Latest news with #Haval
The South African
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- The South African
Is the 2025 Haval H6 HEV the best Chinese car in South Africa?
Is the 2025 Haval H6 hybrid the best Chinese car sold in South Africa? The question hangs in the air like morning mist over the Atlantic seaboard. However, this question about the provenance of Chinese cars in South Africa demands an answer that goes beyond mere speculation. And after spending a week behind the wheel of the R641 500 2025 Haval H6 1.5T DHT in Luxury spec, we find ourselves nodding in the affirmative. You don't need us to remind you there's been a veritable invasion of Chinese cars into South Africa in the last five years. Moreover, the Chinese approach is to have premium marques for each brand, which gives the impression of even more product flooding our roads. For example, Haval is Great Wall Motor's premium brand (hence both badges on this car). And over the years, it's been the Chinese nameplate that European, Japanese and Korean manufacturers have been taking notice of. Subtle refinements to the 2025 Haval H6's styling like distinctive, horizontal LED running lights, only add more appeal. Image: GWM/Haval Allow us to explain why this particular Chinese car has shifted our perspective on what our BRICS+ partners can achieve. Unarguably the most striking aspect of the 2025 Haval H6 lies in its improvement in what engineers call 'intuitive usability.' Essentially, it's how naturally a driver can interact with the vehicle's control systems. This has always been a Volkswagen Group strength and that's why so many people feel comfortable in 'peoples' cars.' Previously, Chinese cars often suffered from poor interfaces and menus buried within menus. Key functions were scattered across multiple screens, complicated to access, like puzzle pieces waiting to be assembled. Now, however, the 2025 Haval H6 has a user experience (UX) worthy of praise. A 12.3-inch infotainment display responds with smartphone-like fluidity. And the dead-ahead instrument cluster, while slightly small, provides hierarchical information in a logical manner. The learning curve here is measured in minutes rather than days. The Chinese marque's quick adoption of hybrid technology really caught out many of the established car brands in South Africa. Image: GWM/Haval One of the best hybrids we've ever drive is the Honda Fit. And for just R100 000 more you can have similar technology in a full-size SUV. As such, the technical centerpiece of the 2025 Haval H6 HEV vehicle lies in its dual-motive drivetrain. Denoted as DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Technology), it combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor. And it isn't transmitted via some forgettable CVT but rather a decent 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. In practice it's a carefully orchestrated system where both power sources work in harmony for either efficiency or performance, depending on driving conditions. In mixed driving scenarios is where the 2025 Haval H6 hybrid shines. The electric motor provides immediate torque for urban acceleration, while the petrol engine seamlessly engages for highway cruising. The transition between modes occurs with such smoothness that passengers often remain unaware. During our testing through stop-start traffic, the system consistently delivered refined performance at low speeds. The claimed fuel economy figure is 5.2 l/100 km, however, a realistic real-world figure is a still-impressive 6.5 l/100 km. Striking good looks and impressive hybrid efficiency keep it top of mind for full-size SUV buyers in South Africa. Image: GWM/Haval One bugbear we'd love to see rectified on the next Haval HEV is quicker access to its regenerative braking modes. There are three settings and its only accessible via the central touchscreen, when paddles or standalone buttons would work much better. The Western Cape's undulating terrain and frequent traffic provide ample opportunities for energy recovery, which the H6 hybrid doesn't always fully utilise. Therefore, the 2025 Haval H6 battery, while adequate, never once reached full charge during our test. Unlike plug-in hybrids that can rely on external charging, the H6's battery depends entirely on engine charging and regenerative braking for replenishment. After a while it just gets disheartening not to see the battery at more the 50-60% no matter how clever you get with your technique. And during extended highway driving, where regenerative braking opportunities are minimal the engine simply works harder to keep you going. Clean, minimalist and concise. A few more hard buttons wouldn't go amiss but, overall, the UX is much improved in the 2025 Haval H6. Image: GWM/Haval However, we cannot fail to highlight 2025 Haval H6 Luxury's excellent cabin. This brand has undergone substantial improvements in build quality since the days of the GWM Florid, which I'm sure many would care to forget for its cavernous trim-gap tolerances. The interior materials feel premium to the touch, with soft-touch surfaces extending across most contact points. Likewise, interior space is absolutely massive, swallowing a surfboard or bicycle (not at the same time) without having to adjust the front row of seats. The cabin remained free from any squeaks, rattles, and creaks during the test period. Of course, this progression extends to all digital elements of the 2025 Haval H6, too. A suite of driver-assistance technologies is made up of adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assistance systems. Each works with a human-like smoothness most of the time and provides gentle adjustments