The new fourth-generation GWM Haval H6 compact SUV has a starting price of 98,900 yuan (13,800 USD). Since its launch on August 25, 2011, the Haval H6 has been a dominant force in China’s domestic SUV market. Over the years, it has sold over 4 million units and consistently held the top spot in SUV sales. However, recent data indicates a decline in its market position, with the H6 now falling outside the top ten and experiencing monthly sales of 5,000 to 8,000 units. Can the fourth-generation model reverse this trend and rejuvenate the H6’s sales performance? So, on this week’s Sunday China Drive, let’s head out with the new Haval H6 SUV! 

Exterior Design

Built on GWM’s L.E.M.O.N. platform, the new Haval H6 measures 4,703 mm in length, 1,886 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height, with a 2,738 mm wheelbase. This marks a 50 mm increase in size compared to its predecessor, while other dimensions remain consistent. The new model features a redesigned front end with a large grille and new headlights, a simplified rear design with new taillights, and prominent Haval branding. The exterior includes black-painted window frame trims, roof luggage racks, and rims.

The Interior

The interior of the new H6 retains much of the layout from the third-generation model but includes several notable updates. It features a 10.25-inch floating instrument panel, a 14.6-inch central control screen, and a redesigned user interface with the removal of physical buttons. The vehicle runs on Coffee OS 2.0, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, and supports Huawei HiCar 4.0. It also includes a 50W wireless charging pad, front seat heating and ventilation, and a 9-inch HUD on higher trims. Over 20 level 2 advanced driving assistance functions are available.

Storage

The 2025 GWM Haval H6 has a trunk capacity of 560 liters, expandable to 1,485 liters, with the rear seats folded down.

Driving Experience

The fourth-generation Haval H6 is surprisingly pleasant behind the wheel. The 2.0T engine delivers 175 kW (235 hp) and 385 Nm of torque, paired with a 9-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). While there’s a bit of turbo lag at the start, the 2.0T engine delivers sufficient low-end torque, making it well-suited for city driving. The mid-range acceleration feels more confident, and the 9-speed DCT provides smooth downshifts in standard mode and quicker responses in sport mode, though with occasional hesitation.

The 2.0T engine provides good acceleration and efficiency, contributing to a smooth driving experience. The 9-speed DCT shifts seamlessly, ensuring a refined ride. However, the H6’s handling and steering needs improvement. The steering feels disconnected, particularly at low speeds, affecting the vehicle’s dynamics compared to competitors.

The chassis and suspension offer a firmer setup that enhances handling while maintaining comfort for family use. The tighter suspension gives the car a more controlled feel.

Off-road, the Haval H6 performs well, maintaining stability on rough terrain. Steering improvements provide more precise feedback than the previous generation, but overall connectivity and on-road performance still require enhancement.

Safety Features

The 2025 GWM Haval H6 emphasizes safety with a range of advanced features. It has been thoroughly tested to achieve an Australian 5-Star N-Cap rating. Essential safety features include multiple airbags, advanced braking systems, and driver-assist technologies like lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition.

Dealership Experience

GWM Haval vehicles are sold through traditional dealerships, so I found one online. As usual, we booked through their official website and waited for the Haval sales rep to call. After a quick call, the Haval rep and I communicated via WeChat. Upon arriving at the dealership, we were greeted by three people. Two of them went on the test drive with us. Even after the test drive, we are unsure who to contact to ask questions. So, it was a confusing experience.

Conclusion

The new fourth-generation GWM Haval H6 compact SUV has surprised us with modernized updates. However, despite these advancements, the new Haval H6 faces EV and PHEV rivals like Aion Y and BYD Song Pro, offering superior design and performance. In recent months, the top-selling SUVs in China have all been NEVs. While the fourth-generation H6 offers incremental improvements, its success in reclaiming a leading position may need to wait until the release of its PHEV version arrives.

Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.