GWM Shows The Haval H9 At Auto Expo To Take On The Fortuner And Endeavour In India

• Will be offered in a total of six variants.
• Exterior highlights include 
• Its 2.0-litre petrol motor making 215PS and 324Nm could be the only engine on offer.
• Launch timelines have not been disclosed, but we could see the SUV in early 2021.
• It is likely to be priced at around Rs 30 lakh when launched.

The Great Wall Motors-owned Haval brand has unveiled the H9 full-size SUV in India. The H9, the H6 mid-size SUV and the Ora R1 EV are likely to be GWM’s first vehicles in India (link to story). It will be offered in 6 variants: Elite, Comfortable, Intelligent, Luxury, Exclusive and Distinguished. the H9 will rival the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, and Mahindra Alturas G4. Expect prices to be around Rs 30 lakh. The carmaker had teased the SUV previously and you can read the story here. 

While most full-size SUVs in India are powered by diesel engines, the Haval H9 is likely to be a petrol-only offering considering it was the only variant on display. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 221PS of power and 385Nm of torque. A diesel may be offered in the future at GWM’s discretion. The 2.0-litre petrol mill is paried to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. It also comes with an all-terrain control system, consisting of 6 driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Eco).

On the outside, the H9 sports an imposing figure. It gets an oversized chrome grille in the front and a tall stance. Other highlights include matrix LED headlamps with DRLs, 17-inch/ 18-inch wheels and front and rear fog lights. View it in profile and the H9 stands out in its length. Haval has taken a traditional approach to the H9’s design. While some of them are odd styling cues, the H9 exudes sensibility and durability.

Head inside the Haval H9, and you get treated to a feature loaded cabin in three upholstery color options. Highlights include a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, sunroof, massaging and power-operated seats. You also get a 5-inch touchscreen system at the rear alongwith heated and ventilated seats. Safety features include such as ABS, EBD, seven airbags, 360 degree camera and automatic parking assist.

Indian car buyers in this segment prefer diesels for their economy. With the 10-year registration rule, scrapping regulation, and BS6 norms, the Indian buyer’s mindset could see a shift. The H9 has a solid resume, but we can’t wait to get our hands on the wheel. The carmaker will collaborate in the Make in India policy with a planned investment of 1 billion USD. It already has an existing R & D centre in Bengaluru.