GWM has confirmed the launch date for the new Haval H7 in South Africa. Here’s when the next generation will arrive in our market.
GWM’s local arm has revealed when the new Haval H7 will make its official South African debut. Although local pricing and specifications have yet to be announced, the Chinese automaker has confirmed the powertrain lineup. The next H7 will be offered with three powertrain options: internal combustion (ICE), traditional hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
From what we understand, the ICE variant could retain the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine used in the outgoing H7, which we evaluated for a road test in May 2025. The ICE unit produces 170 kW and 380 N.m of torque – the latter delivered to the road via either a front- or four-wheel drivetrain coupled with a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission. Whether the ICE-only new H7 will be offered with 4WD remains unconfirmed.
The HEV pairs a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined system output of 182 kW and 540 N.m of torque – increases of 3 kW and 10 N.m over the outgoing HEV variant. The electric motor sources energy from a 1.53 kWh battery.
The PHEV powertrain – GWM’s Hi4 (Hybrid Intelligent 4-wheel drive) arrangement – comprises a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-pot and a duo of electric motors, sited on the front and rear axles, respectively. The PHEV system produces combined power and torque outputs of 330 kW and 660 N.m.
The H7 measures 4 912 mm long and 1 950 mm wide, making it 127 mm longer yet 56 mm narrower than the Jetour T2. The Haval stands 1 905 mm tall, with a 2 850 mm wheelbase. GWM quotes 221 mm of ground clearance and a 580 mm water-fording depth.
While the equipment list has yet to be revealed, we know the H7 will be available with items such as a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 50 W wireless smartphone charging tray, electrically adjustable front seats with heating, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the fitment of some of these items will likely depend on the trim grade.
Haval H7 launch date in South Africa
GWM has confirmed the H7 will launch in South Africa on 22 October. While the firm has yet to reveal local pricing for the ICE and PHEV versions, it has listed the HEV variant’s starting price – from R624 900. We expect the ICE and PHEV derivatives will be less and more expensive than the HEV, respectively.
