By Otsile Kadiege

A week after launching the sporty Jolion S, Haval South Africa is adding yet another model derivative to the Jolion range. Meet the new Jolion HEV. It’s the hybrid version of the popular compact SUV and it should consume significantly less fuel compared to non-hybrid Jolions. Haval also gave the Jolion a unique exterior look and it’s available in two grades with a generous amount of standard equipment.

Jolion HEV exterior

Outside, the Jolion HEV sets itself apart from the rest of the range with a unique front end accentuated by by LED Premium Vision headlights and fog lights that now feature blue accents, a standout diamond front grille, a redesigned front bumper, silver roof rails that mimic its natural lines, flared rear brake lights, a sporty rear diffuser and dual vent rear spoilers. In profile, the Jolion HEV is shod with either 17- or 18-inch sports alloy wheels, depending on the specification grade.

Jolion HEV interior

Like other non-hybrid Jolions, the interior offers ample legroom for all passengers and generous boot space. Heated front seats, a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a four-way mechanically adjustable front passenger seat ensure optimum comfort. Premium, soft touch materials and a sophisticated, modern design create a cabin that leaves nothing to be desired.

Jolion HEV Luxury and Super Luxury grades

The Jolion HEV is available in Luxury and Super Luxury variants, both of which offer equal measures of styling superiority and high levels of specification.

Smart keyless entry with push button start, a panoramic sunroof that adds space and dimension to the already roomy cabin, a seven-inch colour instrument cluster and wireless charging are standard on both Luxury and Super Luxury models. Luxury models feature a soft-to-the-touch 10.25-inch Multimedia Touch Display. Super Luxury derivatives feature 12.3-inch Multimedia Touch Display and a Head-Up Display.

Jolion HEV safety and driver assistance systems

All Jolion HEV models feature an Electronic Stability System, Traction Control, ABS and EBD. Passenger safety is ensured thanks to dual front, side and curtain airbags. All models are also fitted with Anti-Roll System and Secondary Collision Mitigation, Uphill and Downhill Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Rear Parking Sensors.

In addition, the Jolion HEV Super Luxury features a 360-degree panoramic camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist and Intelligent Turning Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Intelligent Dodge (smart collision avoidance system), Rear Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking.

Jolion HEV performance

The Jolion HEV features a 1.5-litre hybrid drivetrain that combines a petrol engine with an electric motor. A Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) combines the outputs of the internal combustion engine and the hybrid system, resulting in a total power output of 140kW and 375Nm. Unique for this segment and for hybrid vehicles is a performance inspired launch control system that facilitates rapid acceleration from standstill. Haval claims the Jolion HEV will consume as little as 5.0l/100km.

The driver is also able to tailor the power delivery experience via a variety of driving modes including Standard, Eco, Sports and Snow. Steering wheel feel is customisable thanks to three Dynamic Adjustable Steering Modes.

Pricing and warranty

Pricing for the Haval Jolion HEV Luxury is R549,950 and R579,950 for the top-spec Jolion HEV Super Luxury. The Jolion HEV is sold with a 5 year/ 60 000km service plan, a 5 year/100 000km warranty and an 8 year/150 000km hybrid battery warranty.