GWM South Africa has launched a new generation of the Haval H7, with six derivatives spanning petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, priced from R554,900 to R794,900.

Image supplied
The updated SUV replaces the current H7 and introduces a boxier exterior design, expanded technology features and a choice of two- and four-wheel-drive configurations.
The range-topping plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Hi4 model produces 280kW and 670Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 5.8 seconds, according to GWM. It has a claimed electric range of 115km under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).
Six derivatives across three powertrains
The new H7 range comprises three powertrain options: a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, a 1.5-litre hybrid and a 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid.
The 2.0T petrol engine produces 170kW and 380Nm, paired with a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission. Buyers can choose front-wheel drive or a four-wheel-drive version.
The 1.5T hybrid (HEV) combines a dedicated hybrid engine with a two-speed hybrid transmission to deliver 182kW and 540Nm. GWM claims fuel consumption of 5.3 litres per 100km under NEDC testing.
The plug-in hybrid is available in two configurations. The front-wheel-drive model produces 240kW and 540Nm, with a claimed electric range of 130km. The flagship Hi4 four-wheel-drive version increases output to 280kW and 670Nm, with an electric range of 115km.
Both plug-in hybrid models support vehicle-to-load (V2L) power output of up to 6kW, allowing owners to power compatible external devices using the vehicle's battery.
Off-road equipment and cabin technology
The four-wheel-drive H7 derivatives feature a locking rear differential. The petrol 4WD model uses an electronically controlled system to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, while the Hi4 plug-in hybrid uses an electric motor to drive the rear axle.
The H7 has 210mm of ground clearance, a 580mm wading depth, a 25-degree approach angle and a 32-degree departure angle. The petrol 4WD version also offers up to nine selectable driving modes for different surfaces and conditions.
Inside, the cabin features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central touchscreen and a 9-inch head-up display. Other standard features across the range include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a wireless phone charger and a 10-speaker sound system.
Boot capacity is 586 litres with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1,404 litres with them folded. A 220V power outlet is also fitted in the boot, with output varying by powertrain.
Safety equipment includes six airbags, a 540-degree camera system and a suite of driver-assistance features covering adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.
South African pricing and warranty
The new Haval H7 is available in six derivatives, with pricing as follows:
- 2.0T Super Luxury 4x2: R554,900
- 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4x2: R594,900
- 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4x4: R654,900
- 1.5T HEV Super Luxury 4x2: R624,900
- 1.5T PHEV Super Luxury 4x2: R734,900
- 1.5T PHEV Ultra Luxury 4x4: R794,900
The range comes with a seven-year/200,000km vehicle warranty and a seven-year/75,000km service plan. Hybrid models also receive an eight-year/150,000km battery warranty, while roadside assistance is covered for seven years with unlimited mileage.
Service intervals are every 15,000km or 12 months.