Hongqi E-HS9 Family Buyer Guide: Full-Size Smart Electric SUV for the Whole Household

The E-HS9’s cabin is a sanctuary of quiet and luxury. With three rows of seating, all trimmed in quality materials, the interior feels spacious and airy thanks to the large glass roof. Noise insulation is exceptional – wind and road noise are barely perceptible, even at highway speeds. The air suspension and adaptive damping soak up bumps, making the ride plush and relaxing for occupants of all ages. For families with young children, the second-row captain’s chairs (available in six-seat layout) provide easy access to the third row and allow parents to tend to infants in car seats without excessive bending. The third row, while not as spacious as the middle, is adult-friendly for shorter trips, but best suited for children or teenagers on longer journeys.

The E-HS9 excels in sheer space. Front and second rows offer limousine-like legroom and headroom. The large boot swallows a full set of golf bags or multiple large suitcases with the third row up; with both rear rows folded, the load area is vast and flat, ideal for bulky items like furniture or sports gear. Clever storage includes a deep centre console, door pockets that hold bottles, and USB-C ports accessible to all rows. The high driving position gives a commanding view, but the car’s sheer size can make parking in tight city spots a challenge. For families with multiple children, the sliding second-row seats allow flexibility between passenger and cargo space. The powered tailgate and low load sill are appreciated when loading heavy shopping bags or double strollers.

In congested urban environments, the E-HS9 feels surprisingly manageable. The electric motor delivers instant, smooth acceleration from a standstill, making traffic-light merges effortless. The 360-degree camera system and parking sensors are crucial for maneuvering into tight school pickup lanes or supermarket parking bays. Regenerative braking can be adjusted to strong one-pedal drive, reducing brake wear and fatigue in stop-start traffic. However, its vast dimensions mean it occupies more space than typical family SUVs; parallel parking requires confidence or a generous spot. The high ground clearance is helpful for speed bumps and kerbs, but the long wheelbase means some ramps may need careful negotiation.

On long journeys, the E-HS9’s comfort credentials shine. The seats are wide, supportive, and offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions for front passengers – a true boon on multi-hour drives. The adaptive cruise control with lane centring is smooth and intuitive, reducing driver fatigue on monotonous highways. The electric range is sufficient for typical family day trips, but drivers should plan charging stops for longer distances, as the vehicle’s size and weight impact efficiency. The fast-charging capability means a break for snacks and restrooms can add a meaningful amount of range. The rear-seat entertainment screens (optional) keep older children occupied, and the tri-zone climate control ensures everyone sets their preferred temperature.

The E-HS9 is packed with tech that simplifies family life. A large touchscreen infotainment system controls navigation, media, and vehicle settings, while a secondary screen handles climate functions – reducing clutter. The voice assistant understands natural commands in English, so parents can keep eyes on the road while adjusting routes or music. Standard safety kit includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, which are especially useful when reversing out of driveways near playgrounds. The car also offers a remote parking assist to handle tight spots via smartphone. Over-the-air updates keep maps and features current. One quibble: the screen interface can be slow to wake after a cold start, and some menus require multiple taps – a minor frustration when in a hurry.

The Hongqi E-HS9 is a compelling choice for families who prioritise comfort, space, and a refined electric experience. It excels as a luxury highway cruiser and a spacious hauler for children and chores. Its size and charging requirements demand consideration: if your daily driving is mostly city with off-street parking and access to fast chargers, it’s a superb fit; if you frequently navigate narrow urban streets or lack dedicated charging at home, a smaller EV might be more practical. Rivals like the BMW iX or NIO ES8 offer similar ambition, but the E-HS9’s interior opulence and quietness set it apart for the family buyer who values serene travel above all. Ultimately, for large families seeking an electric SUV that coddles every occupant on every trip, the E-HS9 is a standout – provided its dimensions suit your lifestyle.