Mid-size family SUVs from the east have taken over the local automotive market, giving customers not only highly specialised tech and features, but modern, stylish vehicles that don't break the bank. Three of the most sought-after makes are Haval, Mahindra and now Jetour.
Related: Jaecoo J7 CSH vs Haval H6 HEV vs Chery Tiggo 7 CSH: Which one has the lowest running costs?
Determining the absolute lowest running costs among the Haval H7, Jetour T1, and Mahindra XUV is challenging without a direct, local comparison of all models and their long-term ownership data. However, based on available information and our own testing, we can conclude the following.
Jetour T1 and T2 range launched in South Africa
Purchase price
| Haval H7 2.0T Luxury | R 604 950 |
| Jetour T1 2.0T Xplora XWD | R 594 900 |
| Mahindra XUV700 2.0T AX7L | R 599 999 |
The Haval is only a few thousand rand more expensive than its brethren, with the new Jetour coming in as the cheapest option.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is often the most significant variable in running costs.
Haval H7 2.0T Luxury (Petrol): The Haval H7 2.0T petrol models have claimed consumption figures around 8.1 L/100km (2WD) to 9.1 L/100km (AWD). Real-world statistics may be slightly higher.
Jetour T1 2.0T Xplora XWD (Petrol): The Jetour T1 is a new and rugged model. Direct, official fuel consumption figures are less widely available; however, one source reported a figure of 8.83 L/100 km for the city, suggesting it would likely be in the same range or slightly higher than that of the non-hybrid Haval H7.
- Mahindra XUV700 2.0T AX7L (Petrol): The Mahindra XUV700 returned slightly higher fuel consumption figures in our testing of around 10L/100km
Fuel Cost Winner
Haval H7
- Mahindra XUV700
Jetour T1 (Still requires testing)
Maintenance and Service Costs
This is where the structure of the sale can make a big difference, especially for newer brands.
Haval H7: Comes with a generous 7-year/75,000 km Service Plan in some markets, which significantly reduces scheduled maintenance costs for the first few years. This is a massive benefit for running costs. It also has a strong 7-year/200,000 km warranty.
Jetour T1: Information is less consistent, but in some markets, it is offered with a 6-year unlimited mileage warranty. Check for the inclusion of the service plan in your local market, as this is the primary cost factor for maintenance.
Mahindra XUV: Service costs for Mahindra models are generally considered competitive and relatively low, especially for well-established models like the XUV. However, the standard Service Plan length and mileage may be shorter than the Haval, so you'll start paying for services sooner.
Maintenance Cost Winner (Initial Years):
Haval H7 (due to the extensive 7-year service plan, effectively covering most early maintenance costs).
Reliability and Parts Availability
Mahindra XUV: As a more established model/brand in several markets, parts availability and service network are generally better, which can lead to lower repair costs and less downtime in the long run.
Haval/Jetour: While both brands have grown significantly, local parts availability and the cost of non-routine repairs can sometimes pose a greater risk for newer Chinese brands, although their comprehensive warranties initially mitigate this risk.
Verdict
The model with the lowest running costs largely depends on whether you value initial service coverage or long-term fuel economy:
For the lowest overall cost in the initial years (factoring in maintenance): The Haval H7 (due to its comprehensive 7-year/75 000 km Service Plan, which pre-pays your scheduled maintenance).
- Recommendation: If a Haval H7 HEV is available in your region, its low fuel consumption, combined with the lengthy service plan, makes it the strongest contender. If the hybrid is not an option, the standard Haval H7, with its excellent service plan, would be your best bet, depending on the annual mileage you cover.