to control interfaces without much intrusion. Ground clearance is ample, as is interior utility space. As such, there's precious little the new Haval H6 doesn't excel at. Image: GWM/Haval Crucially, at just R641 500, the Haval H6 1.5T DHT Luxury Hybrid represents compelling value in South Africa. This excellent price positions it well below established competitors, while offering technology and refinement levels that often exceed them. The 2025 Haval H6 HEV marks not only a significant milestone but signals the arrival of a truly impressive Chinese car. This combination of sophisticated hybrid drivetrain, dramatically improved UX, a comprehensive technology suite, and solid build quality mean this is indeed the best Chinese car in South Africa. But new cars are coming thick and fast … 2025 Haval H6 1.5T DHT Luxury Hybrid Price: R641 500 R641 500 Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder, turbo petrol + electric motor 1.5-litre 4-cylinder, turbo petrol + electric motor Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch auto 7-speed dual-clutch auto Power: 179 kW 179 kW Torque: 530 Nm 530 Nm Zero to 100 km/h: 8.5 seconds (claimed) 8.5 seconds (claimed) Consumption (claimed/tested): 5.2 l/100 km & 6.5 l/100 km Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Courier-Mail
7 days ago
- Courier-Mail
Man in 60s shot in home invasion at Gladstone Park, Melbourne
Don't miss out on the headlines from Breaking News. Followed categories will be added to My News. A man in his 60s has been shot during a suspected targeted home invasion in Melbourne's northwest. Police were called to the Gladstone Park home about 1.30am on Thursday after a triple-0 call was made reporting several people had broken in. Police received a triple-0 call reporting the home invasion. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling Victoria Police initially said a man had been stabbed but later confirmed he had been shot. 'Emergency services were called to Trentham Drive following reports multiple offenders had broken into a house and assaulted the two occupants about 1.25am,' a police spokesperson said. 'It is believed the male resident confronted the group before the offenders discharged a firearm at him and assaulted him with weapons. Detectives remained at the scene later on Thursday morning. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling The man was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling 'Officers were told the group also threatened a 57-year-old woman with the firearm. 'Investigators believe the incident was targeted.' Police are searching for a white Haval SUV that the group fled in. 'The 60-year-old man sustained serious injuries consistent with a gunshot wound and was transported to hospital,' the spokesperson said. The woman was not physically injured. Police want anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward. Detective Inspector Adam Tilley is expected to provide further details later on Wednesday. Originally published as Man in 60s shot in Melbourne home invasion
Business Recorder
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
Sazgar records ‘second-highest' 4-wheeler sales in June 2025
The Sazgar Engineering Works (SAZEW) reported on Friday that it had sold 1,349 units of its 4-wheelers in June 2025, a number that a local research house said was the company's second highest in a month. The company anticipated in March 2025 that the demand for automobiles would boost in the wake of economic stabilisation and reduced interest rates in Pakistan. SAZEW rolled out its first four-wheeler in August 2022 in Pakistan under a joint venture with Great Wall Motor (GWM) of China. Sazgar Engineering profit jumps 105% to Rs6.23bn in 3QFY25 According to a notification SAZEW sent to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), its sales in the month of June were notably higher compared to production of the vehicles reported at 985 units in the month under review. In a brief commentary, Topline Research said, 'SAZEW records second highest 4-wheeler sales in June 2025'. The sales hit 1,349 units in June 2025, surging by 47% compared to the previous month of May. The sales jumped 2.55-time in June compared to the same month of the last year. With this, the company's sales doubled in a year, rising to 10,844 units in FY25 compared to FY24, according to the research house. The company sold 2,435 units of 3-wheelers in June 2025 that remained significantly high compared to the production of 1,420 units of the vehicle in the month, according to the notification. According to the third quarterly financial statement of the company of March 2025, it sold a total of 8,313 units of 4-wheelers in the first nine-month (Jul-Mar) of FY25 that were 159% higher compared to 3,205 units sold in the same period of FY24. 'Auto sector is gradually recovering and progressing towards higher sales volume in line with economic stabilisation. Lower interest rates are expected to boost the auto financing and demand of vehicles in the country,' financial statement read. Sazgar plans NEV rollout by FY26, ups CapEx to Rs11.5bn At present, SAZEW is marketing around six cars including a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) Haval at present in Pakistan. It is expected to roll out NEV [New Energy Vehicles] into the Pakistani market in the latter part of FY26, as the automaker announced to raise the capital expenditure (CapEx) of its NEV facility by 155%. On Friday, Sazgar's share price hit an intra-day high at Rs1,248.85/share from opening at Rs1,172/share. It, however, closed at Rs1,192.32 on the close of the trading session, limiting day-to-day gains at Rs28.87 or 2.48%.
