Great Wall Motor (GWM) is preparing to expand its SUV lineup with the introduction of the Haval HX, a new flagship seven-seater featuring a rugged, “boxy” design and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. While still in the consideration phase, the model represents a significant potential move for GWM Australia as it seeks to reclaim the large-family SUV segment.
A New Contender in the Seven-Seat Segment
The Haval HX is positioned to compete directly with established heavyweights such as the Toyota Kluger, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento. If released in Australia, it would mark Haval’s return to the three-row SUV market, filling the void left by the discontinuation of the Haval H9 in 2021.
Key dimensions and design features include:
– Length: 4,950mm (making it 94mm longer than the previous H9).
– Styling: An upright, “square-shouldered” aesthetic reminiscent of a Land Rover Defender, featuring a flat roof and a side-hinged tailgate with an externally mounted spare wheel.
– Architecture: Unlike the rugged, body-on-frame “Tank” series, the HX utilizes a monocoque structure built on GWM’s new “One” platform.
Advanced Powertrain and Technology
The HX is designed around GWM’s latest technological advancements, specifically focusing on electrification and autonomous capabilities.
The Hi4-Z Hybrid System
The model showcased features the Hi4-Z plug-in hybrid powertrain, which integrates:
– A 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.
– Dual electric motors.
– An 800V electrical architecture, which typically allows for much faster charging speeds compared to standard systems.
– A projected electric-only driving range of up to 200km, making it a highly efficient option for daily commuting without petrol.
Intelligent Driving Features
While interior details remain under wraps, GWM has confirmed the HX will be a high-tech cabin. It is expected to feature a roof-mounted LiDAR unit as part of the “Vision, Language, Action” (VLA) system. This technology is intended to support advanced driver assistance functions, including:
– Navigate on Autopilot (NOA)
– Autonomous parking capabilities
Strategic Context: The GWM Portfolio
The introduction of the HX highlights GWM’s strategy of diversifying its sub-brands to cover different consumer needs. By utilizing the “One” platform—which supports electric, hybrid, and combustion engines—GWM can rapidly deploy various models across different markets.
In Australia, GWM is managing a two-pronged approach to SUVs:
1. The Haval Brand: Focused on car-like, tech-heavy monocoque SUVs (like the upcoming HX) for families and urban drivers.
2. The Tank Brand: Focused on rugged, body-on-frame vehicles (like the Tank 300 and 500) for off-road enthusiasts.
GWM Australia has also noted that the second-generation Haval H9 remains a possibility, which would serve as a traditional off-roader to compete with the Ford Everest and Toyota LandCruiser Prado.
The Bottom Line: The Haval HX represents GWM’s attempt to blend rugged, enthusiast-style aesthetics with the practical, high-tech requirements of the modern family SUV market.
The model’s official production name is expected to be revealed on April 10, 2026, though its actual arrival in Australian showrooms remains a future prospect.
