Bucket Seat: Haval H6 2.0L Turbo

The first Chinese brand that begun the strong surge into the local market has been Haval, falling under the Great Wall Motors family, their local footprint was already well established the country. While their previous models like the H1 and H2 never hit the heights as their current models, one things for sure, people know and love the name plate now. The sales of the Jolion and H6 range speaks volumes for how the market has taken to them. Normally one would put it down to brand strategy but with the increase in pricing of the European models and the other Asian models coming in at affordable pricing but not giving the consumer great value in the product, Haval ushered in the Chinese infiltration which caused a massive shake up in the market. The product offerings had everything from tech and quality at prices that left many of their competitors with gaping mouths. One particular model that I quite liked was the Haval H6, it was a classy looking mid-sized SUV that competed against the likes of the Mazd CX-5, BMQ X3, Audi Q5 and Merc GLC but was at a fraction of their price. The one downside to the H6 was the fuel economy, which was a common issue in most of the cars from China. The one good thing is that they take feedback seriously so when I got the opportunity to test the the 2025 Haval H6 2.0T, I was waiting to see how they addressed this issue, here's my take on it.   

DESIGN

The refreshed H6 takes a more mature, restrained styling direction compared with earlier, bolder Haval designs. The front end is cleaner, with revised LED headlamps and a retouched grille that gives it a less “busy” look; the profile stays classically SUV with a neat waistline and available 18-inch wheel designs. The rear design is more bulky with a higher waistline. The lights are now a split LED and no long has the solid light bar like the previous model which is a pity as I quite liked that look, while this still looks good I feel it does get diluted especially in the white I had my test car in. Overall, the car does look more pronounced and mature in its stance, I do like the grille as it follows the same design as the newer Hyundai's that makes it seem there are individual pieces to the grille. The interior of the H6 is a carbon copy of their other SUV's I've drive this year, being the Tank 300 and the H7, would be interesting to see dimensions on these items as it could be a one size fits all for their cars. 

PERFORMANCE

the Haval H6 comes powered with a  2.0-litre turbocharged petrol in the 2025 that produces 170 kW and 380 Nm .That’s a noticeable bump over older H6 variants and gives the car genuinely usable mid-range shove for overtaking and highway cruising. The 2.0T is more responsive and better calibrated than earlier H6s turbo lag has been reduced and throttle response feels livelier but how does that translate to the fuel usage?. Haval have quoted combined figures for the 2WD 2.0T are in the mid-7 L/100 km range, I personally was averaging around 9.8L per 100km with my mixed urban driving. Which is high but not bad considering the size of the car and the type of driving I was doing. It comes down to the transmission, the H6 comes with a DCT automatic gearbox which is much better suited to our climate than the previous CVT gearbox. The gearbox is generally well matched to the engine, trading refinement for predictable shifts rather than sporty engagement, the car is not a hot-hatch by any means, but it delivers confident acceleration for daily driving and highway overtake.

COMFORT

Haval have always had impressive cabin design with minimalist looks and loads of tech, but quality of materials used in previous models were questionable and didn't have a great feel to them. In this latest model this has been addressed with improved sound-proofing keeps road and wind noise low for the class, making highway cruising pleasant. Seats are supportive with available electric adjustment and memory for the driver on higher trims; rear seats are roomy and family-friendly. Ride quality is tuned towards comfort rather than sport it absorbs rougher South African surfaces tolerably well but feels a touch heavy through quick direction changes. : the facelifted H6’s cabin is better appointed than before  soft touch surfaces, chrome/electroplated trim details and decent panel fitment lift perceived quality compared with earlier Chinese entrants in this segment. That said, some rivals still feel a notch more premium in tactile finish. 

TECHNOLOGY

The focal point in the cabin as with all Haval's is the large central touchscreen, the H6 some fitted with a 14.6-inch multi-point touchscreen, paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. There are dual USB C charging ports for both driver and front passenger, these are located below the floating center console at the additional parcel shelf. The digital cluster is minimal as well, giving key driving stats but not overbearing with too much information. Other driver aids can also be present here, convenience features depends on the trim level selected, these include electric seats, panoramic sunroof, automatic tailgate and 360-camera view. The software experience has improved and reviewers praise the big screen’s responsiveness and clarity; still, smartphone projection and a well-implemented UI matter more than screen size, so test the local spec’s software polish at a dealer. 

