By Otsile Kadiege

We recently spent time with Haval’s new H7, a new five-seater SUV that aims to blend rugged utility with premium comfort. Positioned above the H6 in the Haval lineup, the H7 brings bold styling, modern tech, and real off-road credentials to the table.

Haval H7 exterior design and styling

At first glance, the Haval H7 makes a strong visual statement with its aggressive and chunky design. It features Defender-inspired full-LED headlights, muscular wheel arches, and 19-inch alloy wheels that fill the arches quite nicely. The H7 also rides high off the ground with a respectable 210mm ground clearance, enhancing both presence and practicality for light off-road excursions. Functional roof rails add utility, while round LED taillights complete the tough, squared-off rear design.

Haval H7 interior design, technology and practicality

The cabin of the H7 is a balanced mix of rugged appeal and premium features. The dashboard is anchored by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Our test unit had heated and cooled leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a cargo area rated at 483 litres. There are also two USB ports for rear passengers, contributing to a well-rounded tech offering. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high quality, and second-row passengers will enjoy generous space.

Safety and advanced driver assistance features

Standard safety features include six airbags and seatbelt 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.

Performance

Under the bonnet lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 170kW and 380Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission and a capable 4WD system with multiple drive modes. On paper, the H7 offers the performance expected of a modern family SUV with some adventurous DNA.

Driving Impressions

On the road, the H7 impressed us with its smooth ride quality and well-insulated cabin. It performs confidently on highways and handles gravel roads with ease. The suspension setup is commendable, absorbing bumps effectively whether you’re cruising around town or tackling light trails.

That said, there are some quirks. Throttle response could use some refinement as the mapping feels slightly laggy in certain drive modes. The advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), while extensive, can feel overly intrusive, though some can thankfully be turned off. One disappointment was the wired Apple CarPlay, which proved glitchy during our test. Additionally, the sound system occasionally lowered volume without user input — a bug we hope will be resolved in future software updates. Fuel consumption averaged around 10.0L/100km, which is fair considering the vehicle’s size and power output. If that’s a deal-breaker then we suggest waiting for the HEV derivative which promises significantly better fuel consumption and fuel range.

Pricing and warranty

The Haval H7 range kicks off at R601,950, making it a competitive offering in the mid-size SUV segment.

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.