President Xi Jinping’s arrival in Malaysia for his official state visit has not only attracted political and media attention, but also made waves among car enthusiasts. The spotlight fell on his rarely-seen state limousine — the Hongqi N701 — which made its first-ever appearance on Malaysian roads, cruising through Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya under heavy escort.
Nicknamed “The Chinese Beast,” the Hongqi N701 is one of the most exclusive and mysterious vehicles ever built by China. Developed by Hongqi, a luxury division under FAW Group, this limousine was designed exclusively for the President of China. Unlike any ordinary car, the N701 is built with military-grade armor, bulletproof glass, and is reportedly equipped with an independent oxygen filtration system to protect its passenger from chemical threats. While exact technical specifications remain classified, the vehicle’s sheer presence and design speak volumes about the level of engineering and prestige it carries.
The sleek, black sedan caused quite a stir as it appeared along key routes in the city, escorted by Malaysian police and Chinese security personnel. Its imposing front grille, accented with chrome and a bold red emblem, drew comparisons to the Rolls-Royce Phantom — though with a distinctly Chinese identity and symbolism. Netizens were quick to capture videos and photos of the motorcade, many expressing fascination at the vehicle’s bold appearance and significance.
This marks the first time the Hongqi N701 has ever been seen in Malaysia, and its presence reflects the deepening ties between the two nations. Xi Jinping’s state visit comes at a time of strengthening Malaysia-China relations, with both countries discussing cooperation in infrastructure, technology, and energy sectors. The arrival of the N701 adds an iconic visual to this diplomatic engagement, showcasing China’s advancements not just in politics and economy, but also in luxury automotive design.
Interestingly, this event comes just days after Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, was reported to have received the Hongqi L5 — another highly exclusive model from the same brand. The King is now the first private owner of the L5 outside of China, and with President Xi’s N701 now making its rounds in Kuala Lumpur, both of Hongqi’s top-tier models have now graced Malaysian soil within the same month.
The Hongqi N701's rare appearance here is more than just a transportation detail — it’s a symbol of modern China’s confidence, capability, and commitment to its international partnerships.
China