The HAVAL H6 HEV is actually really good
Motor manufacturers are focusing all of their attention on alternative energy solutions. Electric vehicles seem to be the flavour of the day at the moment but for some, the current range offered by a fully electric vehicle is just not sufficient. A Hybrid Electric Vehicle or HEV offers both an internal combustion engine and a battery back which allows for extended driving distance while benefiting overall fuel consumption. HAVAL has just entered its H6 HEV into the game. Here is what you need to know.
On the outside, every feature, from the LED Headlights and Gloss Black Accents to the Sports Rear Spoiler and Panoramic Sunroof, lets you know that the All-New HAVAL H6 HEV is here to drive you into a smart new world. Signature 19 inch Sports Alloy Wheels, a pronounced front grille, and confident curves set the tone for the start of a new era of innovation.
With the driver and passenger always in mind, the All-New H6 HAVAL HEV interior is all comfort and no compromise. Step into futuristic luxury with Smart Keyless Entry, a modern 10.25 Inch Colour Combination Instrument, 12.3” Colour Multi-Touch Screen, and customisable Head-Up Display.
The All-New H6 HAVAL HEV is all about smart safety featuring 7 Airbags, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, and a 360-Degree Camera with a Panoramic View. Like a personal valet, the All-New H6 HAVAL HEV is the first local HAVAL SUV to have a Fully Automatic Parking System for smart, convenient parking.
Powering this efficient performer is a responsive 1.5 Turbo Petrol Hybrid engine that generates 179kW and a potent 530Nm of torque. When it comes to a smooth and quiet driving experience, you can thank the advanced 2-Speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, which manages the impressive torque launch.
Out on the road the H6 HEV offers a very compliant ride quality and the change over between the engine and electric motor is seamless. At lower speeds, such as in shopping mall parking lots and housing complex estates the battery does a decent job of propelling the vehicle. Pull away from the lights and it is the battery that gets you going. The battery assists the combustion engine when power is needed as well, making it work less, thus, returning decent fuel consumption. I found the H6 HEV to be rather efficient, if driven as it should. Once you start abusing the impressive performance figures, that's when it starts to get thirsty.
Overall if you consider where HAVAL was just 2 years ago and where they are today it is easy to see why they are so popular. The H6 in general is a very appealing option and one which we feel should not be overlooked.
Also worth a look: the Haval Jolion Pro and the Haval H6 Gt.
FAQ
Q: What does the HAVAL H6 HEV cost in South Africa?
The HAVAL H6 HEV is priced from around R599,900 in South Africa, which puts it in premium SUV territory but still undercuts many European hybrid competitors by a decent margin.
Q: Is the HAVAL H6 HEV worth buying?
Yes, the H6 HEV offers excellent value with its 179kW hybrid powertrain, premium features like the 12.3-inch touchscreen and 360-degree camera, plus a comprehensive warranty that makes it a smart alternative to pricier German hybrids.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the HAVAL H6 HEV?
The H6 HEV achieves a claimed fuel consumption of around 5.2 litres per 100km, which is impressive for a mid-size SUV and significantly better than most petrol-only competitors in this class.
Q: How reliable is the HAVAL H6 HEV in South Africa?
HAVAL backs the H6 HEV with a 5-year/100,000km warranty plus an 8-year/160,000km hybrid battery warranty, showing confidence in reliability, though long-term data is still building as the brand establishes itself locally.
Q: What are the main competitors to the HAVAL H6 HEV?
The H6 HEV competes against the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, but undercuts most of them on price while offering similar or better equipment levels.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should definitely consider the HAVAL H6 HEV. At R599,900, it's the best hybrid SUV value in South Africa right now, packing 179kW of power, premium tech features, and impressive fuel economy into a package that costs R100,000 less than equivalent Japanese or Korean hybrids. The 5-year warranty and comprehensive safety kit make it a smart buy for families wanting hybrid efficiency without the premium price tag. Sure, HAVAL is still proving itself in SA, but this H6 HEV shows they're serious about building quality cars that deliver real value.
