Welcome to the exploration of the all-new 2025 Haval H7! In this review, we’ll take you through an in-depth analysis of the Haval H7, starting with its off-road performance on muddy terrain, examining the impressive 2.0L turbo petrol engine, and exploring its luxurious interior. We’ll also discuss its fuel efficiency, practicality, and overall cost of ownership. Let’s dive right in!
Pros:
✅ Powerful 2.0L turbo engine with 170 kW and smooth 9-speed dual-clutch transmission
✅ Premium interior with excellent build quality and features (14.6-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof)
✅ Advanced safety features: adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane-keeping assist
✅ Excellent off-road capabilities with terrain response systems and off-road cruise control
✅ Generous warranty (7 years/200,000 km) and service plan (7 years/75,000 km)
Cons:
❌ High fuel consumption (11.3L/100km during launch)
❌ Bold exterior design may not appeal to everyone
❌ Still lacks a hybrid option at launch
First Impressions
The Haval H7 made its debut at Kton Park, where we started the day with a convoy to Pretoria. The design of the H7 immediately grabs attention. Whether you love or dislike its bold styling, its mix of elements reminiscent of the Jeep Renegade and Toyota FJ Cruiser ensures it stands out. Let us know in the comments what your first impressions of the design are!
Haval offers three versions of the H7:
- Entry-level 4×2
- Mid-range 4×4 (our test model)
- Upcoming hybrid model
For this review, our focus is on the 4×4 variant equipped with a robust 2.0L turbo petrol engine.
Engine and Driving Dynamics
The Haval H7 is powered by a 2.0L turbo petrol engine delivering an impressive 170 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque, paired with a smooth 9-speed dual-clutch transmission. This combination ensures seamless gear changes and a comfortable driving experience, free from the usual miscommunication issues found in some other models.
The suspension system is well-tuned, offering a balanced ride even on rough terrain. However, one drawback is its fuel consumption, averaging 11.3L/100km during the launch. While the engine is still breaking in and test drives are rarely economical, this figure is relatively high. We hope real-world usage yields better results.
Safety and Technology
The H7 comes packed with advanced safety and driver-assistance features, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
The 4×4 model also boasts off-road capabilities, including terrain response systems and off-road cruise control, making it an excellent choice for adventure enthusiasts.
Luxury Meets Practicality
Stepping inside the H7, the first thing that stands out is the build quality. The interior feels premium, with a modern design borrowing elements from the Tank 300. Highlights include:
- 14.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Head-up display
- Heated and ventilated seats with full electrical adjustment
- Panoramic sunroof
- Physical buttons for air conditioning—a welcome touch of practicality
Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, privacy curtains, and a flat floor, making it family-friendly. The boot space is generous, complete with a fire extinguisher (a standard feature in many Chinese cars) and a spare wheel.
Pricing and Cost of Ownership
The Haval H7 4×4 Super Luxury is priced at 671,950 ZAR (approximately $44,500 USD). Here’s a breakdown of ownership costs in ZAR:
- Monthly finance cost: ~13,132 (over 6 years at 12% interest)
- Full tank of petrol: 1,295
- Insurance: Starting at 1,710
With a 7-year/75,000 km service plan and an industry-leading 7-year/200,000 km warranty, Haval offers significant peace of mind to buyers.
