Why doesn't the Hongqi H9 use an AT transmission?

[LaSophia]

The Hongqi H9 performs quite well in terms of power, exterior design, and configuration. Below are some relevant details about the Hongqi H9: Transmission: The Hongqi H9 is equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission model DCT400, which is China's first mass-produced high-end longitudinal automatic transmission. Automatic transmission vehicles automatically select the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions, eliminating the need for manual shifting. Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions: P, R, N, D, S, and L. Versions: The Hongqi H9 comes in two two-tone versions and five single-tone versions. The two two-tone versions are Akakin Gentian Purple and Champagne Gold Amber Brown; the five single-tone versions are Legendary Black, Shifting Sand Gold, Glory Blue, Amber Brown, and Gentian Purple.

[DeMiranda]

I guess you're quite puzzled that the Hongqi H9 doesn't use an AT transmission. Actually, many luxury cars have switched to dual-clutch transmissions nowadays. Once you've driven one, you'll know that dual-clutch shifts are particularly crisp, with power coming on quickly when you step on the gas, and it's especially smooth when starting from a red light. The Hongqi H9 is positioned as a premium model, with a powerfully tuned engine, and pairing it with a dual-clutch transmission can maximize its acceleration advantage. Fuel efficiency is also a key factor, as dual-clutch transmissions have lower power loss, resulting in about 1 liter less fuel consumption on the highway compared to AT. Moreover, domestic car manufacturers have now matured in dual-clutch technology, with stability and smoothness comparable to AT. Considering that younger drivers prefer driving enjoyment, Hongqi's choice of a dual-clutch transmission keeps up with the trend—it's both exciting and practical to drive.

[StGideon]

I was also curious why the Hongqi H9 uses a dual-clutch transmission instead of an AT, but I understood after test driving it. This gearbox pairs perfectly with the 3.0T engine—barely any jerkiness in stop-and-go city traffic, and downshifts lightning-fast during hard acceleration. Hongqi's design team clearly prioritized user experience, as luxury car owners want both comfort and occasional thrills. The dual-clutch is nearly 30kg lighter than an AT, significantly improving handling agility through weight reduction. Even premium brands like the Audi A6 now use dual-clutch transmissions, so Hongqi is following a global trend. Plus, maintenance costs are lower—oil change intervals are longer than AT, making it much friendlier to owners' wallets.

[LeAna]

The choice of a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for the Hongqi H9 is primarily a technical strategy. DCTs offer high transmission efficiency, extracting more power from the engine, which is particularly advantageous in urban areas with frequent stops and starts. The compact size of the DCT also frees up additional space in the trunk. Cost control is another consideration, as DCTs require lower R&D investment, allowing savings to be allocated to areas like chassis tuning for better value. With the stringent China VI emission standards, the fuel-saving characteristics of DCTs help automakers meet compliance. Ultimately, it's about matching—Hongqi's wet DCT, refined over years of optimization, has long since overcome reliability concerns.