VERDICT

Overall, for South African buyers looking for value, equipment and warranty, the H6 is a compelling alternative to more expensive mainstream rivals.The total package offering even in this entry level luxury model outweighs what you get in most German offerings. The drive feel with the DCT gearbox would take some time to get used to but in terms of an affordable premium mid-sized SUV, the H6 still remains one of the better Chinese models on the market to consider. The HEV model is probably the best one in my opinion as it levels out the fuel usage with the electric motor bringing down the average. 

SPECIFICATION

Engine	2.0L Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	9-Speed DCT
Torque	380Nm
Power	170kW
Average Fuel Consumption	7.5L per 100km
Price	R495,500

 

Bucket Seat: Haval H7

Haval has become quite a common brand known in the local market, with them capatilizing on the ever growing SUV market with popular and affordable models like the Jolion, H6 and the H6 GT. Sitting on the GWM umbrella which has been on the scenes for over 10 years, consumers have warmed to the idea that everything made in China can't be all that bad and they were not wrong. The cars are great quality, plenty performance, tech packed and overall bang for your buck. If I had to nitpick, the high fuel consumption would be the one downside to them but with the change from CVT to DCT in most of the Chinese imports, this seems to be solving that problem. The Haval H7 has recently entered the South African market, offering a distinctive blend of rugged design, modern technology, and robust performance. This mid-size SUV is positioned between the H6 and H9 models, aiming to cater to families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

DESIGN

The H7's design is characterized by a boxy, retro-inspired profile that exudes a rugged charm. It features a prominent three-tier grille flanked by circular LED headlights, contributing to its bold front fascia. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels housed within flared wheel arches and functional roof rails enhance its adventurous appeal. Despite its robust appearance, the H7 maintains a contemporary aesthetic that aligns with current SUV trends. ​The design says it's ready for the roads less traveled, that along with the flared wheel arches and rugged tyres, it gives off that explorer look. While the front is pretty attractive, I feel they tried to force the design of the rear a bit too much by trying to incorporate the circular light theme there as well. Just seems a bit unpolished to me. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the H7 is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with a 9-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The H7 is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, catering to different driving preferences and conditions. ​On the road, the H7 offers a balanced ride quality, effectively absorbing most road imperfections. The suspension setup, while occasionally firm, contributes to stable handling and a comfortable driving experience. The cabin remains quiet, enhancing the overall sense of refinement during travel. ​While official fuel consumption figures are yet to be confirmed, the H7's engine is engineered for a balance between performance and efficiency. While I only spent a week with it, I hardly drove around as I was away for most of the time but in my short time with it I couldn't get the average below 13.9L per 100km, which won't do any good for the high fuel usage taboo placed on the brand already but one must understand this car is much bigger and heavier, akin to a Jeep so with this in mind, that average is pretty on brand for a car like that.

COMFORT

Inside, the H7 offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin designed with comfort and convenience in mind. High-quality materials are used throughout, and the layout is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The infotainment system is A key focal point of the interior as its a massive 14.6-inch screen that is user-friendly and supports smartphone integration wirelessly. Ample legroom and headroom ensure comfort for all occupants, making it suitable for long journeys. ​The H7 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems. These technologies enhance driver confidence and passenger safety, aligning the H7 with competitors in its segment. ​The comfort access of having proximity sensor with automatic tailgate is a really winner in this car. Works much better than some of the German variants. 

VERDICT

The Haval H7 stands out in the mid-size SUV segment with its distinctive design, robust performance, and well-appointed interior. Its combination of rugged aesthetics and modern features makes it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle. As Haval continues to establish its presence in South Africa, the H7 exemplifies the brand's commitment to delivering quality and value to consumers. With the adventure mindset that most South Africans have, I believe this model will do well locally, its the first real "off road" offering from a Chinese brand locally and apart from it looking the part, it really feels it too. I tested it in some tricky situations from traversing up steep gradients on loose gravel to flooded roads and it excelled in every aspect. The off road controls are easy to use and engage via the touch screen including the Electronic Differential Lock and the 360 degree camera allows you to see everything around you, to avoid any obstacles or the area around you. A much needed model to their already impressive line-up.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	9-Speed DCT
Torque	380Nm
Power	170kW
Avg Fuel Economy	no official rating
Price	R601,950*  base model