HAVAL H2 REVIEWS | MODEL 2017 – 2020
Read and compare reviews on the Haval H2 2017 – 2020 Model from top New Zealand automotive journalists on trusted websites.
SIZED RIGHT? HAVAL H2
SOURCE: AUTOCAR | YEAR: 2020 | WORDS: KYLE CASSIDY | PHOTOS: TOM GASNIER
The H2 sells in reasonable numbers here for a brand that is still a relative unknown. We take a look at the smallest member of the Haval gang.
Haval’s entry point is the H2, what most would call a compact SUV. It’s had a recent nip and tuck for 2020, but the model dates back to 2014 when it was first introduced in its home market. It’s been the firm’s biggest mover here thanks mainly to a sharp price, but it also looks quite smart, and is well specified for the money. And so it follows the Haval modus operandi of offering good value for money motoring.
As such Haval refers to its entry level model as the Premium, which goes for $23,990, while the Lux is $26,990. It’s caused a few ripples in the market segment with the likes of the Mitsubishi ASX, now up to facelift number 43, coming down to meet its tag, and the intro pricing for Seltos and Venue targeting the mid-twenties too.
The changes are minor for the new year, but the new grille and five spoke alloys give it a sportier persona, especially with the more modern looking LED headlamps on this Lux model. The touchscreen infotainment has had CarPlay added too.
The difference between the grades sees the Lux gain a full panoramic glass roof, heating elements for the front seats, electric adjust on the driver’s side, leather trim, those LEDs and auto wipers and lights. That’s on top of items like the smart key, reversing camera and parking sensors. Like all Haval products, you get a decent fit out for your cash, including a five year transferrable warranty. And this Haval has a five star crash rating from ANCAP, albeit in 2017 when they didn’t test for any active safety features, of which the H2 offers none.
China introduces Haval to NZ
SOURCE: DRIVEN | YEAR: 2017 | WORDS: DREW THOMPSON
China has given us some amazing things; the Great Wall, fireworks, Chinese food. Their food is such a winner you can head to any local takeaway and trust you are getting a decent meal at a good price.
You can also invite someone to a Chinese restaurant and they will be happy to come along. Fifty years ago, conservative Kiwis would not have been so keen, but these days we all know Chinese food is great food.
When it comes to Chinese-built vehicles, there is still a preconception about them, but brands such as Haval are trying their best to change those opinions.
The Haval brand (pronounced ‘have-ill’) is the SUV subsidiary to Great Wall Motors, a brand slightly more familiar here, though not as familiar as Korea’s Hyundai or Mazda from Japan.
Despite its relative newness here, last year Haval was the world’s fifth best-selling SUV. Admittedly nearly all of those were in China, but it’s a fair claim nonetheless.
This week I was given the Haval H6 — a 2.litre litre petrol turbo, front-wheel-drive, mid-sized SUV. It produces 145kW of power and 315Nm of torque.
It’s in the same category as Toyota’s RAV4, Mazda’s CX-5, and Hyundai’s Tuscon — but not from an Asian country we are comfortable with buying cars from just yet.
