By Otsile Kadiege

GWM South Africa is kicking off the year with the launch of an brand-spanking-new vehicle – the H7. The newcomer is one of China’s popular models and it’s know as the Big Dog in the said country or Dargo in other markets. The H7 is a compact crossover SUV with rugged looks, a premium cabin with new technologies, a list of comprehensive safety features and ADAS, a powerful turbo-petrol engine with a hybridised option and an optional 4WD system to back up its off-road-ready appearance.

Powertrain and drivetrain options

Two different powertrain options will be available at the launch of the GWM Haval H7. The first engine is the award-winning 4N20A 2.0-litre turbo engine, which was designed by GWM. The engine delivers a maximum power of 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque. This engine will be offered with the choice of a 4WD or standard 2WD system, with the latter is paired with a 9-speed DCT gearbox and sends its power to the front wheels.

The second powertrain is a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a hybrid system and is paired with a unique Dual Hybrid Transmission (DHT). This system delivers combined power and torque outputs of 179 kW and 530 Nm. The hybridised H7 will only be available in 2WD only and will only be available for sale during the second-half of the year.

H7 4WD system

Under the skin, the all-wheel drive system on the HAVAL H7 is controlled by an All-Terrain Mode system. This system adjusts all the features of the vehicle, including the power settings, steering sensitivity and engine mapping to match the road conditions and driver intentions. It caters for Grass/Gravel, Convex Roads, Sand, Snow, Mud and for Sporty, Standard or Economical driving.

In addition to this system, an electronic button controls a jaw-type rear differential lock, which can be engaged at will. This, combined with a unique Off-Road Cruise Control function, effectively offers the same features as a traditional low-range system.

The GWM Haval H7 still has an impressive approach angle of 24 degrees, a departure angle of 30 degrees and a crossover angle of 19 degrees. It has a ground clearance of 210mm when fully laden.

Safety and driver assistance systems

Standard safety features include six airbags and seat-belt safety warnings on both rows of seats. All models also feature Electronic Stability Control (ESP), Traction Control (TCS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), ABS brakes with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and even Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS).

Every H7 also has Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, a USB port for linking a dash-cam, reverse radar and a full 360-degree camera system with an additional 180-degree electronically created view of the road surface beneath the vehicle for a full 560-degree view.

A full array of ADAS – Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – is featured as standard across the HAVAL H7 range.

Exterior design and styling

The design of the new H7 gives the newcomer a butch look while its styling accentuates its off-roading capabilities. Some standout features include an aggressive-looking front-end with full-LED lighting, contrasting wheel arches which house standard 19-inch wheels across the range, functional roof rails, pronounced rear haunches, another set of round-shaped LED taillights and a tailgate-mounted spoiler.

The new H7 shares the same platform with 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). Buyers have the choice of four colour options, namely Hamilton White, Sun Black, Grey and Orange.

Interior design and technology

Like many of its stablemates, the interior of the new H7 oozes modernity and luxury. Highlights include a large, floating 14.6-inch display with an infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android auto connectivity, a fully-customisable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a unique aviation-style gearshift on the centre console, integrated grab-handles for the front and rear passengers, a standard panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable front seats and full leather upholstery (synthetic leather on the Luxury model).

There’s also ample 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.

H7 derivatives, service plan and warranty

Two models of the GWM HAVAL H7 will be available from the onset.

GWM Haval H7 2.0T Luxury 9DCT – R601 950

GWM Haval H7 2.0T Super Luxury 9DCT 4WD – R671 950

Available in Q2 of this year:

GWM Haval H7 1.5T Super Luxury DHT Hybrid – R730 950

Warranty plan details:

7-year 200 000km Warranty

7-year unlimited road-side assistance

7-year/75 000km Service Plan

8-year/150 000km  Hybrid High Voltage components Warranty.