In the world of family SUVs, the words ‘exciting’ and ‘performance’ are usually reserved for high-end European models with price tags that make your eyes water. GWM clearly didn’t get that memo. They’ve just dropped a pair of plug-in hybrid Haval H6 variants into the New Zealand market that blend mind-boggling efficiency with the kind of performance that will leave hot hatches wondering what just happened.
GWM is expanding its local H6 lineup with two new PHEV models, both built on the top-spec Ultra grade. But this isn’t just about adding a plug and saving some fuel; it’s about creating a monster. Let’s get straight to the numbers, because they’re frankly ludicrous.
The range-topping Ultra PHEV AWD combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with dual electric motors to unleash a colossal 268kW and 760Nm of torque. No, that is not a typo. Seven. Hundred. And. Sixty. Newton. Metres. In a family SUV that starts from $53,990 (+ORC).
All that twist helps catapult the AWD H6 from 0–100km/h in a blistering 4.8 seconds. That’s proper performance car territory, making this one of the ultimate sleeper vehicles for the school run.
The slightly more sedate 2WD model isn’t exactly a slouch either, delivering a still-potent 240kW and 540Nm for just $50,990 (+ORC).The punchline to this performance-heavy joke is the fuel economy. GWM claims the AWD model sips just 1.1L/100km, while the 2WD manages an even more frugal 1.0L/100km.
That efficiency is made possible by a generous pure electric range of up to 100km for the AWD and 106km for the 2WD, meaning the daily commute and errands can likely be done without ever waking the petrol engine. When you do need a top-up, it’s a modern affair with a CCS2 port allowing for DC fast charging that can get you from 30–80% in under half an hour.
Being based on the Ultra trim means the spec sheet is as packed as the powertrain. A massive 14.6-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, along with a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera with a clever ‘transparent chassis’ view to help you avoid kerbing those alloys. A full suite of active safety tech, including Traffic Jam Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, is also thrown in.
GWM is clearly confident in its new high-voltage hero, backing the H6 PHEV with its ‘GWM Care’ package, which includes a 7-year unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty, an 8-year battery warranty, and 5 years of roadside assistance. This isn’t just a new model; it’s a statement. GWM is offering Kiwi buyers a vehicle that refuses to compromise, delivering extreme performance, impressive EV range, and a premium list of features at a price point its rivals will find very hard to ignore.
The Haval H6 PHEV range is available to order now.