Economic Key
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Economic Key
GB Auto Unveils All-New 4th Generation Haval H6 with Sleek Design
In a bold step that underscores its ongoing success in the Egyptian market, GB Auto — the exclusive distributor of the Haval brand in Egypt — has announced the launch of the 4th generation of the Haval H6 SUV. The model boasts a dynamic new design, an advanced suite of smart technologies, and high levels of comfort and safety, making it one of the most distinguished options in its segment. This launch builds on the success of previous Haval models and caters to customers seeking an SUV that combines practical elegance with efficient performance. It also reflects GB Auto's ongoing commitment to offering advanced models that meet the evolving needs of the Egyptian market. The new model underscores GB Auto's leadership in the SUV segment, one of the fastest-growing segments in the local market in recent years. As the exclusive distributor of Haval in Egypt, one of the world's leading Chinese SUV brands, GB Auto continues to expand its innovative lineup, offering models that combine superior build quality with the latest in automotive technology. Eng. Mohamed Mourad, Haval Franchise Assistant Vice President at GB Auto, commented: 'The launch of the 4th generation of the Haval H6 is not just the introduction of an advanced model, it's a strategic step that reflects GB Auto's commitment to leading the future of the SUV market in Egypt and reinforcing Haval's position as a key player in one of the most dynamic and competitive segments.' He added: 'This model offers an exceptional driving experience powered by cutting-edge technology, reflecting our pledge to deliver reliable choices that meet the aspirations of Egyptian consumers and fit seamlessly with their modern lifestyles. At GB Auto, we believe the future of the automotive market lies in innovation, after-sales excellence, and delivering models that meet real customer needs while keeping pace with their expectations.' The new Haval H6 is offered in two trims—Platinum and Ultra—and comes with impressive dimensions that grant the car a strong road presence and excellent stability. The vehicle measures 4,703 mm in length, 1,886 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,738 mm. It offers a luggage capacity of 560 liters and a 61-liter fuel tank, enhancing its practicality on long journeys and making it a solid choice for families and comfort-focused drivers. It features an advanced suspension system with McPherson struts at the front and a Multi-link system at the rear, ensuring a smooth and stable ride on various terrains. The electric power steering system (EPS) provides precise handling. The H6 4th generation is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 181 horsepower at 5,500 to 6,000 rpm and 275 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch wet transmission (7DCT). Both trims are equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems that enhance driver confidence and passenger protection. These include 6 airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESP), traction and stability control systems, brake assist, hill-start assist and hill-descent control, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, tire pressure monitoring system, engine immobilizer, ISOFIX child seat anchors, rearview camera, 540° surround view, and rear parking sensors. The Ultra trim adds an extra layer of intelligent protection with features such as forward distance warning, auto-dimming interior mirror, traffic jam assist, forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, lane change assist, rear collision alert, blind spot collision avoidance, intelligent cruise control, and auto-parking system, making it one of the safest and most intelligent cars in its class. On the inside, both trims offer a premium experience with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, shift-by-wire electronic gear selector, 12V front power outlet, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 60:40 split-folding rear seats, auto up/down power windows, rear AC vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear center armrest with cupholders, leather upholstery, and an electrically adjustable driver's seat. The Ultra trim raises the comfort level further with driver seat memory, an electrically adjustable front passenger seat, and an additional 12V outlet in the trunk. The exterior design reflects modernity and sporty sophistication, with 19-inch alloy wheels that enhance road presence, a temporary spare tire, practical roof rails for added storage, power-folding and heated side mirrors for convenience, and an integrated full-LED lighting system that includes LED headlamps, tail lamps, daytime running lights, turn signals in the mirrors, a high-mounted LED brake light, and rear fog lamps. The Ultra trim also features ambient interior lighting that creates an upscale, relaxing atmosphere for nighttime