Haval H6 GT arrival imminent

GWM HAVAL Australia has confirmed that it will introduce the coupe-styled GT version of its H6 medium SUV range next month. Shipments of the H6 GT “are currently on water and making their way to (local) ports,” the company said.

In January, the Chinese importer announced that examples of the H6 GT – known as the H6 S in its home market – were in Australia for testing and validation prior to its local introduction in the second quarter of 2022.

Although the model’s local arrival was delayed as a result of global supply chain restrictions, GWM Haval was able to commence mass production of the H6 GT during May. 

The company has yet to unveil pricing for its H6 GT, which will join the Haval SUV line-up in July, but it is expected that the new model will stay close to the sticker price of the remaining range.

In addition to significant styling and body changes at the rear – which includes a coupe-like roofline, dual spoilers and twin exhaust ends – the H6 GT’s front end features a more aggressive design with a wider grille complemented by an air intake at the lower end of the bonnet.

The wheelbase of the H6 GT matches that of the regular H6 (2738mm), but all other dimensions are increased… The new variant measures 4727mm in length (+74mm), 1940mm in width (+54mm) and 1729mm in height (+5mm).

Under the bonnet, the H6 GT features the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission combination found in other H6 derivatives.

The engine produces 150kW and 320Nm and is expected to offer similar fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures as the rest of the range (9.8L/100 km and 225g/km respectively).

The Chinese brand’s sporty model is expected to feature Brembo brakes and Michelin tyres, while its interior will be equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that “sits atop the beautifully crafted, dual-tier dash panel, as well as H6 GT- embroidered and heated Comfort Tek leather seats,” GWM Haval Australia said.

The H6 GT will carry over the donor model’s comprehensive safety features, including autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist and lane-departure warning.

The Haval H6 is unrated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) but scored a five-star C-NCAP result in its home market of China.

All GWM Haval models come with a seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, five years’ roadside assist and five years’ capped-price servicing.

“With H6 sales at record levels, the H6 GT is expected to be a popular addition by appealing to those who want a sportier SUV experience while maintaining the space and functionality offered by a more traditional SUV,” the importer said in a statement.

Whereas BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer coupe-inspired medium SUVs in the shapes of the X4 and GLC Coupe, the H6 GT will be the first example of a such-styled model from a mainstream brand.

The model’s “build quality, plus fit and finish reflect GWMs world class manufacturing facilities and processes (and) the company’s ongoing commitment to developing premium products,” it added.

Further details, pricing and specifications of the H6 GT line-up will be disclosed soon.