By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Some cars announce themselves loudly. Others quietly win you over. The GWM H6 GTPHEV did both. It arrived with bold confidence and, a week later, left me feeling like I had lost a trusted companion.
Nothing about my week was extraordinary. It was the usual working mum routine: school runs, grocery dashes between Teams meetings, and chasing deadlines. But behind the wheel of the H6 GT, even the most ordinary moments felt elevated. I found myself looking for excuses to drive.
First impressions
The H6 GT PHEV is not a car you can ignore. In black with red accents, it leans unapologetically into its performance identity. The coupe-inspired design gives it a sense of motion even when it’s standing still, and it carries itself with a presence that feels just a little bit indulgent.
Sliding into the driver’s seat, I often felt slightly underdressed. It is that kind of car. The kind that makes a quick trip to the shops feel like an occasion. My children, usually very selective about what I drive into the school grounds, approved instantly. That alone says a lot.
On the road
In a time where fuel costs make you think twice about unnecessary trips, the H6 GTPHEV surprised me. Despite a week of what can only be described as enthusiastic driving, I never once needed to refuel.
Its plug-in hybrid setup combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering strong performance while remaining impressively efficient. It feels responsive and capable, without demanding constant attention to driving modes. I left it in Normal for most of the week and never felt like I was missing out.
What stood out most was how effortless it felt. Whether navigating busy Johannesburg roads or gliding over pothole-ridden streets, it remained composed and confident. It is a car that works with you, not against you.
Living with it
Inside, the H6 GT strikes a thoughtful balance. The cabin feels premium without being overcomplicated. Soft-touch materials, subtle detailing and the GT embossing on the seats all reinforce its identity without trying too hard.
The panoramic sunroof was a personal highlight, bringing in light and making the space feel open and inviting. It transformed even the most routine drives into something a little more enjoyable.
I also appreciated the simplicity. There are enough physical controls to make everyday use intuitive, without relying entirely on screens. It meant I could focus on driving, rather than figuring out how to operate the car.
The Takeaway
What the H6 GT PHEV does well is remind you why you enjoy driving in the first place.It proves that moving towards more efficient, electrified mobility does not have to comeat the expense of personality or excitement.
It is stylish, confident and surprisingly practical for everyday life. But more than that, itbrings a sense of ease and enjoyment that is often missing in modern cars.
By the end of the week, I realised something simple: this wasn’t just a test drive. It was a reminder that even the most routine journeys can feel special, given the right car.
