Discover the new Haval H6 GT PHEV: Performance meets practicality

Accelerating ferociously with all wheels doing leech impressions on the slightly damp tarmac, the big SUV slingshots forward, still accelerating by the time I have to jump on the brakes to avoid becoming one with the mountain at the end of the estate access road loaned to us for the purpose of getting a teaser impression of the new Haval H6 GT Plug-in Hybrid.

Pressing on through the few corners the road allows has all the driver safety systems working in sync to ensure the grip is not lost on the slick surface, and even with some enthusiastic wheel-twirling, the Haval stays smooth and steady with hardly a hint of unpleasant body roll.

New and refreshed

GWM South Africa has firmly planted its flag in the burgeoning new energy vehicle market, unveiling the highly anticipated Haval H6 GT Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) alongside a comprehensive refresh of its popular H6 SUV range. This double launch signals a significant push by the brand into electrified performance and refined family motoring, tailored for South African roads and lifestyles.

The headline act is undoubtedly the new H6 GT PHEV, a coupé-styled SUV offering a potent blend of excitement and efficiency. At its core lies an advanced petrol-electric drivetrain churning out a combined 321kW and 762Nm of torque. This translates to a brisk 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 4,9 seconds – figures placing it firmly in sports car territory.

Practical

Yet, underpinned by GWM’s intelligent hybrid architecture, the GT PHEV counters this performance with remarkable practicality, offering drivers the potential for up to 1,000 km of combined range on a single charge and tank of fuel. Crucially, it can cover up to 180 km using electric power alone, perfect for daily commutes, while the petrol engine provides flexible backup for longer journeys.

Exterior and interior

Visually, the GT PHEV commands attention. It boasts a bold, intricately patterned front grille flanked by distinctive LED daytime running lights, sculpted wheel arches, a sporty sloping roofline and unique alloy rims. The athletic theme continues inside with bolstered sport seats featuring heating and ventilation up front, dual-zone climate control, a dynamic dashboard layout, premium finishes and ambient lighting, all focused on combining driver engagement with comfort.

Technology

Technology is a major highlight. A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes centre stage, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Wireless charging keeps devices topped up, while a customisable digital instrument cluster keeps key data in sight. 

Drivers can control numerous functions, including the panoramic sunroof and climate settings, via the intuitive ‘Hello GWM’ voice command system. Selectable driving modes – Standard, ECO, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, and 4WD – coupled with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension setup and intelligent 4WD system, ensure confident handling across diverse conditions. A hands-free powered boot lid adds everyday convenience.

Safety

Safety remains paramount, with the GT PHEV boasting a full 5-Star ANCAP safety rating. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Jam Assistance, Intelligent Cornering Control, a 360-degree HD camera system, Automatic Emergency Braking and Pre-Collision Warning.

Updated H6

Alongside the GT PHEV, GWM has introduced a significantly updated H6 SUV range, aiming to strengthen its position in the competitive family SUV segment. 

Available in both a 2,0-litre Turbo Petrol variant (170kW, 380Nm, paired with a 9-speed DCT) and a Dedicated Hybrid Technology (DHT) HEV variant (179kW, 53 Nm), the new H6 offers refined power and enhanced efficiency. The HEV variant, in particular, promises ultra-quiet operation, smoother take-offs and lower fuel consumption.

Driving

Certainly out on the ‘real’ road, this proved to be true. The ICE variant is more than capable, and provides a good quality ride with the only niggle being the ‘growly’ engine under hard acceleration. Allowing the vehicle to build up speed at a more leisurely pace eliminated that and hardly detracted from the overall forward momentum.

The Hybrid, with that initial instant power overcame any level of reservation, returning a very high level of drive quality, along with the bonus of additional fuel saving.

The refreshed H6 features a more imposing front end with an assertive grille and new headlamp design, complemented by 19-inch alloy wheels and sleek LED taillights. Inside, drivers are greeted by a simplified, tech-focused cabin featuring a large 14.6-inch multi-point touchscreen (with wireless smartphone integration), a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, voice command, a head-up display, ventilated and heated front seats, ambient lighting and a column-mounted gear shifter.

Generous storage (up to 30 spaces) and a 560-litre boot (expandable) cater to family needs. Safety is bolstered by features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a class-leading 540° Panoramic Camera with Transparent Chassis View, also securing a 5-Star ANCAP rating.

Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operations Officer of GWM South Africa, hailed the GT PHEV as “a breakthrough in performance and practicality”, stating it “brings together the best of all worlds ... stylish, smart and exhilarating”.

Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing, emphasised the H6's evolution: “The new H6 is for drivers who want more from their SUV – more control, more capability, and more confidence ... We’ve combined global craftsmanship with local insight.”

Pricing and warranty

The refreshed H6 SUV range starts at R495,500 for the 2.0T Luxury Line 2WD. The H6 HEV Hybrid starts at R641,500. The performance-focused H6 GT PHEV is priced at R799,000.

All models are backed by a substantial seven-year / 200,000 km vehicle warranty, seven-year unlimited kilometre roadside assistance, and a five-year / 75,000 km service plan. Crucially, the high-voltage system in hybrid and PHEV models, including the battery, is covered by an eight-year / 150,000 km warranty, and all warranties are transferable to subsequent owners.

With this expanded and electrified H6 lineup, featuring competitive pricing and strong warranties, GWM South Africa is positioning itself as a key player in the country’s transition towards more efficient and technologically advanced motoring.