Haval H9 7 Seater Review: Best Budget SUV?

Let’s be real — when someone says “Chinese SUV,” your first thought probably isn’t “perfect for my family.” But the Haval H9 7 seater might just surprise you. It’s big, comfortable, surprisingly refined, and — best of all — won’t empty your wallet like some of the more well-known brands.

In a market filled with expensive 7-seaters, this SUV brings real value without skimping on capability or features. If you’re in Australia and shopping smart, this one deserves a serious look.

What is the Haval H9 7 Seater?

The H9 7 seater is a big SUV with full 4WD gear, roomy inside, and a feature count that embarrasses more expensive competition. Built by GWM (Great Wall Motors), it’s a proper replacement for the Toyota Prado or Ford Everest — but costing tens of thousands of dollars less.

Quick Specs:

• Engine: 2.0L Turbo Petrol
  
• Power: 180kW / 350Nm
  
• Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic
  
• Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD w/ low range
  
• Towing Capacity: 2,500 kg
  
• Seats: 7
  

Unlike many “budget” SUVs, this one doesn’t feel cheap. It feels like a well-thought-out alternative to what you’re used to seeing on Aussie roads..

Who’s it For ?

If you’re a family that’s outgrown your mid-size SUV — or someone who wants serious off-road ability without paying $75K+ — the Haval H9 7 seater should be on your radar.

It’s also perfect for:

• Weekend warriors
  
• Tradies with a family
  
• Towing small campers or trailers
  
• Drivers seeking value without compromising on feeling like they’ve “settled”
  

How Does It Drive?

On-Road

Don’t be deceived by the 2.0L engine. It’s turbocharged and provides nice acceleration. The ZF 8-speed transmission is smooth, particularly in city driving and highway passing maneuvers. The steering is light but assured.

Off-Road

This is no soft-roader. The Haval H9 7 seater features:

• Actual low-range 4WD
  
• Rear diff lock
  
• Terrain selection for sand, snow, mud, and more
  

Ground clearance: 206mm

It’ll go places many other SUVs at this price point can’t.

Interior: Feels More Expensive Than It Is

• Heated & ventilated front seats
  
• Power-adjustable driver & passenger seat
  
• Ambient lighting
  
• Multi-zone climate control
  
• 12.3″ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  

Step inside, and you’re greeted with soft-touch materials, leather-trimmed seats, and a layout that’s both user-friendly and surprisingly elegant.

Standout Features:

It not only looks great. It also feels great — particularly for road trips with family or friends.

Is It Practical?

Yes. With all three rows occupied, boot space is a squeeze (~145L). But drop the third row down and you have 747L of usable capacity — ideal for luggage, shopping, or camping equipment.

And you also get:

• ISOFIX & top tether points
  
• Rear air vents for every row
  
• Fold-flat third row
  
• Lots of cupholders and USB sockets
  

In short, the Haval H9 7 seater was engineered for everyday family life.

Tech & Infotainment

Unlike last-decade-era SUVs, this one doesn’t have that outdated feel.

What You Get in :

• 12.3″ touchscreen
  
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  
• 360-degree camera
  
• Navigation
  
• Digital driver display
  
• Premium sound system (8 speakers)
  

All of it works seamlessly, and the interface is tidy. No quirky menus, no lag — just a solid tech experience.

Safety: Packed with Features

You no longer have to shell out $80K for safety. The Haval H9 7 seater features:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  
• Blind Spot Monitoring
  
• Lane Departure Warning
  
• Adaptive Cruise Control
  
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  
• Front & rear parking sensors
  
• Hill Descent Control
  

It’s equipped with the gear, and GWM is targeting a full 5-star ANCAP safety rating using modern testing conditions.

Family Life: Designed With Parents In Mind

The H9 makes life a bit easier. That means:

• Third-row easy access
  
• Second-row seats that slide and recline
  
• Good visibility all around
  
• Child-seat friendly layout
  
• Quiet cabin even at highway speeds
  

No matter if it’s daycare drop-offs or a road trip, it adapts to your life without complaint.

Compared to the Competition

vs Toyota Prado

Feature	Haval H9 7 Seater	Toyota Prado
Engine	2.0L Turbo Petrol	2.8L Diesel
Power	180kW	150kW
Starting Price	~$50K	~$72K+
Features	Fully loaded	Basic in base models
Off-road capability	Strong	Excellent

Verdict: Prado wins on heritage. H9 wins on price, features, and quality inside.

---

vs Isuzu MU-X

Feature	Haval H9 7 Seater	Isuzu MU-X
Engine	2.0L Petrol	3.0L Diesel
Tech	More sophisticated	Simpler
Interior	Premium quality	Robust
Price	~$50K	~$65–70K

Verdict: MU-X is tough. The H9 is polished — for less.

---

vs Ford Everest

Feature	Haval H9 7 Seater	Ford Everest
Power	180kW	154kW (Bi-Turbo)
Interior	Upscale quality	Excellent
Safety Tech	Comparable	Excellent
Price	~$50K	~$65K+

Verdict: Everest is polished. H9 is close — and much cheaper.

Warranty & Running Costs

GWM supports the Haval H9 7 seater with:

• 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty
  
• 5 years roadside assist
  
• Capped-price servicing
  
• Service intervals: 12 months / 10,000km
  

Yes, the petrol engine is more thirsty (~10.9L/100km), but the upfront saving easily pays for itself for most purchasers.

Common Questions

Is the Haval H9 7 seater reliable?
Yes. GWM’s build quality has improved considerably. The warranty provides peace of mind.

How’s the resale value?
It’s still increasing — but you’re paying less up front. In the long run, you break even.

Can it tow confidently?
Most certainly. 2,500kg towing with stability and control features.

Is it too large for city usage?
Not a chance. Easy urban driving with light steering and parking sensors.

Last Word: Is the Haval H9 7 Seater Worth Buying?

If you want a 7-seater SUV that gets nearly everything right — without blowing your budget — the Haval H9 7 seater is a must-buy.

You’re getting:

• Substantial 4WD capability
  
• Space for the family
  
• Comfortable, contemporary interior
  
• Full safety package
  
• Peace of mind with 7-year warranty
  
• And real value — around $20K cheaper than its closest rivals
  

Our Score: 4.5 / 5

Pros:

• Incredible value
  
• Feature-rich
  
• Tough yet refined
  
• Excellent warranty
  

Cons:

• Slightly high fuel use
  
• Lower brand prestige (for now)
  

Final Thought

Look — if badge matters more than substance, you’ll probably skip this one.

But if you’re a savvy shopper who can see a bargain, the Haval H9 7 seater might just be the best SUV purchase you’ll make this year.

Drive it. Try it. You might not want to return the keys.