Haval prepares to assert local presence

By Chad Lückhoff

Over the past few months we've had the opportunity to sample some of the offerings from Chinese manufacturer, Haval. I know that the word Chinese in that statement makes you cringe, but I implore you to hear me out.

Cast aside your preconceived notions of Chinese quality and durability and open you mind to the prospect of European levels of comfort, quality and technology at a price point that rivals even the most frugal Indian, Asian and American offerings. While the established Haval H2 left us expecting a little more, it was the newer H6 with its comfort, space, quality and wallet-friendly price that impressed us the most. Our reviews on the H2 can be found here  and the H6 C video here.

At the recent Auto China 2018, the Beijing International Automotive Exposition, Haval's local dominance was asserted in no uncertain terms with a sizeable stand and several launches. The media and public were shown two new Haval models, a new Wey hybrid luxury SUV and hybrid concept, along with two full EV compact cars under their sub-brand, Ora.

The new Haval H6

The wraps were pulled off of the new Haval H6 SUV, a model which South Africa may see as soon as Q4 2018.

With updated styling and further advances in refinement, the new Haval H6 will make use of the company's new 1.5 GDIT 4-cylinder petrol engine which boasts CVVL (Variable Valve Timing and Lift technology) that improves fuel consumption by 8.4% and reduces emissions. This engine produces 124kW and 285Nm torque. It will be mated to Haval's new 7-speed DCT gearbox, a unit which has been developed internally and promises to offer smooth shifting and reduced drivetrain losses, further aiding in the overall consumption of the new H6.

The interior sees and update with a new layout and revised dashboard along with improved ergonomics and reduced NVH levels. A panoramic sunroof, multi-function leather steering wheel, and 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Seat heaters and dual USB outlets for the rear further enhance the comfort levels in the new H6.

The exterior is redesigned to draw it closer to the more contemporary and sportily-styled H6 C while maintaining enough elegance in design to appease the customer looking for a luxury SUV. LED daytime running lights and sharper creases create a striking presence, one of which comfortably rivals that of its European counterparts.

Safety still features high on the priority list for Haval and the new H6 features a high-rigidity body structure, tyre pressure monitoring, ESP, hill-hold, descent control and six airbags.

Intelligent drive assistance sees the H6 fitted with lane departure warning, cross traffic alert and lane change assist. It is also fitted with 360-degree monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The new Haval F5

Aimed at the younger consumer, the new Haval F5 is a striking and sporty SUV offering from China's best-selling SUV manufacturer. While only available in left-hand drive at the moment, the South African market will be monitored closely to see if it warrants the development of a right-hand drive version for our markets.

This racy number will be sure to attract the attention of the fashion conscious buyer with Haval understanding the demands of the millennial generation and their desire for seamless integration of technology.

While the H-series SUVs promote family, safety and reliability, the F-series focusses more on excitement and a unique driving experience. Bundled with soft-surface deign and tactical elements, the F5 appeals to the younger, more adventurous consumer who doesn't want to compromise on quality or style.

The interior features a floating center screen and connects to a floating center island. Sporty and supportive seats ensure comfort and support when driven and rear headroom was not compromised when designing the raked rear section of the cabin.

A focus on tech sees the latest infotainment technology plumbed into the system onboard the F5, with frequently accessed apps pushed to the forefront. The full digital display allows further customization for the driver, allowing them to access the desired information.

The luxurious Wey P8

The star of the Haval brand's offerings was undoubtedly the unveiling of the Wey P8 hybrid luxury sedan on the Wey stand. Wey is to Haval what Infinity is to Nissan, or Lexus is to Toyota, offering discerning customers with an unrivalled level of luxury at the price.

With edgy design that emulates some of Italy's finest, the Wey brand would do well in South Africa. While the South African market is still under consideration due to the right-hand drive nature of our local market, GWM Vice President, Samuel Chen indicated that South Africa may see the Wey VV7, a smaller non-hybrid Wey product, within the next two years.

The P8 features plug-in hybrid technology and returns consumption figures of under 3l/100km with a range of over 200km on batteries alone. The striking P8 appear futuristic at first but one soon appreciates the avant-garde styling approach, especially once on board in the well trimmed and tech intensive interior. The P8 will take the fight to the Europeans, with it rivalling the likes of the BMW X5 xDrive40e and the Volvo XC90 T8.