The South African SUV market continues to grow, with Great Wall Motors (GWM) making a bold statement by launching the new Haval H7. Positioned as a step up from its smaller H6 sibling, the H7 introduces a fresh design language, improved mechanical refinement, and a suite of advanced features bound to capture local buyers’ attention.
It is fast becoming passé to refer to the onslaught of Chinese auto brands in the local market, as if the rise of Chinese cars here is somehow still expected to occur, or that the market is being taken by surprise.
GWM, for example, celebrates 18 years in the SA market this year – that’s hardly a new brand – and certainly not one without a long-standing track record here.
You could argue that many factors other than how long a brand has been available in the market are at play for buyers who have to live with the consequences of their buying decisions for years, but it certainly helps that GWM has almost two decades of experience in our market and has used the last five years well to gain a deeper understanding of what South African buyers expect from their products
The new H7 SUV from GWM sub-brand Haval is a case in point. Its robust and purposeful design sets it apart from most other mid-size offroaders available in SA today, and while it shares some underpinnings with the smaller (and older) H6, the H7’s design language signals a clear departure from the everyday for GWM.
Immediately noticeable is the H7’s bold stance that is accentuated by large, squared-off wheel arches and a confident front grille emblazoned with the “HAVAL” insignia. The retro-styled, round LED headlights draw inspiration from icons like the Land Rover Defender, underscoring its off-road potential. With ample ground clearance and commendable approach and departure angles, the H7 doesn’t just look the part – it’s built for weekend adventurers seeking more than tarmac-only capability.
NEW-GENERATION POWER
Beneath the bonnet lies GWM’s latest 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, paired with a nine-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (9DCT). This combination delivers 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque, substantially improving throttle calibration and overall ride refinement compared to earlier Haval models.
During the launch drive, the H7 impressed with its smooth power delivery and well-calibrated gearbox, which intuitively shifted through its ratios. Available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants (for now), the latter benefits from an intelligent all-wheel-drive system equipped with multiple terrain modes. Grass, gravel, mud, and sand are effortlessly managed, aided by a rear differential lock and a ground clearance of 210 mm, making it a legitimate contender for outdoor enthusiasts.
IT’S NOT A LUXURY SUV?
The cabin of the Haval H7 is where this SUV truly shines. GWM has taken a substantial leap forward regarding interior quality, offering a space that feels both sumptuous and inviting. High-grade materials are used throughout, and the level of fit and finish rivals that of far more expensive vehicles. The 14.6” central touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard, complementing a customisable 12.3” digital instrument cluster. While the infotainment system is visually impressive and packed with features, certain controls, like adjusting the audio volume, could be more user-friendly.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked, either. The H7’s boot space is 483 litres, and it expands to 1,362 litres when the rear seats are folded. This versatility ensures the H7 caters to families and adventurers alike.
From a safety perspective, the H7 delivers peace of mind with minimal compromise. Six airbags are standard across the range, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are integrated to bolster safety. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a 360-degree parking camera. The top-tier Super Luxury models go a step further, adding conveniences such as cooled front seats, a foot-swipe tailgate function, and full leather upholstery. On the move, the H7’s cabin remains exceptionally quiet, even at higher speeds, a testament to its sound insulation and refinement.
ALMOST THERE
Despite GWM’s optimistic fuel efficiency claims, the launch vehicles averaged around 9.7 l/100 km during the drive event. While this figure is higher than anticipated, it’s worth noting that these vehicles were brand new, and consumption figures are likely to improve as the engines are run in. Nonetheless, the initial figures may give pause to those prioritising economy.
Pricing for the Haval H7 reflects its impressive array of features and refinement. The range starts with the H7 2.0T Luxury 9DCT (2WD) at R601,950, climbing to R671,950 for the 2.0T Super Luxury 9DCT (4WD). If greater efficiency is what you’re after, a 1.5T Super Luxury DHT Hybrid variant, priced at R730,950, is set to arrive in the second quarter of 2025. All models come with a seven-year/200,000 km warranty, seven-year unlimited roadside assistance, and a seven-year/75,000 km service plan, providing peace of mind for buyers.
LAST WORD
The Haval H7 represents a significant step forward for GWM in South Africa, delivering a compelling mix of rugged capability, refined performance, and upmarket features. While there is room for improvement – particularly in fuel economy and certain infotainment controls – the H7 positions itself as a versatile and well-rounded option for those seeking an SUV that bridges the gap between urban sophistication and off-road adventure.
If GWM continues to capatalise on their local momentum, by ensuring that their cars are as secure from an aftersales point of view as they are from a marketing one, the Chinese onslaught, at least from a GWM perspective, will soon become a default brand for money-conscious buyers, if it isn’t already.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © GWM SOUTH AFRICA
