Proton X90 vs Chery Tiggo 9 vs Haval H6: Which one has the lowest running costs?

The mid-size crossover SUV segment has exploded in recent years, with every automaker offering models in some shape or form. There are now well over 43 different options for consumers to choose from, including well-established brands and many newcomers.

Related: Chery Tiggo 9 Pro CSH (2025) First Drive Review – Flagship Ambitions with a Few Surprises

If we take a close look at the left-field options, which may not always appear on most car shoppers' shopping lists, we find many manufacturers from the far east, and with so many options, deciding which brand and model is most cost-effective can be difficult.

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Maintenance & Service Plan

This is the most critical area for South African buyers. Potential hidden service costs can derail a budget.

• Haval H6: Provides the best balance of peace of mind with a standard 7-year service plan and a 200,000 km warranty, covering you against major mechanical failures for much longer than the Proton.

• Proton X90: The optional service plan is a significant upfront or monthly cost. If you don't buy it, a minor service in 2026 averages R2 800, and a major service can exceed R7 500.

• Chery Tiggo 9: Matches Haval on service duration, but its complex 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and 20.0-inch wheels on some trims make long-term wear-and-tear items slightly pricier.
  
  

Fuel Efficiency 

South African fuel prices remain volatile. While all three are thirsty 2.0 or 1.5-litre turbos, their real-world consumption differs from the figures in the brochures.

• Proton X90 (1.5T MHEV): Despite the Hybrid badge, it is a mild-hybrid. It cannot drive on electricity alone. In SA city traffic, expect 9.0L – 10.5L / 100km.

• Haval H6 (2.0T): The Ultra Luxury is often AWD, which increases consumption. Expect 10.0 – 11.5L / 100km in combined cycles.

• Chery Tiggo 9 (2.0T): This is the most powerful engine (187kW). If you use that power, consumption climbs quickly to 11.0L+ / 100km.

*Note: If fuel cost is your #1 priority, the Haval H6 HEV (Hybrid) variant (not the 2.0T) is the true winner, consistently returning 6.0L / 100km.

Ownership Costs

• Tyres: All three flagship models use large 19-inch or 20-inch alloys. Replacing a set of four high-quality SUV tyres (e.g., Michelin or Continental) in 2026 costs between R14 000 and R18 000.

• Insurance: Haval currently has the most stable insurance premiums in SA, driven by high sales volumes and improved parts availability. Chery premiums have improved but can still be 10-15% higher than comparable Haval models. Proton's lower sales volume can sometimes lead to higher premiums due to the risk of parts delays.
  
  

Verdict

In South Africa, the Haval H6 2.0T Ultra Luxury currently offers the lowest running costs for the first 5 to 7 years of ownership. While the Chery Tiggo 9 is the most premium and the Proton X90 is a unique 6-seater, the Haval H6’s aggressive service plan and established parts network give it the edge in total cost of ownership (TCO).

1. Haval H6 2.0T Ultra Luxury: Lowest overall cost. The 7-year service plan is included in the price, and the 200 000 km warranty is the strongest in this group for high-mileage drivers.

2. Chery Tiggo 9 2.0T Pinnacle: Best long-term protection. The 1-million km engine warranty is unbeatable if you plan to keep the car for 10 years, though fuel and insurance may be slightly higher.

3. Proton X90 1.5T Flagship: Highest running costs. The lack of a standard service plan and the mild-hybrid system's modest fuel savings make it the most expensive to keep on the road over 5 years.