After spending a day with the refined and efficient Haval H6 on launch last week, which included the scenic Franschhoek Pass (covered in our first drive review here), we also tested something with a bit more bite, namely the range-topping H6 GT PHEV on a private track near Franschhoek.
The numbers
The H6 GT PHEV certainly has impressive credentials. This plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors – one at each axle – to deliver a combined 321 kW of power and 762 Nm of torque. On paper, that translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.9 seconds – quick enough to take on hot hatches like the Golf GTI (0-100 in 4.8).
Related: What is the resale value of the outgoing Haval H6 GT?
Athletic looks
The H6 GT PHEV doesn't hide its performance aspirations. Its aggressive body kit with dual rear spoilers, aero side skirts, and sporty rear diffuser separates it from the standard H6, while the matte black overfenders house 19-inch alloys wrapped in 235/55 R19 rubber.
It looks purposeful without being over-the-top – a difficult balance to strike in this segment. However, like many other Chinese SUVs, its overall design feels slightly generic. The 'normal' H6 with its sexy grille at least sets it apart, and I was hoping for a more aggressive approach to its front end.
Download the full Haval H6GT brochure here to see all the specs.
Does the previous Haval H6 GT have a sunroof?
Interior
Inside, the sporty theme continues with sports front and rear seats featuring Alcantara inserts and carbon fibre visual accents. The 12.3-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument panel are transparent and responsive, while the head-up display provides essential information without requiring you to take your eyes off the road.
The safety systems remain comprehensive, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot detection all standard.
Track time!
A privately owned race track was made available to experience the H6GT's nimble handling firsthand.
Pulling away from a standstill, there's a substantial acceleration surge as electric motors and the petrol engine work together. It's certainly quick, the kind of shunt you'd get from a dedicated performance car. The 4.9-second sprint time feels accurate, though the vehicle's two-tonne-plus weight is always present.
The H6 GT PHEV handles itself impressively through corners. It maintains composure despite its considerable heft due to that substantial battery pack. Body roll is well-controlled for an SUV, though you'll never mistake it for a full-blood sports car. The intelligent 4WD system, with electric motors on both axles, provides good traction out of corners.
Related: Chery Tiggo 8 Pro vs Haval H6 GT (2023) vs VW Tiguan Allspace
The steering offers good precision around the track, allowing you to place the SUV confidently through the corners. It's responsive enough for the driving enthusiast, while remaining comfortable for trips to the mall and dropping kids off at school.
Braking performance is excellent, stopping the H6GT dead in its tracks exactly where and how it should.
Haval H6 GT 2022 - First Drive
Real-world benefits of PHEVs
While most South Africans are not big on fully electric cars, PHEVs offer a range (no pun intended) of benefits. With a fully charged battery, the H6 GT can travel up to 180 km on pure electric power, ample for daily commuting. This means you can plug in your car for a few hours when you get home and not use a drop of petrol when running your daily errands. With a dedicated AC wall box at home, charging time should take about 2.5 to 4 hours for a full charge.
Another bonus is that the H6GT's combined range extends to approximately 1,000 km when both power sources are used together, so when you take that annual family road trip to the coast, you can charge along the way and but don't have to rely on charging stations.
Verdict
At R799,900, the H6 GT PHEV is at the top of GWM's lineup, but it offers excellent value against European performance SUVs with similar power outputs. The comprehensive warranty package adds further appeal: a 7-year/200,000 km general warranty, an 8-year/150,000 km battery warranty, and a 7-year/75,000 km service plan.
Related: What you need to know about the 2022 Haval H6 GT.
