Haval Malaysia is previewing the seven-seat H9 SUV
ahead of an official introduction scheduled towards Q4 2018. Initially, fully
imported (CBU) units of the model will be offered with indicative pricing below
the RM 200,000 mark. Later on, locally-assembled (CKD) units are estimated to be
introduced during Q2 2019.
Also on preview here is the five-seat H8 SUV,
although the company hasn’t confirmed if it plans to bring in the model, and is
merely displaying it to gauge the public’s interest. Focusing on the H9 first,
the SUV will be available in two variants – Luxury and Ultra – along with a
choice of five exterior colours – Alaskan White, Ebony, Sleek Silver, Kakadu
and Bronze.
Motivations is provided by a GW4C20 2.0 litre
turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that serves up 215 hp at 5,500 rpm and
324 Nm of torque at 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. The mill is paired with an eight-speed
automatic transmission as well as a four-wheel drive system with various modes
(Auto, 2H, 4H and 4L).
In terms of dimensions, the H9 measures 4,856 mm
long, 1,926 mm wide and 1,900 tall – the wheelbase spans 2,800 mm. As a
comparison, the Fortuner (also a seven-seater) is 4,795 mm long, 1,855 mm wide
and 1,835 mm tall with a 2,745 mm wheelbase.
On this particular unit, the equipment list includes
automatic xenon projector headlamps, 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels with 265/60
series tyres, a reverse camera, leather upholstery, electronic parking brake,
eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a sunroof and automatic
air-conditioning.
As for safety gear, there’s six airbags, Electronic
Stability Program (ESP) system by Bosch, Hill Descent and Ascent Control,
anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), tyre
pressure monitor system and Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS).
Turning our attention to the H8, the five-seat SUV
is smaller in size compared to the H9, measuring 4,806 mm long, 1,975 mm wide
and 1,794 mm tall and has a 2,915 mm wheelbase. In Australia, the model is
available with a 2.0 litre turbo four-pot that makes 215 hp and 324 Nm, paired
with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
This example comes with 19-inch wheels (255/50
series tyres), automatic xenon headlamps, a reverse camera, leather upholstery,
faux wood trim, touchscreen infotainment unit and front fog lamps.
