Haval H9 adds power, drops price

Haval has updated its flagship H9 seven-seat SUV line-up for 2018.

Despite offering more power, improved safety technology and better fuel economy, the H9 is now cheaper than its predecessor to the tune of $5500. It's the second time Haval Australia has adjusted down the pricing of its H9 since launching the model locally in late 2015.

The repositioned range sees H9 LUX (from $40,990 plus on-road costs) replace the outgoing Premium to become the new entry-grade variant. It is topped by the H9 Ultra ($44,990 plus ORCs) which now supersedes the exiting LUX. From launch (Jan 26), the two-variant line-up will offer drive-away pricing of $41,990 and $45,990 respectively.

"We've worked very hard to deliver a seven-seat SUV that delivers for Australian families at the best possible price," said Haval Motors Australia chief marketing office, Tim Smith.

"At $40,990 for the LUX model and $44,990 for the Ultra, we're very confident we have made a compelling argument for Australian families to test drive the new Haval H9. To sweeten the deal, we will launch with drive-away pricing of just $41,990 for the LUX and $45,990 for the Ultra."

Power from the sole 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine offering increases 20kW/26Nm to 180kW/350Nm by way of increased compression, addressing a much-noted criticism of the outgoing H9 range.

Concerns surrounding the vehicle's ride and steering are improved by an Australian-tuned suspension and steering package developed in conjunction with off-road specialists Ironman 4X4. Changes include heavier springs, upgraded shock absorber valving and minor changes to toe-in.

Fuel economy falls 10 per cent, idle-stop technology and a new eight-speed ZF-sourced 8HP70 automatic transmission attributing to a combined claim of 10.9L/100km (on premium 95 RON unleaded). The claim gives the H9 a theoretical cruising range of just over 700km.

Haval says the H9 will accelerate 0-100km/h in 10.8sec.

The H9 now also receives Haval's All-Terrain Control System (ATCS) on both model grades. The four-wheel drive control system allows drivers to select from six pre-set modes - Auto, Sand, Snow, Mud, 4L and Sport - to adapt traction to the prevailing conditions. The H9 is fitted with a BorgWarner dual-range transfer case carried over from the previous model.

"ACTS means customers can choose the mode to suit their driving and safely tackle any conditions they may encounter," explained Smith.

"All the technology built into the new MY18 Haval H9 means it has the performance to not only get you to some of the toughest environments, but get you back safely."

On the safety front, the updated H9 adds blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. The features join six airbags - including full-length curtain airbags - Bosch-sourced stability and traction control, driver fatigue monitoring, hill-descent control, hill-hold assist, tyre-pressure monitoring, and anti-lock brakes with brake assist.

The H9 last received a four-star ANCAP safety rating when tested in 2015.

Equipment upgrades see the H9 LUX adopt five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, Haval's all-terrain control four-wheel drive system with an Eaton electronic rear differential lock, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, and a power socket located in the centre armrest.

Up-spec H9 Ultra gains a panoramic roof, heated steering wheel, Comfort-Tek eco-leather upholstery (heated in the first and second row, and with front-row massage funtion), and an Infinity premium audio system.

The redesign of the H9 SUV sees subtle changes inside and out, including a new-look front fascia and five-slot grille. Haval says it has also reworked the lower air intake to improve air flow to the engine bay, and give the fog-lights a "more circular design".

Inside the cabin, there's a new instrument panel housing a larger TFT centre screen, digital speedo, and detailed trip computer and vehicle status info. The centre console is also slightly reworked.

The Haval H9 is rated to tow up to 2500kg (braked) and offers off-road ground clearance of 206mm. Approach, break-over and departure angles are 28, 23 and 23 degrees respectively. Water wading depth is listed at 700mm.

Now read our Local Launch Review of the 2018 Haval H9.