[XNmotors News] 

The automotive world has come full circle once again, with retro boxy designs regaining popularity. Consumers are no longer fixated on low drag coefficients from sleek lines. Instead, they are gravitating toward boxy vehicles with sharp edges. Urban SUVs are now being reimagined as mud-slinging off-roaders, bringing back the simpler term: off-road vehicles!

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Design Highlights

The all-new Haval H9 boasts short front and rear overhangs combined with a long wheelbase, ensuring ample interior space. Blacked-out window trims and roof rails add a youthful vibe. In terms of dimensions, the new H9 measures 5070mm in length, 1976mm in width, and 1930mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2850mm. The model also offers electric side steps for easy entry and exit.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Paint Options

Four paint options are available: Mist White, Black Tile, Stone Blue-Gray, and Green Mountain, with the Stone Blue-Gray featuring a matte finish.

This factory-applied matte paint delivers a premium texture compared to aftermarket wraps.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Exterior: Classic features such as the externally mounted spare tire underscore the H9’s rugged off-road identity. The spare tire’s center houses the reverse camera, a strategic placement for protection and clear visibility. The rear tailgate opens sideways for added convenience. Additionally, the H9 offers 10 pre-installed modification slots, including spaces for a front winch, snorkel installation, and auxiliary fuel tank.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Interior: Amid a sea of minimalist electric vehicle interiors, the H9 feels refreshingly familiar. Its abundance of physical buttons ensures intuitive operation. The vehicle’s exterior linear design extends to the interior, featuring exposed rivets to highlight its rugged personality.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Seats are enhanced with 10mm-thick comfort foam and come with ventilation and heating functions. The standard configuration includes a five-seat layout, while a seven-seat version is available as an 8,000-yuan add-on, including:

 • Adjustable second-row seats,

 • Three-zone climate control,

 • Third-row air conditioning vents,

 • And third-row safety belts with force limiters.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Practical Features

The electric side steps can be manually controlled via the infotainment screen. This seemingly minor feature proves invaluable in tight parking spaces or when dealing with inconsiderate neighbors. Extending the side steps after parking helps protect your car door—a feature sure to resonate with car enthusiasts.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Configurations and Pricing

The main difference between the base and top-tier configurations lies in the rear axle differential lock. For urban commuting and occasional road trips, the base model, priced under 200,000 yuan, offers excellent value. However, for those seeking versatility, the top-tier version at 229,900 yuan is the ideal choice. Regardless of trim, the front axle differential lock is available as an option.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Driving Experience

Driving a rugged off-road vehicle like the H9 elicits mixed reactions—you either love it or you don’t. True to its roots, the H9 offers a classic off-road driving experience: high seating position, commanding view, and the ability to easily gauge the corners of the hood. The body and chassis are connected via rubber bushings, effectively dampening minor vibrations. This setup ensures a smooth ride even over urban potholes, allowing the vehicle to glide effortlessly through uneven terrain—a hallmark of true off-roaders.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

The ZF 8-speed transmission marks a substantial upgrade over its predecessor, delivering seamless shifts and clear logic. Whether cruising at low speeds or accelerating hard, the transmission adapts smoothly without any noticeable flaws.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

Powered by a 2.0T engine, the H9’s performance is surprisingly agile for its 2-ton weight. The engine tuning emphasizes balanced power delivery for off-road scenarios, mimicking a “traditional” large-displacement naturally aspirated engine. There are no abrupt surges or power dips, ensuring a consistent driving experience.

Image Source: HAVAL OFFICIAL

The intelligent adaptive four-wheel-drive system optimizes power distribution between the front and rear axles. On paved roads, it enhances fuel efficiency:

 • At idle or steady speeds, 100% of power goes to the rear wheels, functioning as a rear-wheel drive.

 • During gradual acceleration, up to 30% of power is allocated to the front axle.

 • At speeds exceeding 95 km/h, power is fully transferred back to the rear wheels.

Final Thoughts

When positioned within its price range, the Haval H9 faces limited competition, with its closest rival being its sibling, the Tank 300. While the Tank 300 leans more toward recreational use, the H9 offers a more traditional and versatile package. Having honed its expertise in off-road vehicles for years, Great Wall Motors has equipped the H9 with solid foundations and technology. This latest iteration leaves little room for criticism, making it a strong contender among rugged off-roaders.

As the saying in martial arts novels goes: “At the pinnacle of mastery, your only rival is yourself!”

[News Article/ XNmotors Sarah ]