Is the Haval H2 good for families? Here’s our verdict.
Those seeking reliable family transport can do much worse than the now-discontinued Haval H2. Despite receiving a facelift in 2020, the value-packed Jolion took its place in 2021. If you're considering a used H2, is it worth your time and money?
Haval has introduced many new models since its arrival on local shores in 2017. The brand has also become a trusted one amongst South Africans. One of the earlier models Haval launched locally was the H2 which the very popular Jolion has subsequently replaced. But the question we now ask, is will it be a good option for your family?
Before we get into the details, remember that you can sell your car quickly and easily with our Instant Offer tool here before you start searching for used Haval H2 models on AutoTrader here.
Haval marketed their H2 as a medium-sized family SUV, but is it really family-friendly?
If you're looking for a family SUV that offers good quality, practicality, and value for money, is a used Haval H2 (search AutoTrader) worth considering? Here's what you need to know - or read all H2 news and advice here.
Safety
Safety is a massive selling point when families buy cars. The Haval H2 has received a 5-star safety rating from C-NCAP and ANCAP, thanks to its dual frontal, side, and curtain airbags, ABS braking with EBD, and other safety features. The car's safety collision evaluation system meets all the global market requirements, according to Haval's vice president, Samuel Chen.
Recommended: AutoTrader's Car Buying Glossary of Terms
Wondering how the H2 fares against its competitors? We pit the Haval H2 against the Mazda CX-3 and Mitsubishi ASX.
Practicality
Rear passenger space is quite generous for the market sector. In the Haval H2, you’re also getting a full-sized alloy wheel that hides under the boot floor, and there’s a pull-out tonneau cover to hide valuables from prying eyes.
Recommended: Which Haval H2 trim holds its value better?
Quality
I must admit that I may have been negatively biased against some of the Chinese brands in the past. Perhaps, in the beginning, the quality of their vehicles wasn't impressive overall, but Haval has taken a page out of the book of Korean brands, offering comprehensive specification levels at much lower prices than the opposition. This doesn't mean that the H2 is a winner, however.
Sell your old car quickly with Instant Offer, now!
Looking for an older model? Here are just two of our reviews you can delve into for a further breakdown of the H2:
1. The Haval H2 could become a common sight on our roads
2. Haval H2 1.5T Luxury Auto
Specifications
Specification levels on all models in the range are high. Features include items like dual-zone automatic air conditioning, electronic parking brake, hill descent control (on automatic versions), keyless go (push button start), sunroof, multimedia equipment, and more. See below:
- Dual-zone Automatic Air Conditioning
- 3D Fashionable Multi-functional Dashboard
- Electronic parking brake
- Hill descent control (on automatic versions)
- ABS braking with EBD
- Keyless go (Push Button Start)
- 6-Way electrically adjustable driver seat
- Sunroof
- Multi-media equipment
- Multifunctional steering wheel
- Front active headrest
- Park Distance Control and a reverse camera
- Keyless Entry System
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Driving impression on launch
I attended the launch of the 2020 H2 facelift and was very impressed, but it's only after a few months or years of ownership that a car starts to show its true colours - a day in a car isn't nearly enough. But post-launch, these were my thoughts on the Haval H2 after driving it around 200 km or so:
The brand is hell-bent on making a dent in a segment that is dominated by the Germans, Koreans, French and Japanese, with a car that has everything the modern family needs (including plenty of legroom on the rear bench), but at a price that isn't going to cause a lump in your throat. - Ané Albertse, AutoTrader
Read the full report here: Haval's H2 can hang with the big boys (January 2020)
Customer Reviews
According to many H2 customer reviews, the H2 is smooth to drive, light on fuel, and great for parking. Backseat passengers say there is plenty of space, and it's comfortable. The car is also quite sporty thanks to its 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, and affordable.
Unfortunately, there are also bad reviews on Hello Peter, South Africa's leading reviews site. Haval SA's rating is a miserly 1.56 out of 5 stars on Hello Peter. After reading those reviews, buying a Haval would probably fill most potential buyers with dread.
Verdict
The Haval H2 offers great value for money, decent build quality, good practicality for families, and a smooth ride. (When it was still available new, the purchase price included a 5-year or 60 000 km service plan, a 5-year or 100 000 km warranty plus 5 years/unlimited km Roadside Assist.)
Considering that there have been complaints about the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and automatic transmission causing mechanical troubles, poor after-sales service, and long waiting periods for parts, the H2 is probably not the first used car I'd recommend to people. Call me old fashioned, but I would rather stick with the more established brands like Honda, Toyota, Ford, VW, Hyundai, and Kia, to name a few. Some of my favourites in the segment include the Renault Duster, Suzuki Vitara, and Toyota Corolla Cross.
Feeling hopeful? Search for used Haval H2 models on Autotrader
