Hongqi, the high-end marque of China FAW Group, launched its first multi-purpose vehicle on Wednesday.

The premium seven-seat model, called HQ9, is available in five variants. Its rivals include models from international carmakers including GM.

The HQ9 sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a 48-volt hybrid system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It generates a maximum output of 185 kW and a top torque of 380 Nm.

The model accelerates from zero to 100 km/hour in 9.5 seconds and its fuel consumption stands at 8.8 liters per 100 km.

The model measures 5,222 mm in length, 2,005 mm in width and 1,935 mm in height, with its wheelbase reaching 3,200 mm.

Statistics from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers show that MPV sales in August totaled 86,000 units, up 11.3 percent year-on-year, most of which were models from international brands.