Sportier Haval Jolion S now on sale

GWM Haval Australia has bolstered its small SUV line-up with the launch of the 2023 Haval Jolion S, which packs in more power and extra agility courtesy of an engine and suspension upgrade.

Priced from $36,990 drive-away, which is $3000 upstream of the Haval Jolion Ultra, the Jolion S features an uprated version of the 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine found in other (non-hybrid) models.

It produces 130kW of power and 270Nm of torque – a rise of 20kW/50Nm – and combines with the same seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, driving the front wheels only.

Other details are thin on the ground at this stage, including specifics on the mechanical changes and performance figures.

However, the Chinese car-maker says fuel economy improves by 0.6L/100km on the official combined cycle, now at 7.5L/100km.

Not stopping there, GWM Haval has matched the extra shove with a new multi-link rear suspension, which should provide improved dynamics and ride quality over the torsion beam arrangement used elsewhere in the range.

Helping it stand out from lower-tier models, the Jolion S also features Vanta-style black exterior elements with the 18-inch alloy wheels, door mirrors, roof rails, side garnishes and front and rear bumpers.

Inside, you’ll find all the usual creature comforts you’d find in a Jolion Ultra, such as a 12.3-inch infotainment system, panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, leatherette upholstery, digital instrument cluster, head-up display and dual-zone climate control.

The company says the latter adopts hard buttons to make it easier to adjust the temperature while on the move.

Headline safety equipment includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian, cyclist and crossroads detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, blind spot detection and lane change assist, forward collision warning and traffic sign recognition.

Six exterior colour options are available on the S – Hamilton White, Golden Black, Mars Red, Azure Blue, Smoke Grey and, exclusive to this model, Tropical Green.

How much does the 2023 Haval Jolion cost?
Premium – $28,490
Lux – $30,990
Ultra – $33,990
S – $36,990
Ultra hybrid – $40,990
* All prices are drive-away (including on-road costs)

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