Great Wall Motor Company has started 2025 strong with the launch of its H7, a new flagship within the Haval sub-brand. We recently drove the new model in east Johannesburg. Here's what you need to know about it!
Related:GWM P500 2.4T Super Luxury 4x4 (2024) Review
What's headed our way from GWM in 2025?
The brand mentioned we will receive a hybrid version of the H7, the P300 bakkie, the Tank 300 with a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine and an updated H6 in South Africa in 2025!
H7 styling
The H7 is longer, wider and taller than its H6 and H6 GT siblings, with which it shares a platform and drivetrains. Aesthetics are an inherently subjective matter, and the H7 is sure to divide opinion. From what I can see, it features a squared-off design with elements of Toyota, Ford, and Mazda. The 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels are contrasted by rivetted plastic fenders and roof rails, giving the H7 an off-road-ready look. The front end, particularly its LED lighting, features elements reminiscent of Ford's Mustang. At the same time, the general proportions have some Toyota Land Cruiser-esque elements, with the rear lights looking a lot like the brand has copied Mazda's homework.
Interior Design
Inside, the H7 feels nicely built, and the material quality is impressive, aside from the silver-pained faux plastic screws throughout the cabin, which are certain to age poorly. A large 14.6-inch floating infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digitised instrument cluster dominate the cabin, with the latter featuring a panel on top of the screen to showcase what gear has been selected. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while Super Luxury models add a head-up display and ventilated front seats. Other interior features include a ventilated 50W wireless smartphone charger, 35 storage areas throughout the cabin, a rear luggage floor that can be removed and used as a camping table, 483 litres of boot space, a panoramic sunroof, and an electric tailgate. The spacious interior, with the capacious boot complemented by superb rear occupant space, making this ideal for families.
Drivetrains
The H7 offers two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 170kW and 380Nm (up from 150kW/320Nm in the H6), which is paired with a 9-speed wet dual-clutch transmission that sends power to either a two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive system, depending on the derivative. The upcoming hybrid model features the brand's turbocharged hybrid drivetrain, which combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor and the Dual Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Combined outputs are 179kW and 530Nm, and the hybrid model is only available in 2WD guise.
Off-Road capability
The H7 4WD model features a Haldex-style BorgWarner four-wheel drive system. It has an All-Terrain Mode with settings for Grass, Gravel, Sand, and Snow and settings for road driving. An electronic rear differential lock, Off-Road Cruise Control, and a ground clearance of 210mm also assist in off-road ability. The approach, departure, and breakover angles are 24,30 and 19 degrees, respectively, making it slightly better than the Subaru Forester, which has a reputation for being capable off-road.
Safety and Driver Assistance
All models have six airbags: Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). There's also a 360-degree (540-degree in 4WD model) camera and Adaptive Intelligent Cruise Control
Driving Impressions
We had a chance to drive a 4WD variant from east Johannesburg through Pretoria, including back roads, highways and city driving. While the calibration of the throttle and gearbox is still not up to scratch, it is much improved; however, there is a discernible amount of lag exhibited by the engine, which, when combined with a gearbox that often doesn't know which gear it wants to be in at low speed, can lead to a less than ideal driving experience. Out on the open road, the refinement, ride quality and cabin intrusion are impressive, making this a great vehicle for road trips.
Fuel consumption remains a bugbear, with our combined average coming out at 11.3 L/100km for the day, despite a claim of 9.1 L/100km; however, the hybrid model is sure to be the most frugal within the range when it arrives. Heading onto a gravel road is where I was most impressed with the H7, with the ride quality and perceived build quality proving impressive over bumpy and heavily corrugated surfaces.
Pricing*
2.0T Luxury 9DCT: R601 950
2.0T Super Luxury 9DCT 4WD: R671 950
1.5T Super Luxury DHT Hybrid: R730 950 (arrives in Q2 2025)
*Pricing includes a 7-year/200 000km warranty, 7-year unlimited roadside assistance, a 7-year/75 000km service plan, and, in the case of the hybrid model, an 8-year/150 000km hybrid high voltage components warranty
