The South African car market is not unique but it is difficult to break into. Manufacturers need to find the perfect balance between pricing and specification before the larger vehicle buying demographic will respond. Haval has achieved this balance by offering more premium styling and standard equipment while achieving competitive pricing.
Related: Haval's affordable H2 can hang with the big boys
With the growing popularity of the H2 model, the brand has not only expanded its SUV range to include the larger H6 and flagship H9 but also its dealership footprint locally. With only serving two years before it received a facelift, the older H2 model remains popular in the used vehicle market. Let us see in which three categories the new model shines out.
Styling
One of the most noticeable changes on the vehicle is the updated styling on the exterior. Upfront the grille has been reworked into a hexagonal shape and is flanked by new headlights which now resemble those on the larger H6 model. Lower down is a more aggressive front bumper while at the sides feature newly designed 18-inch wheels. The rear sees a new bumper slitter and larger exhaust tips.
On the interior, Haval has incorporated ambient lighting and more soft-touch materials. The facia sees also now feature piano-lacquer for that premium look and feel. Haval has also introduced a new interior colour option which sees red leather incorporated into the seats and door trim to contrast with the black surfaces.
Technology
A key change on the interior is the inclusion of an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system which forms part of the list of standard equipment. The system is Apple CarPlay compatible and allows for Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming. Bolstering the list of standard features are cruise control which can be accessed from the multi-function steering wheel.
Safety
The updated Haval H2 now comes fitted with 6 airbags as standard, as well as ABS with EBD, brake assist and electronic stability control. Furthermore, reversing is made easier with rear park distance control paired with a rearview camera. The system is standard across the range displays the image on the newly fitted screen. The safety systems are also bolstered with a tyre pressure monitoring system which displays on the screen featuring in the instrument cluster.
Pricing
The Haval H2 1.5T Luxury is priced at R 314 900 while the Haval H2 1.5T City auto retails for R 324 900. The top of the range Haval H2 1.5T Luxury auto will set you back R 349 900.
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