Haval H1 launched in Malaysia, replaces the Haval M4

The Chinese automotive industry has been growing rapidly in the recent years, starting with the local assembly of major car brands. Being a fast-learner, the nation acquired the technology and formed their own brands like Geely, Dongfeng Motor, BAIC and Haval, to name a few.

The latter has ventured into the industry with the specialization in premium and compact SUVs. In conjunction with SUV popularity globally, Haval is working on their rebranding activity as a measure to boost sales internationally. Previously known as Great Wall Motors (GWM), the company aspires to conquer markets outside China, especially in the ASEAN. Last year, Haval M4 was introduced in Malaysia and not even a complete year of its market presence, the brand has replaced it with the newly launched model.

Haval has recently launched the H1 compact SUV to the Malaysian market, packaged with decent equipment and competitive prices.

What is it?

The Haval H1 is a B-segment SUV in which the company reckons to rival against the Proton Iriz, Perodua Myvi, Kia Rio and the likes. Yes, the three aforementioned rivals are all normal riding 5-door hatchback, compared to higher-riding Haval H1 compact SUV. This is mainly because not many other SUV models in the market are currently offered with that size and price range.

One important thing to note is that the Haval H1 is basically a facelifted Haval M4, but with a nomenclature change as part of the company’s effort to go global. Expect the other models in the lineup to be affected by the revamp.

The Haval H1 is available in three variants – Comfort, Premium and Elite – with price starting from RM61,950.00.

Exterior

The exterior of the Haval H1 is pretty much unchanged, it carries the same kits as on the M4. There are Haval letterings on the front grille, tailgate and side sills. While the Comfort and Premium variants are equipped with halogen headlights, the range-topping Elite is fitted with Poly-Ellipse projector unit with light tube DRLs.

All models ride on 16-inch wheels wrapped in 205/60 tyres and are offered with six colours; Titanium White, Sky Silver, Fashionable Orange, Pearl Black, Ocean Blue and Jazz Red.

Interior

Same thing on the interior, the overall construction and equipment is a carried-over from the Haval M4. Everything from 4-way adjustable front seats, leather steering wheel, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, double-DIN head unit and 60:40 split-folding rear seats come as standard across the range, except for leather seats, navigation and rear mirror-mounted SmartTAG which are only available in Premium and Elite trims.

Engine and gearbox

The engine on the Haval H1 has been left alone too. Propelling the compact SUV is the familiar 1.5-litre VVT MPI petrol engine, good for 105 hp at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. We haven’t got to drive the car and measure the fuel consumption figure, but the Haval H1 is the first SUV in Malaysia to receive EEV certification. We can say that we have got some kind of high expectation in that respect.

Transmission-wise, the six-speed automated manual (AMT) is the sole unit offered for now as the five-speed manual has been dropped for 2017. Market demand, we guess.

Safety

Buyers of the Haval H1 will receive decent active safety features comprised of ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Stability Control and Hill Assist. In addition, the Haval H1 also comes with rear door child lock, ISOFIX mounts, car locating function and reverse camera (Premium and Elite only). The Elite variant will add on tinted film and digital video recorder (DVR) i.e. a dash cam.

For the owner’s peace of mind, the new Haval H1 is offered with a seven-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage and a promising after sales value in which the car is guaranteed to hold at least 50% of its price if it is sold within the first five years.

Specifications of the Haval H1

Engine: 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated VVT MPI, petrol

Transmission: 6-speed AMT

Power: 105 hp at 6,000 rpm

Torque: 138 Nm at 4,200 rpm

Safety: 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Hill Assist, ISOFIX, reverse camera