The latest Haval H9 4×4 SUV takes on the worst driving conditions possible
We test drive the latest Haval H9 in Northern China in winter conditions. The temperature during our three-day test drive event was between -21 degrees to -27 degrees. This was Great Wall Motors (GWM) intention to show the regional and also some local Chinese media the capabilities of their range of 4×4 vehicles and for us ASEAN media, the technology and luxury in their Haval H9 which is their latest SUV.
The first Haval SUV was launched in 2014. At the time it was GWM’s largest SUV with an AWD system and body-on-frame chassis, competing with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Mitsubishi Pajero.
Now for 2025, this latest generation Haval H9 combines urban versatility with robust off-road capabilities.
So, how large is it? Well, this H9’s wheelbase is 2850 mm and measures 4859 mm in length, 1934 mm in width and 1853 mm in height.
Step inside the well executed cabin and this H9 provides a spacious and practical layout. The bright leather clad interior will have passengers admiring its detailing.
The four-spoke oval steering wheel is feature filled and there is a floating 14.6-inch infotainment screen. The aircraft inspired gear lever is large and GWM has provided numerous physical buttons focus on functionality and ease of use in the H9.
Driver comfort is well-executed with eight massage modes. The cabin’s spaciousness allows rear passengers ample headroom and legroom even when the front seats are adjusted for taller drivers. The rear luggage space provides substantial volume for extended trips.
So what’s it like on smooth tarmac? This H9 shares its powertrain with the GWM Tank 300. Powered by the same Tank 300 2.0T turbocharged engine, this luxury SUV offers light, responsive handling. The petrol fed engine produces 218 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque and it works with an 8-speed automatic transmission (8AT).
Once we get on the snow covered tracks, we appreciate the fast throttle response as the engine delivers quick, responsive feedback. This Haval H9 sits on a 2.85-meter wheelbase and chassis which is borrowed from the soon to arrive in Malaysian showrooms GWM Tank 500.
This is why it delivers a stable ride. The H9’s steering response in the slippery conditions is mostly predictable and only on thick ICE does it ‘run away’ from you. The BorgWarner four-wheel drive system and front and rear differential locks provide strong traction along our slippery journey. Despite its size, this SUV’s cornering function offers an impressive maneuvering edge in tight spots along our slippery forest trail.
With a good 22 cm of ground clearance and high-profile off-road tires, this Haval H9 easily handled off-road obstacles, maintaining a comfortable ride for the passengers. Even when we drove along some steep downhill, uneven paths, this H9’s suspension absorbed the shocks, providing a smooth drive and its firm braking system allowed us to negotiate descents in a controlled and secure manner.
