GWM gives first hints of new Haval Raptor-based H7
Buyers will the option of either a normal petrol engine, a self-charging HEV hybrid or a plug-in hybrid under the Hi4 banner.
Great Wall Motors (GWM) South Africa has begun unveiling details of the upcoming Haval H7, set to launch soon in the market. The new model replaces the current H7, which was based on the Haval Big Dog. The H7 now uses the Haval Raptor as its foundation, which went on sale in China in April as the Raptor Menglong Plus. The H7 can be pre-ordered from all GWM dealerships, although the final pricing has not been announced yet.
The H7 offers three engine options: petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The hybrid variant is based on the Australian version, featuring a 1.5 T-GDI engine and a more powerful 1.53-kWh battery pack. This combination results in an increased output of 182kW/670Nm. The plug-in hybrid version, on the other hand, combines the same petrol engine with a 33.7-kWh battery pack, making the H7 all-wheel drive. This setup generates 320kW/750Nm, providing an all-electric range of 137 km and a combined range of 844 km.
For the conventional petrol engine, the H7 will likely retain the outgoing model's 2.0 T-GDI engine, similar to the powertrain available for the Raptor in China. However, the power and torque figures may match those of the upcoming petrol-only H7 sibling. The H7 is expected to continue using the nine-speed automatic gearbox, although it is unclear if the new combustion engine version will also offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options.
The H7's dimensions are based on the Menglong Plus, measuring 4,912mm in length, 2,850mm in wheelbase, 1,905mm in height, and 1,950mm in width. These dimensions are 207mm shorter, 125mm lower, 40mm shorter in wheelbase, and 44mm narrower than the H7 derived from the Big Dog. It remains uncertain whether the new H7 will feature the same seven-seats option as the Australian model or if it will remain a five-seater only.
Pricing for the current Big Dog-derived H7 starts at R604,950 and goes up to R734,950. It is anticipated that the new H7's pricing will start lower due to the wider range of powertrain options available. The interior of the H7 will be dominated by physical switchgear and a 15.6-inch infotainment display. Pricing for the current model begins at R604,950 and reaches up to R734,950, with the new H7's stickers expected to be lower given its more extensive range of powertrain options.
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