This all-new model is the new flagship for the HAVAL range – slotting in above the perennially popular HAVAL H6 – and it brings together two of GWM’s areas of technical mastery: luxury and off-road capability.
The all-new GWM HAVAL H7 From the first glance, it is clear that there is nothing else quite like the GWM HAVAL H7 on South African roads. The new model departs from the elegant dynamism of the Jolion, HAVAL H6 and HAVAL H6 GT and opts for a squared-off shape, round headlights, large alloy wheels in bold wheel arches and a deeply sculpted side-profile.
“The design of the all-new GWM HAVAL H7 proudly displays its capabilities. It is an SUV with enough space for a family and all their kit, with luxury to match that exceeds that of the H6 and off-road capabilities that come close to those of some of our professional 4×4 models in the GWM stable,” says Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operating Officer of GWM South Africa. Design – Superior exterior and luxury interior The new H7 shares the same platform as the H6, but in its application it has been widened (1 908mm), lengthened (4 705mm) and lifted higher off the ground (1 780mm high with a 210mm ground clearance).
All versions of the H7 ride on 19” alloy wheels with a futuristic, dual-spoke design. The wheels are housed in squared-off wheel arches with riveted over-fenders. The vehicle’s driving lights are all LED-powered, and the headlights feature unique deep-wall technology that has, to date, only been used on premium German vehicles. The headlamps and fog lamps are recessed in black surrounds on the split front bumper.
The infotainment screen is not only one of the largest of its kind in this vehicle segment, but also one of the brightest and with the densest pixel count (1920 x 1080). It features a full wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto experience, and it houses all the features and functions that one can expect from GWM.
Lower down, the centre-console is dominated by a unique aviation-style gearshift with controls for the drivetrain, terrain assist system and some of the many dynamic safety features that are standard across the range. With its focus on practicality and off-road capability, the HAVAL H7 has integrated grab handles for the front and rear passengers, doors that offer the widest opening in its segment (over one metre from head to toe for both front and rear doors), and many storage spaces that include multiple cup holders, hidden storage compartments and even a removable rear luggage floor that can double as a camping table, complete with retractable legs. The rear luggage compartment can extend from a large 483 litres to 1 362 litres with the seats folded away
While both powertrains are used in different GWM models and in different applications, the performance profile and engine management of these powertrains are unique to the H7. The first engine is the high-power HAVAL 4N20A two-litre turbo engine, which was designed by GWM and which has won the Chinese Heart Award for engine technology multiple times. The engine delivers a maximum of 170kW and 380Nm of torque, which is 6% higher than the average power output for the segment.
This engine will be offered with the choice of a 4WD or standard 2WD system, with the latter offering its power through the transmission to the front wheels. The transmission is a unique, self-developed 9-speed wet dual-clutch transmission that is smaller than the DCT transmissions that precede it. This transmission has been designed for optimal shifting comfort and high-speed efficiency and it is the first of its kind to be transversely mounted, thanks to its compact size and efficient design.
The second drivetrain configuration on offer (in 2WD only) is GWM’s Turbo-petrol Hybrid powertrain with its unique Dual Hybrid Transmission (DHT). In the H7, this system delivers combined power of 179kW and 530Nm for truly impressive acceleration and overtaking performance at the lowest possible consumption.
Off-road driving The HAVAL H7 will be offered to buyers with the choice of either two-wheel drive or four wheel drive. The latter will only be offered on the 2.0T model in Super Luxury specification. Buyers of the 4×4 model will receive a unique Off-Road Mode on their instrument cluster, which will offer a low-speed bird’s-eye view of the surroundings, as well as an AI-enhanced image of the surface below the vehicle.
“A full array of ADAS – Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – is featured as standard across the HAVAL H7 range. With many other features on offer as standard across the range, future owners can of course also count on Adaptive Intelligent Cruise Control, which will allow the driver to set a speed and leave all vehicle controls to the intelligent systems included in the HAVAL H7”, Says Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing
“The all-new H7 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for GWM South Africa. With its blend of luxury, performance and safety, it’s designed to meet the needs of modern adventurers”, Concludes Floyd Ramabulana.
