Effortless performance with improved fuel consumption and emissions, make the H6 HEV a compelling alternative in the competitive midsize SUV segment writes Graham Eagle after getting acquainted with the latest Chinese newcomer in Gauteng.
Haval’s rapid growth in the SA market has undoubtedly been one of the industry success stories of recent years. While some of the early models of this SUV-only brand, might have lacked some styling flair, their high feature levels and keen pricing ensured good acceptance in a market where value for money was becoming increasingly important. By mid-2021, with a substantial dealer footprint now established, there was a clear move upmarket when the strikingly styled Jolion and new H6 were introduced. Engines were upgraded, interior finishes were taken to a new level and the latest safety features were included. Importantly, relative to the improved specification levels, pricing remains competitive, and sales volumes have increased significantly.
Maintaining this momentum, Haval recently introduced the sporty-styled GT version of the H6 and, recognising the move to vehicle electrification, has now also introduced a hybrid model. This range flagship; the Haval H6 HEV, is available in FWD only and its Ultra Luxury feature level includes a host of comforts and safety features. It is distinguished externally by sporty black 19-inch alloy wheels, a unique front bumper and grille, a sports rear spoiler and tasteful side trim running from the fender onto the front door just below the side mirrors. Targeted at buyers conscious of reducing their carbon footprint and fuel costs, but yet to be convinced that a BEV will meet their requirements, this self-charging hybrid provides an interesting and affordable alternative.
The regular 2,0-litre turbo petrol engine and 7-DCT have been replaced by a hybrid drivetrain with a 1,5-litre turbo petrol engine combined with two electric motors – one of which acts as a generator to charge the 1,76 kWh battery – and a two-speed Direct Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Depending on speed and driver demand, the system controller selects an appropriate driving mode ranging from electric only, internal combustion engine (ICE) only, or different combinations of the two, with the objective of optimising efficiency. For example, the vehicle is capable of brisk off-the-mark acceleration in electric mode but as the speed increases, the ICE will fire up to power the generator which will both recharge the battery and provide power to the motor. In addition and if required, it can also drive the wheels directly via the two-speed DHT. Claimed fuel consumption is 5,2L/100km and emissions 121 g/km of CO₂.
Related: The Haval H6 HEV has officially landed in South Africa – here is pricing!
A test drive is always the acid test as to whether a sophisticated drivetrain works as intended and the H6 was as smooth and seamless in its operation as claimed. Loadshedding and traffic back-ups limited our city and suburban driving but confirmed the initial electric-only acceleration before the ICE engaged. In most cases I suspect the ICE was only providing additional energy to the motor, as the vehicle continued to accelerate seamlessly, just as an EV does. After an extended period of stop/go traffic carried out in electric mode, the ICE started and ran at a fast idle, charging the battery. This was the only time the ICE was out of sync with the vehicle speed; at all other times it picked up revs as vehicle speed increased, confirming the completely normal driving experience. The ICE ran constantly at highway speeds, its most efficient operating range, with the additional 139 kW and 300 Nm of the electric motor providing excellent response and overtaking acceleration.
Indicated fuel consumption on our predominantly highway drive was around the 6,0L/100 km mark which could definitely be improved on without our frequent bursts of acceleration to check overtaking ability. At those speeds, both wind and road noise were impressively muted while the ICE is also particularly well isolated and has a pleasantly sporty note which doesn’t detract from the overall refined driving experience. The impression of quality extended to the textures and finishes of the materials used throughout the interior and the fact that they also seemed well-fitted, and creak and rattle-free. Driver’s instrumentation is in the form of a 10,25” screen complimented by a customisable heads-up display, while a 12,3” colour touch screen covers all infotainment functions. This includes ventilation controls, although fortunately these were permanently displayed on the default screen allowing easy adjustments without needing to access the menu. It also includes the settings for the impressive array of safety features which include lane keep steering and lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and many more.
Ride and handling were in keeping with the vehicle’s character – comfortable and composed – although I would have preferred more steering feel around the centre position while the rear suspension was prone to some thump on rebound when negotiating speedbumps.
The attractive exterior of the Haval H6 HEV combined with a spacious and tastefully styled interior and excellent feature levels have already seen the nameplate become a serious player in the midsize SUV market. The HEV drivetrain provides a significant boost in performance, with excellent driveability, and the benefit of improved economy and reduced emissions. It is undoubtedly the pick of the range and deserves serious consideration by potential buyers in the segment.
Haval H6 HEV Fast Facts
Price: R669 950
Engine: 1,5-litre, inline-four turbo petrol + electric motor
Transmission: 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission
Power: 179 kW
Torque: 530 N.m
0-100 km/h: 8,5 seconds*
Top speed: 180 km/h*
Fuel consumption: 5,2 L/100 km*
CO2 emissions: 121 g/km*
Rivals: Toyota RAV4 2,5 Hybrid VX E-Four
*Claimed figures
