The Hongqi E-HS9 is an upcoming luxury electric SUV for Australia, expected to arrive with a large 120kWh battery, six seats and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 411kW. The final local specification specifications are to be confirmed.
The Volvo EX90 offers seven seats, two powertrain options and a more established premium reputation, with Australian prices starting at $106,990. While the Volvo is the more established all-round choice, the Hongqi could appeal to buyers wanting a more distinctive, luxury-focused cabin.
The Volvo EX90 comes in two distinct variants for 2027, starting with the Plus Single Motor rear drive vehicle and going up to the Ultra Twin Motor Performance all-wheel drive version. This gives buyers the choice between a more affordable entry point and a seriously powerful flagship.
How does the Hongqi E-HS9 stand up against the Volvo EX90? Let’s compare prices, performance, range, charging, comfort and practicality for the Hongqi E-HS9 and both Volvo EX90 variants.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90 – Price and variants
The Hongqi E-HS9 is expected to enter the country with a six-seat, all-wheel-drive configuration, with an indicative starting price of under $150,000 plus on-road costs. The final price has not yet been verified.
The Volvo EX90 has two variants for 2027. The range starts with the Plus Single Motor at $106,990 plus on-road costs. The flagship Ultra Twin Motor Performance starts at $134,990.
| Specification | Hongqi E-HS9 | Volvo EX90 Plus | Volvo EX90 Ultra Performance |
| Price | Below $150,000 | $106,990 | $134,990 |
| Seating capacity | 6 | 7 | 7 |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD | AWD |
| Power | 411kW | 245kW | 500kW |
| Torque | 606Nm | 480Nm | 870Nm |
| Battery | 120kWh | 92kWh | 106kWh |
| WLTP range | 548km | 479km | 521km |
| 0-100km/h | 5.5 seconds | 6.8 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
Prices are before on-road costs. Hongqi pricing is indicative, while Volvo figures are for the 2027 Australian range.
The 515km figure refers to the international Long Range version of the Hongqi E-HS9. Australian range figures have not been confirmed.
The E-HS9 sits in the middle in terms of price expectations. However, the Australian pricing and on-road costs will make it more competitive.
Interestingly, the Volvo EX90 Plus is much more affordable. The Ultra Twin Motor Performance, meanwhile, offers more power than the Hongqi.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90 – Design and dimensions
The Hongqi E-HS9 and Volvo EX90 have very different designs.
The E-HS9 is the most imposing of the two vehicles. Its large exterior dimensions are 5209mm long, 2010mm wide and 3110mm wheelbase. The chunky front grille, split lighting, unique bonnet features and full width rear lights give it a commanding presence on the road.
It has a more conventional feel to the luxury design and was created by former Rolls-Royce design leader Giles Taylor.
The Volvo EX90 has a more sleek look. It is 1964 mm wide and 5037 mm long. It has a more restrained front end, Thor’s Hammer lighting and simple rear design.
It doesn’t have an ostentatious design and is more evolutionary. If you’re looking for a more discreet vehicle with Scandinavian styling then this is a good option. Whilst the Hongqi is larger in size it doesn’t mean it will offer more cabin space. However, exterior dimensions alone don’t determine how much usable room passengers get, particularly in the third row.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90 – Performance and range
The Hongqi E-HS9 has a twin motor powertrain providing 411 kW and 606Nm of power. All four wheels are powered and it has a claimed 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds. It has a top speed of 200km/h.
The Volvo EX90 Plus has a single rear mounted electric motor. It has less power with only 245kW and 480Nm of torque. It will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.8 seconds.
The performance flagship of the range offers 500 kW and 870Nm of power. It has an all-wheel drive system and can hit 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds, meaning it’s much quicker than the Hongqi and Plus model.
The E-HS9 has a claimed range of 548km. The Plus model has a range of up to 479km. The Ultra Twin Motor Performance has a range of up to 521km.
Hongqi has the longest range. However, the EX90 Performance has a fairly close range despite the smaller battery. These are lab tested results. Actual range will vary depending on how fast you drive, conditions, temperature and configuration.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90 – Battery and charging
Just because a vehicle has a large battery doesn’t mean it will charge quickly. The Hongqi E-HS9 is a great example of this.
It has a 120kWh CATL NMC battery. It can charge at 140kW with DC fast charging. You also get 11kW three-phase AC charging. It has Type 2 and CCS2 charging ports.