driving. The H6 also includes a full suite of intelligent comfort features such as a smart key with keyless entry, privacy-enhancing tinted rear glass, cruise control, auto lighting and rain sensors that respond to surrounding conditions, multiple driving modes, and a 50W fast wireless phone charger, adding modern convenience to every drive. The Ultra trim also boasts a panoramic sunroof that enhances cabin openness and a power-operated tailgate that simplifies loading and unloading, particularly during busy daily routines. Finally, both Platinum and Ultra trims are equipped with advanced infotainment systems, featuring a large 14.6-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth®️ connectivity, six versatile power outlets with fast charging, a multi-function steering wheel, and a voice recognition system for more intuitive interactions. The Platinum trim comes with 8 speakers, while the Ultra trim enhances the auditory experience with 9 speakers for richer, clearer sound throughout the cabin. It's worth noting that GB Auto offers one of the largest after-sales service networks in the Egyptian market, with strategically located showrooms, certified service centers, and digital services that allow customers to browse and purchase vehicles online. This ensures a seamless and fully integrated customer journey, reflecting the company's commitment to digital transformation and exceptional customer experience, fully aligned with Egypt's Vision 2030 for financial and technological inclusion. تم نسخ الرابط
The Citizen
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Facelift: GWM Haval H6 improves an already hard-to-beat package
Its flagship SUV until the arrival of the H7 at the beginning of the year, Great Wall Motors (GWM) Haval officially removed the wraps from the facelift H6 in South Africa last week after confirming initial details in February. Almost brand new The first and most comprehensive update to the H6 since its local market arrival four years ago, the changes not only involve aesthetics, but also the interior in a such way that it could be described as a completely new vehicle. While indeed referred to by the company rebranded last year as GWM Haval, hence the H6 sporting GWM branding on its tailgate and no longer simply only Haval, the launch in a drizzly and cold Cape Town also came with a surprise in the first-time sampling of the sportier H6 GT, though more about this later. A key model for GWM, as it together with the Jolion, makes up the bulk of the Haval division's sales as a result of the H7 still being new, the H6's exterior changes mirror those of the Chinese market variant, shown last year, without any market specific differences. New outside Spanning four models, excluding the pair of GT variants, all H6s receive new LED headlights, a redesigned front bumper, a new chrome grille, and Peugeot-type fog lamps that run in a claw motif from the main clusters down the flanks of the bumper. Not stopping there, GWM has updated the lower air intake and fitted gloss black 19-inch alloy wheels across the entire range after it proved popular on higher-end versions of the pre-facelift model. Just as prominent are the changes at the rear comprising the mentioned GWM logo in a block letter typeface between the new LED light clusters, a restyled bumper, roof rails and window surrounds finished in gloss black, and a slightly changed tailgate. Completing the exterior, the choice of colours has been streamlined to comprise three carryover options and a new addition, the former trio being Hamilton White, Ayers Grey and Sun Black, and the latter a shade called Noble Gold. Completely spruced-up interior Opening the door, the sweeping changes see the H6 adopt the now customary minimalistic design similar to the H7, but without letting go entirely of physical switches for some functions. In this regard, GWM has fitted a floating new centre console with a pair of wireless smartphone chargers, two cupholders, a storage area on the upper section, and a storage slot plus a pair of USB ports below. The placing of the former means the rotary gear selector departs in favour of a steering column-mounted lever, while the steering wheel has been revised with a ticker outer rim Taking prominence are the new 10.25-inch freestanding instrument cluster and the 14.6-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Replacing the previous 12.3-inch setup, the new display also serves as the interface for the climate control, though GWM has seen it wise to retain a traditional 'on/off' button rather than embedding it into the system. What did, however, come as irksome is increasing or lowering the volume of the sound system, which requires the 'folder' button on the top right of the steering wheel to be pressed until the green icon within the cluster disappears. Only then does the volume button become operational. As annoying and unnecessarily complicated as this is, the rest of the interior feels plush, premium and well put