GWM has a new powerful, yet frugal, 1,5-litre turbopetrol version of the H6 SUV to its line-up. This new compact SUV should be well received in Malaysia for its looks and drivetrain and not forgetting the GWM pricing. 
The GWM H6 is perfectly aligned with the current trend of engine downsizing, the company’s new GW4G15B powerplant delivers the performance of a larger, naturally aspirated engine, but without the accompanying fuel consumption penalty. The engine delivers 105 kW at 5 600 rpm and 210 Nm of torque from 2 200 to 4 500 rpm. Power goes to the front wheels via a slick six-speed manual transmission. With a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of only 8,5 litres/100 km, the H6 1,5T rates as one of the most economical vehicles in its segment.
Exterior design
With its smooth contours, chiselled flanks and exquisite detailing, the H6 provides a distinctive and upmarket new alternative in the fiercely contested compact SUV/crossover segment. The H6 1,5T shares the flagship 2,0 TCI’s premium trim, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, full colour-coding with chrome detailing, roof rails, daylight running lamps and privacy glass. The 1,5T uniquely boasts keyless access and start, too.
Under its elegant bodywork the H6 features an all-new unibody platform that ensures superb rigidity and low levels of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). Suspension is via MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. The H6’s underpinnings have been tuned to deliver maximum occupant comfort. With a ground clearance of 180 mm when fully laden, the H6 can also confidently traverse rough roads.
Comfort and Entertainment
The H6 measures 4 640 mm in length and rides on a 2 680 mm wheelbase. These generous dimensions endow the H6 with a very spacious cabin, as well as luggage area. The driver’s seat features manual height adjustment, while the rear bench boasts a reclining backrest. The rear seats are split 60:40 and can tumble forward to transform the already spacious boot into a truly cavernous utility area. The boot itself features a handy secondary shelf (removable) to help organise luggage. A full-size spare wheel is located underneath the boot floor.
From the driver’s seat, the emphasis on maximum ergonomic efficiency is obvious. The leather-trimmed steering wheel is adjustable for both rake and reach, the facia-mounted gearlever falls easily to hand and there are fold-out armrests for both front seats. The H6’s interior is finished in upmarket black, with satin silver accents further contributing to the sophisticated ambience. Leather and soft-touch surfaces also appear on the doors.
The crowning jewel of the H6’s standard features list is its comprehensive info-tainment system. A full-colour touch-screen system is mounted in the centre of the facia within easy reach, and features radio/CD/DVD/MP3 playback. It is further supported by a mini-SD slot (below the screen), and USB and auxiliary ports mounted in the storage box between the seats. The system features Bluetooth integration, and can be remotely controlled via buttons mounted on the steering wheel. When reverse gear is selected, the screen displays a feed from the rear-mounted camera, aiding in parking manoeuvres. An audible warning system is also activated when reversing.
Other standard features include climate control, power steering, cruise control, electric windows all-round, electric mirror adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights with manual levelling, among others.
Safety and Security
The H6’s high-strength body has been designed to meet global safety requirements. The H6 achieved a maximum five-star rating in China’s stringent C-NCAP crash testing regime. It features dual front SRS airbags, disc brakes all-round, ABS with EBD (electronic brake force distribution) and BAS (brake assist). Isofix child seat mounts provide the safest possible anchorage points for child seats. Tyre pressure monitors are also standard and the rear park sensors (with camera view) limit the chances of parking scrapes. Security is provided by a standard alarm and immobiliser, with the further convenience of remote central locking (in addition to keyless access).
