Performance meets practicality

ACCELERATING ferociously with all wheels doing leech impressions on the slightly damp tarmac, the big SUV slingshots forward, still accelerating by the time I have to jump on the brakes to avoid becoming one with the mountain at the end of the estate access road loaned to us for the purpose of getting a teaser impression of the new Haval H6 GT Plug-in Hybrid.

- COLIN WINDELL

Pressing on through the few corners the road allows has all the driver safety systems working in sync to ensure the grip is not lost on the slick surface, and even with some enthusiastic wheel-twirling, the Haval stays smooth and steady with hardly a hint of an unpleasant body roll.

New and refreshed

GWM South Africa has firmly planted its flag in the burgeoning new energy vehicle market, unveiling the highly anticipated Haval H6 GT Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) alongside a comprehensive refresh of its popular H6 SUV range. This double launch signals a significant push by the brand into electrified performance and refined family motoring, tailored for South African roads and lifestyles.

The headline act is undoubtedly the new H6 GT PHEV, a coupé-styled SUV offering a potent blend of excitement and efficiency. At its core lies an advanced petrol-electric drivetrain churning out a combined 321kW and 762Nm of torque. This translates to a brisk 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 4,9 seconds figures placing it firmly in sports car territory.

Practical

Yet, underpinned by GWM’s intelligent hybrid architecture, the GT PHEV counters this performance with remarkable practicality, offering drivers the potential for up to 1,000 km of combined range on a single charge and tank of fuel.

Crucially, it can cover up to 180 km using electric power alone, perfect for daily commutes, while the petrol engine provides flexible back-up for longer journeys.

Exterior and interior

Visually, the GT PHEV commands attention. It boasts a bold, intricately patterned front grille flanked by distinctive LED daytime running lights, sculpted wheel arches, a sporty sloping roofline and unique alloy rims.