Sharp price for Haval's new rugged SUV

GWM has revealed pricing and specifications for its completely overhauled and hybrid-only H7 mid-size SUV range.. Arriving in two powertrains across two trim levels, the boxy SUV is a completely different model to the one it replaces.. Swapping out its basis on the Chinese-market Haval 'Big Dog' and instead opting for the larger and tougher Raptor, the H7 nameplate has scored a significant glow-up for Australia..

Offered as either a plugless hybrid (HEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), pricing starts from $46,990 for the base H7 Lux HEV, stretching to $53,990 for the Vanta PHEV.. See full pricing for the range below.. The HEV pairs a 1.5-litre engine to dual electric motors for total outputs of 182kW/670Nm, while the plug-in hybrid version ups power even further to 320kW/670Nm..

All are all-wheel drive, featuring the brand's signature Hi4 system, which features a front-mounted hybrid transmission and "enhanced" traction systems consisting of eight drive modes as well as a locking rear differential.. The large 33.7kWh battery pack in the plug-in hybrid allows up to 137km of pure EV driving range.. The brand claims the PHEV can travel up to 844km in combined driving conditions..

PHEV versions also come with a vehicle-to-load (V2L) discharging system.. The H7 sits above the more traditional H6 family mid-sizer in the brand's range, whilst also positioned below the more hardcore ladder-frame based Tank 300 in the wider GWM line-up.. Standard features on the Lux (HEV or PHEV) include:.

The Vanta grade (HEV or PHEV) adds:. All versions score the same active safety suite, and array of seven airbags, complete with adaptive cruise control.. HEV versions get black 19-inch wheels, while PHEVs get two-tone designs..

There are five colours to pick from in the H7 range including:. Mystic Grey can only be chosen on Vanta grades.. In terms of performance, the plugless hybrid variant can sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.0 seconds, while the PHEV can complete the same sprint in 4.9 seconds despite weighing in at nearly 200kg more..

All versions have an approach angle of 25 degrees, a departure angle of 32 degrees and a breakover angle of 20 degrees.. They can wade up to a depth of 580mm and the H7 is capable of towing up to 1500kg braked regardless of variant.. The SUV's swing-open tailgate with rear-mounted spare reveals a luggage capacity of 586-litres regardless of powertrain, with 1404L when the second row is folded flat..

The H7 is designed to offer a more adventurous SUV in Haval's line-up, compared to the more family-focused H6, and sporty H6GT.. At launch, the H7 is also offered with a drive-away pricing incentive, with the Lux HEV costing $45,990 D/A and the Lux PHEV priced at $49,990 drive-away.. This pricing puts the H7 up against the likes of the Subaru Outback (AWD only, from $48,990 before on-roads), Nissan X-Trail (e-Power HEV AWD from $49,080 before on-roads), or Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (AWD only, from $58,990 before on-roads)..

The H7 is part of yet another fresh product offensive from GWM as it aims for a top-five position in Australia's new car market, despite newer rivals like Chery closing in.. The brand is confident the array of choice it offers from its five sub-brands, Ora, Haval, Tank, Cannon and Wey will bolster its chances..