HAVAL H1

Haval H1 Overview

As the largest SUV maker in China, Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors (GWM) remains relatively unknown to the Malaysian automotive scene. The fairly new Haval brand, a subsidiary to GWM specializing in SUV manufacturing, made its official Malaysian debut back in 2014 with the introduction of Great Wall M4, a subcompact B-segment crossover SUV. Initial examples are imported directly from China before the subsequent introduction of the locally assembled variants from the company’s Gurun assembly plant in 2015.

As of early 2017, the Haval M4 is renamed as the Haval H1 in an effort to streamline its local line up (Haval H2 and Haval H9 being the only other Haval models on sale in Malaysia). The facelifted first-generation Haval H1 is available in three trims levels- Comfort, Premium and Elite, with the price tag of RM 62,000, RM 68,000 and RM 74,999 respectively.

The competitively priced subcompact SUV is set to go up against home grown rivals like the Perodua Aruz, Perodua Ativa and the Proton X50. The Haval H1 also makes a compelling case against the hugely popular Perodua Myvi with its raised ride height, ruggedly styled exterior and an industry-first 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Haval H1 Design

The Haval H1 is essentially a compact 5-door hatchback with a raised ride height. The exterior design no doubt draws inspiration from a conventional four-by-four with rugged exterior featuring black plastic claddings and silver front skid plate that mimics a metal front bumper guard commonly seen in old-school off-roader.

The front features a slim front grille with dual chrome strip which houses the red Haval badge, flanked by a pair of reflector halogen headlamp. Top of the line Elite variant adds honeycomb grille effect and poly-ellipse projector unit with light tube daytime running light.

Facelifted variant also adds a new 16-inch Y-spoke spider design rims, available exclusively on the Elite variant.  Roof rails and the side steps are fitted as standard, again showcases the utilitarian design approach to the subcompact SUV. The less than desirable wheel well space between the wheels and the fender does nothing but emphasizes its tall and disproportionately narrow design.

The rear is reminiscent of the Suzuki Swift with a more rugged edge, featuring a black plastic cladding on the lower bumper and a silver colour rear skid plate. Blacked out D-pillar combined with the rear spoiler gives that floating roof effect.

Haval H1 Dimension

The Haval H1 barely classifies as a subcompact SUV if one is to justify strictly based on its extremely compact size. The undisputed segment leader in the subcompact SUV category, the Honda HR-V, is a good 385 mm longer in overall length and has a 227 mm longer wheelbase compared to the Chinese made SUV. It is no doubt the most compactly packaged vehicle in the segment with one of the smallest physical footprints.

Haval H1 Interior

As you would imagine for a vehicle of this class, hard plastics are used extensively across the dashboard, central tunnel area and the door panels. A new android-based double-din touchscreen display dominates the centre console surrounded in gloss-black inserts.

The base Comfort variant comes fitted with fabric upholstery while Premium variant onwards get leather upholstery. Leather wrapped steering wheel on the other hand is standard across all variants.

Interior storage space is scarce. Much of it, like the cupholders for example, can only be described as an afterthought and arm rest is available only on the Elite variant. Occupant space is limited as you would imagine due to the compact size and full-size adult will be struggling at the back in long journeys.

All-round visibility is excellent thanks to the tall ride height, decently sized window glasses and a wide rear quarter window. The rear boot space available is 310 litres and expandible with the available foldable 60:40 split rear seats.

Haval H1 Features

Standard features across all variants includes the Android Double Din touchscreen unit, a trip computer, manually adjustable front seats, anti-glare rear view mirror and reverse sensors. Premium and above gets reverse camera, integrated smart tag reader and navigation while Elite variant adds digital video recorder, styled leather seats, daytime running light and tinted film.

In terms of safety, all variants come with dual front airbag, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with EBD brake assist, hill start assist and TCS draft control. It scored a total of 3 star in the ASEAN NCAP crash safety rating.

Haval H1 Driving Performance

Engine

All Haval H1 variants are powered by the same 1.5 litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, developing 106 PS at 6,000 RPM and 138 NM of torque from 4,200 RPM.

Transmission

Power is sent to the front wheels via a Getrag 6-speed automatic transmission.

Haval H1 Ride Comfort

The Haval H1 suspension system features MacPherson strut up front and torsion beam at the rear. The raised ride height allows longer suspension travel and makes travelling on rugged terrain and rural backroads easier.

The overall ride and handling quality is underwhelming and there is definitely room for improvement in terms of the NVH levels.

Haval H1 Fuel Consumption

No official rated fuel economy.

Haval H1 Conclusion

The Haval H1 offers a rather compelling proposition in the B-Segment crossover SUV category with a low entry price, reasonable equipment list and unique exterior design. While designed to look like an off-roader, it is far from being one. The 7-Year warranty with unlimited mileage is certainly attractive, but it is going to take more than that to get rid of the skepticism most Malaysian have towards Chinese made products.