Haval H6 GT Review: Premium Style & Value, But Key Compromises?

Is the Haval H6 GT Worth Your $47,000?

If you're comparing midsize SUVs under $50,000, the Haval H6 GT demands attention with its coupe-like styling and premium cabin. But after extensive testing, I've identified critical trade-offs between its head-turning design and everyday usability. This analysis combines Drive.com.au's detailed assessment with industry insights to help you determine if this Chinese SUV delivers substance beyond its striking looks.

Design & Premium Features Analysis

Exterior styling sets the H6 GT apart with its sloping roofline, dual spoilers, and sporty green brake calipers—design elements uncommon in this price bracket. Our Ultra test car ($46,988 driveway with Crown Gray paint) features:

Aggressive LED lighting and gloss-black grille
20-inch Michelin tires on alloy wheels
Fake carbon fiber accents that surprisingly avoid looking cheap

The cabin punches above its price with Alcantara trim, panoramic sunroof, and dual digital screens. Storage solutions impress with:

Layered center console bins
Wireless charging nook
Foldable cup holders and door bottle pockets

However, the rotary gear selector feels out of place, and wireless Apple CarPlay requires awkward cable routing through the center console—a notable ergonomic miss.

Infotainment & Practicality Assessment

The Ultra grade's 12.3-inch infotainment display boasts sharp graphics but suffers from:

Laggy touch response
Overly complex menu structures
No built-in navigation (relying solely on phone mirroring)
Absence of digital radio

Rear-seat comfort excels with ample knee/headroom even for six-foot passengers. You get:

Rear air vents and USB ports
Center armrest cup holders
Generous door storage

Boot space reveals the styling compromise:

392L with seats up (below segment average)
1,390L with seats folded
Powered tailgate adds convenience despite the capacity sacrifice

Driving Experience & Performance Realities

On-road behavior favors comfort over sportiness:

Soft suspension absorbs bumps effectively
Significant body roll in corners
Light steering lacks feedback (Sport mode adds minimal weight)
Poor rear visibility due to the coupe roofline

The 2.0L turbo engine (150kW/320Nm) pairs with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission exhibiting:

Noticeable throttle delay when accelerating
Low-speed jerkiness
Real-world fuel consumption of 12.3L/100km in urban driving—well above GWM's 8.4L claim

Safety credentials shine with a 5-star ANCAP rating and comprehensive features including:

Blind-spot monitoring
360-degree camera (exceptionally clear)
Auto park assist
Lane keep assist (overly aggressive on winding roads)

Value Verdict & Key Considerations

Against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5, the H6 GT offers:

More premium materials
Superior standard equipment
Standout styling
Lower entry price ($40,990 for base Lux)

Critical trade-offs demand your attention:

Transmission refinement lags behind Japanese competitors
Fuel efficiency disappoints despite 91-octane compatibility
Infotainment frustrations persist

Actionable buyer advice:

Test the transmission extensively during urban driving
Verify boot space meets your cargo needs
Compare real-world fuel figures with competitors
Negotiate servicing packages upfront
Consider the base Lux model to maximize value

Who should buy it: Design-focused buyers prioritizing cabin luxury over driving dynamics. Those upgrading from older vehicles may tolerate its quirks more readily.

Final Recommendation

The Haval H6 GT delivers undeniable style and features for under $47,000, making it a compelling alternative to mainstream midsize SUVs. However, its transmission calibration and thirst for fuel represent significant compromises. If you prioritize aesthetics and tech over driving engagement, it warrants serious consideration—but test drive thoroughly before committing.

Which trade-off—styling versus drivetrain refinement—matters more for your daily drives? Share your priorities below.