Hongqi L5 is not available to the general public. (Photo: Hongqi)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to China after seven years to attend the SCO Summit in Tianjin. On arrival, he was chauffeured in the Hongqi L5, a luxury car closely tied to Chinese leadership and frequently used by President Xi Jinping. Translating to “Red Flag” in Mandarin, the Hongqi brand is often called “China’s Rolls Royce.”
While it has a long legacy, select models like the L5 are not available to the general public, being reserved exclusively for top officials and visiting dignitaries. In this article, we take a closer look at its features, price, and advanced security systems.
Hongqi’s Legacy And Price
Hongqi was first introduced in 1958, when China’s state-owned First Automotive Works (FAW) developed it as the official vehicle for Communist Party leaders. For decades, the brand’s cars remained exclusive to top officials and heads of state, rarely accessible to ordinary citizens. In the 1980s, however, Hongqi’s prestige declined with the influx of foreign luxury brands into China. The marque later regained prominence under Xi Jinping’s leadership, re-emerging as a symbol of national pride. Today, the Hongqi L5 stands as a custom-built masterpiece and one of China’s most expensive cars, priced at around 5 million yuan (approximately Rs 7 crore).
According to the company’s website, Hongqi offers four product series: L, S, H and Q. The L series represents the supreme luxury line used by state leaders. The S series offers coupes, designed for performance and style. The H series is positioned as the mainstream car, and the Q series is dedicated to commercial travel vehicles.
The Chinese government has provided Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the country’s symbolic “Made in China” Hongqi car for his 2-day stay in Tianjin for the SCO Summit.This “Made in China” Hongqi car is President Xi Jinping’s preferred mode of transport during official… pic.twitter.com/G5HmN1MYsk
— GITA FOR CA (@vsvadivelfca) August 31, 2025
Features And Security
The Hongqi L5 limousine measures nearly 5.5 metres in length and weighs around 3,100 kilograms. It is powered by either a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 or a 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine, paired with an advanced suspension system to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. For security, the vehicle comes equipped with run-flat tyres, heavy armour plating, bulletproof glass, and modern communication systems.
Inside, the cabin blends luxury with tradition as it has soft leather seating and classic Chinese motifs are paired with a digital driver interface. Externally, it carries a vintage aesthetic, featuring signature round headlights and a bold chrome grille that give it a stately, distinctive presence.
Over the years, the Hongqi has been reserved for only a select few world leaders, such as Richard Nixon and Francois Hollande. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now joined this limited list.
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
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