Whilst the battery provides a decent range, the 140kW DC charging is fairly low for a vehicle of this price and size. Those who regularly do long distance drives may struggle with the charging times.
The Volvo EX90 comes out on top with its high voltage 800V electrical system.
The Plus Single Motor variant has a 92kWh battery. The Ultra Twin Motor Performance has a larger 106kWh battery. Both have DC fast charging capabilities. Volvo claims it can charge from 10-80% in around 24 minutes with the right high power charging.
Volvo EX90 also has battery preheating. This means when you navigate to a compatible charging station it will prepare the battery for charging.
The Volvo would be a good choice for Australians who regularly drive between cities due to its higher charging capabilities. However, it will depend on what charging you have.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90 – Interior, comfort and practicality
Both vehicles aim to provide a premium cabin.
The Hongqi E-HS9 looks great. It has lots of leather throughout, real wood trim, heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, 4-zone climate control and a panoramic roof.
The E-HS9 has two separate 15.6 inch screens for the centre and front passenger. It also has a 16 speaker Bose sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also has two separate heated, ventilated captain seats in the second row. Providing a more personal experience.
However, the third row isn’t as impressive. There is limited knee room for adults if the second row is put into its rearmost position. The pre-production example didn’t have air vents in the third row. We’ll need to confirm what the Australian examples will have.
The Volvo EX90 has a minimalistic interior. It has a large centre infotainment screen, digital driver’s display, Google based software, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
It has a Scandinavian feel with lots of natural materials and simple features. Depending on the variant you’ll get features like a Bose premium sound system, head-up display, ventilated seats, front massage and electrochromic panoramic roof.
What the EX90 does have is an extra seat. It has seven seats compared to six. However, due to its large bonnet and shared platform with the XC90 it doesn’t have as much cabin space. It’s worth checking the second row space and for rear-facing child seats.
The Hongqi has captain seats in the second row for a more exclusive experience. The Volvo would be better for families as you have an extra seat.
Hongqi E-HS9 vs Volvo EX90- Safety and driver assist
Safety is a key factor to consider when buying an SUV over $100k.
The Hongqi E-HS9 has been awarded a 5 star rating from Euro NCAP in 2025. However, it doesn’t have an ANCAP rating currently. So don’t assume it has a high safety rating for Australian buyers.
It has adaptive cruise control with lane keeping, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, speed sign recognition, 360 camera and rear cross traffic alert.
Volvo is known for being safe in the car industry. The EX90 has lots of active and passive safety tech. It has lots of advanced sensors, driver assist and safety features to help identify potential hazards.
Both vehicles have lots of safety tech but the Volvo has a proven safety reputation. We’ll need to assess how safe the Hongqi is in Australia and what driver assist features it has.
Should you buy the Hongqi E-HS9 or Volvo EX90?
Both vehicles will appeal to different buyers.
The Hongqi E-HS9 has a lot going for it. It looks unique, has a large 120kWh battery and six seats. It also has lots of tech in the cabin. The front seats and second row captain seats provide a luxurious experience.
However, it doesn’t have a quick DC charging time, questionable third row and unconfirmed Australian pricing so it’s difficult to recommend without a proper road test.
The Volvo EX90 Plus is the cheaper option. It has seven seats, useful range and a premium family focussed cabin. If you’re looking for a large EV without the flagship performance then this is a good option.
The Volvo EX90 Ultra Twin Motor Performance is a more appealing option. With 500kW of power, 870Nm of torque and faster charge times it beats the Hongqi in these areas.
CARS24 Australia’s verdict
The Hongqi E-HS9 is an interesting new entrant into the luxury EV SUV market in Australia. However, a large battery and lots of tech won’t necessarily mean it’s a convincing purchase.
The Volvo EX90 is a better overall option. The Ultra Twin Motor Performance variant has seven seats, impressive performance, proven safety and better charging capabilities.
If you like the unique design, six seats and lavish cabin the E-HS9 would be a good option for you. However, the Volvo EX90 Plus is much more affordable. If you’re looking for a more complete package the Ultra Performance would be better.
Overall, the Volvo EX90 is the safer recommendation at this stage. However, the Hongqi E-HS9 could become a more compelling alternative if its final Australian pricing, equipment and range are competitive. A local road test will also be important in assessing its ride, third-row practicality and charging performance.
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