By Mabuyane Mabuza | Photo credit: 3rd Eye Visuals
South African SUV buyers have more choice than ever, and manufacturers have to work harder to give them a reason to choose one model over another. Competitive pricing and generous equipment are increasingly expected. What matters now is what each new arrival adds to the mix.
For GWM/Haval, the new H7 is an opportunity to build on nearly two decades in South Africa while responding to that competition. Its rugged styling and choice of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid power suggest a brand determined to broaden its appeal.
Launched locally last week, the H7 also makes it clear that Haval has its eye on buyers considering the likes of Jetour’s T-series models.
Its boxy, rugged design will appeal to those who love adventure and want a vehicle that looks the part. There is something about this style of SUV that makes it stand out among the rounded, city-focused crossovers. It has presence and looks ready to escape the city at the slightest invitation.
Together with fellow motoring journalists, I travelled to Cape Town to get behind the wheel and experience the new H7 for myself.
My first impressions were encouraging. The H7 met my expectations on both tar and gravel. What stood out, however, was its approachable driving character. Despite its rugged appearance, it did not feel like a vehicle reserved for experienced off-road enthusiasts.
And perhaps that is precisely where its appeal lies.
Not everyone who buys an SUV wants to conquer mountain trails or navigate difficult off-road routes. Sometimes, all you want is a vehicle that can comfortably take you out of the city, handle a gravel road with confidence and make that weekend escape a little more exciting. For those of us who enjoy both urban life and the countryside, that balance matters.
Three powertrain options
The new H7 arrives with three powertrain options: turbocharged petrol, hybrid electric (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV).
The petrol-powered H7 has enough power for everyday driving and overtaking when you need it to perform; it does so with ease, changing gears automatically, leaving you to enjoy the effortless drive. You can choose the front-wheel-drive suited to everyday roads or the more advanced four-wheel-drive, which allows you to take it on more challenging off-road conditions for some adventure.
The hybrid uses petrol and electric power to help save fuel. It recharges its battery as you drive, so you do not need to worry about plugging it in.
The plug-in hybrid lets you drive on electricity alone for shorter trips, with a petrol engine available for longer journeys. You will need to charge its battery regularly to get the most out of the electric driving option.
The plug-in hybrid offers an interesting proposition for drivers who want electric power for everyday journeys while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer distances. Making the most of it will depend on access to charging and individual driving habits.
Adventure, without taking things too seriously
For me, the ideal lifestyle SUV should be comfortable enough for daily use, composed on the open road and capable of handling gravel without leaving the driver feeling out of their depth.
The H7 appears to understand that brief. My experience on tar and gravel was reassuring, and the vehicle felt well suited to motorists who want to explore beyond the city without making every outing an off-road expedition.
Of course, gravel roads vary considerably, and an ordinary gravel route should not be confused with technical off-roading. Anyone intending to tackle challenging terrain should choose the appropriate derivative and familiarise themselves with its capabilities.
Nevertheless, the H7’s appeal does not depend on being the toughest vehicle in the room. Its strength lies in making adventure feel accessible.
The Jetour question
The comparison with Jetour’s T-series models is difficult to avoid. Both brands have tapped into the appetite for SUVs with boxy proportions, rugged styling and a strong lifestyle identity. These are vehicles for buyers who want something more distinctive than a conventional family crossover.
But there is more to this contest than appearance.Pricing, engine performance, equipment, comfort, fuel consumption and after-sales support all influence purchasing decisions. The availability of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains gives H7 buyers a broader choice according to their needs and budgets.
GWM’s established local presence also counts, although buyers should still consider dealer accessibility, servicing costs and long-term ownership requirements.The H7 makes an encouraging first impression. It looks the part, feels approachable behind the wheel and offers enough variety in the range to appeal to drivers with different priorities. For those who enjoy city life but welcome a reason to get out and explore, it is worth considering.
Haval H7 pricing in South Africa
The new Haval H7 range starts at R554,900.
- Haval H7 2.0T Super Luxury 4x2: R554,900
- Haval H7 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4x2: R594,900
- Haval H7 1.5T HEV Super Luxury 4x2: R624,900
- Haval H7 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4x4: R654,900
- Haval H7 1.5T PHEV Super Luxury 4x2: R734,900
- Haval H7 1.5T PHEV Ultra Luxury 4x4: R794,900