together, with only the odd scratchy surface being present. On the practicality side, space lacks for little and while the base model does without an electric tailgate, boot space is still more than impressive at 560l – this applying only to the petrol H6 and not the GT or the HEV. Spec and tech In terms of specification, the H6 range sports four trim levels, with the Luxury now becoming the base grade in place of the discontinued Premium. Besides the items already mentioned, the Luxury comes standard with an eight-speaker sound system, rain sense wipers, electric driver's seats, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, ambient lighting, heated and folding electric mirrors, and push-button start as well as keyless entry. Taking care of safety is the following: 540-degree camera system Tyre pressure monitor Front and rear parking sensors Adaptive Cruise Control Rollover Mitigation Hill Start Assist Automatic Emergency Braking Lane Keep Assist Hill Descent Control Traffic Jam Assist Driver Attention Alert Lane Departure Warning Lane Centring Assist. A drive mode selector with four settings: Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow, and a steering mode adjuster with three settings: Normal, Comfort and Sport, rounds the Luxury off. Taking the step-up to the Super Luxury bring the mentioned electric tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats with the passenger's chair now being electric, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Door Alert and Automatic Reverse Braking. At the line-up's summit, the Ultra Luxury gets Automatic Park Assist, a nine-speaker sound system and a Head-Up Display. More powerful petrol, same hybrid Out on the launch route, which started and ended in Stellenbosch and included Franschhoek via the renowned pass of the same name, only the conventional petrol variant could be sampled in Luxury guise. As before, GWM has retained the 2.0 T-GDI and HEV powertrains, but with an increase in power and torque for the former from 150kW/320Nm to the same 170kW/380Nm as the H7. Also new is the nine-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which replaces the previous seven-speed, while four-wheel-drive can be had as an option on the Luxury and as the sole choice for the Ultra Luxury. Adding the all-paw system brings an additional two driving modes: Sand and Off-Road. With drive going to the front wheels only, the self-charging HEV once again combines a 1.5l turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack for unchanged outputs of 179kW/530Nm. The only transmission is a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), and while the petrol will consume unleaded at a rate of 7.4l/100km or 8.3l/100km in the case of the 4WD, the HEV will do so at a claimed 5.1l/100km. Worth noting is that the HEV has run-flat tyres and no spare due to the battery pack underneath the boot board, and the same drive modes as the front-wheel-drive petrol. The drive The first leg of the journey involved the 4WD and despite the irritation of the audio system, it felt sure-footed, refined, comfortable and with a smooth ride that ironed-out the odd imperfection with ease. Heading up the pass was somewhat different, and while no H6 buyer would, admittedly, embark on a full-throttle assault, selecting Sport mode and giving it the maximum came with flustered shifting from the transmission on downshifts. That being said, it is an otherwise slick setup in everyday conditions, although the addition of paddle shifters would have been welcomed. In between, a brief moment to sample the H6 GT involved only the new plug-in hybrid variant, though a more in-depth report will only be made once it arrives on test. The second half of the route from Franschhoek back to Stellenbosch took place in the front-wheel-drive, which featured the typical Chinese vehicle throttle calibration issue not found on the 4WD. Not as confidence inspiring as the all-paw H6, the front-wheel-drive still felt comfortable and refined, but will require finessing or at best, small driving style changes to negate wheelspin on take-off as a result of the throttle and gearbox mapping disconnect. Conclusion A key model for GWM Haval, the updates to the H6 come as a welcome addition to an already well-appointed, if now ageing, model. However, with sales for the year standing at 1 426 units, and with a price tag still below R500 000, but with more specification and tech included, expect the H6 to remain a runaway success at a price tough to beat. Price All H6's price tags include a seven-year/200 000km warranty, a seven-year/75 000km service and, in the case of the HEV, an eight-year/150 000 km battery warranty. H6 2.0 T-GDI Luxury DCT – R495 500 H6 2.0 T-GDI Luxury 4WD DCT – R574 500 H6 2.0 T-GDI Super Luxury DCT – R542 500 H6 2.0 T-GDI Ultra Luxury 4WD DCT – R614 500 H6 HEV Luxury DHT – R641 500 H6 HEV Ultra Luxury DHT – R686 500 This article first appeared in The Citizen. Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
