Haval, an SUV-focused brand of Great Wall Motors, launched the new generation of the H5 in China. The new ICE-powered model has a significantly larger footprint compared to its predecessor, jumping into the full-size SUV segment. Furthermore, the surprisingly low starting price of ¥122,800 ($16,830) makes it the cheapest of its kind.
The SUV shares its ladder-frame underpinnings with Great Wall’s King Kong Cannon, something that explains the strong visual references to the pickup. The mechanically-related models have similar front ends and sculpted fenders but the SUV adopts a different chrome-infused grille, round wheel arches, and a closed rear section.
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As reported by Car News China, the Haval H5 measures 5,190 mm (204.3 inches) long, 1,905 mm (75 inches) wide, and 1,833 mm (72.2 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 3,140 mm (123.6 inches). This means that the SUV is only 96 mm (3.8 inches) shorter than the US-spec Toyota Sequoia and a full 540 mm (21.3 inches) longer than the outgoing H5.
Powertrain options include a petrol and a diesel engine. The turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol produces 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) or 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS), while the turbodiesel makes a less impressive 164 hp (122 kW / 166 PS). Haval offers the SUV with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels in the standard version, but there is a 4WD system for higher-spec trims.
Despite the generous dimensions, the Haval H5 is only available with a 5-seater layout. This is strange as the Haval H9, which is shorter in length, comes in both 5-seater and 7-seater variants. In any case, there is plenty of room for activities, with the boot growing to a massive 2,116 lt (74.7 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded. This means that the cabin can be converted into a living area for camping as highlighted in the press shots.
The dashboard looks similar to the King Kong Cannon but features like the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, the faux leather upholstery, and the aluminum-style accents make it more premium than the pickup.
Speaking of the equipment, Autohome reports that the entry-level RWD trim of the Haval H5 with the ¥122,800 ($16,830) price tag comes without a touchscreen, only front airbags, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a 4-speaker audio.
The high-spec trim priced at ¥157,800 ($21,633) is a more sensible choice as it comes standard with 4WD, the 12.3-inch display, OTA updates, exterior cameras, and a 6-speaker audio. For those who want the best-equipped H5 money can buy, the various optional packages increase price to ¥167,800 ($23,004) while adding Level 2-ready ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a rear axle differential lock which can come in handy off-road.
It is not clear if Haval will offer the H5 in other markets outside China but the model is already available in its home market with deliveries expected to start soon.
