China's Hongqi unveils 831-horsepower luxury off-roader to rival Mercedes G-Class

Chinese luxury automaker Hongqi has unveiled the G919, a high-performance off-road vehicle aimed at competing with established models such as the Mercedes-AMG G63 and the Land Rover Defender.

The G919 is Hongqi's first off-roader powered by a four-motor extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) system and is being described as one of the company's most technologically advanced production vehicles.

According to industry reports, the vehicle combines four electric motors with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing a total output of 620 kilowatts, equivalent to 831 horsepower, and 1,320 Newton metres of torque.

The power figure exceeds that of the Mercedes-AMG G63, which generates 577 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

Like other extended-range electric vehicles, the G919 is designed to operate primarily on electric power, while the petrol engine functions mainly as a generator to recharge the battery and extend driving range.

The vehicle is reported to offer an all-electric range of 280 kilometres under China's CLTC testing standard and a total driving range of up to 1,350 kilometres.

Hongqi has also equipped the SUV with traditional off-road features, including a body-on-frame chassis, three locking differentials and torque-vectoring technology aimed at improving performance on difficult terrain.

The G919 has been developed by FAW Group, one of China's largest state-owned automobile manufacturers, as part of efforts to expand Hongqi's presence in the premium vehicle segment.

Analysts say the launch reflects growing competition from Chinese automakers in the global luxury and electric vehicle markets, where manufacturers are increasingly introducing advanced technologies and high-performance models to challenge established international brands.

The G919 is expected to enter the Chinese market later this year, with industry observers watching closely to see whether it can gain traction in the increasingly competitive luxury off-road vehicle segment.