The 2025 GWM Haval H6 is set to make waves in the mid-size SUV market in Australia, introducing plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants to its lineup to compete directly with established players like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BYD Sealion 6. With a refreshed design, enhanced technology, and a focus on value, the Haval H6 aims to attract families and eco-conscious buyers looking for a blend of performance, efficiency, and affordability. This article dives into the pricing, specifications, features, and competitive positioning of the 2025 Haval H6, including its new PHEV powertrains, to see how it stacks up in the crowded mid-size SUV segment.
Overview of the 2025 GWM Haval H6
The GWM Haval H6 has been a popular choice for Australian families since its introduction, offering a compelling mix of style, technology, and value. For 2025, GWM has given the Haval H6 a significant update, with a facelifted exterior, improved interior technology, and the addition of plug-in hybrid options for both the standard H6 and the sportier H6 GT. These updates position the H6 as a direct rival to the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, BYD Sealion 6, and other mid-size SUVs. The inclusion of PHEV powertrains reflects GWM’s commitment to electrification, catering to buyers seeking lower running costs and reduced emissions without sacrificing practicality.
The Haval H6 is available in petrol, hybrid, and now PHEV variants, with the latter offering impressive electric-only ranges and powerful performance. The H6 GT, with its coupe-inspired design, also gets a PHEV option, boasting a class-leading electric range that sets it apart from competitors. With drive-away pricing starting at $33,990 for the base petrol model and topping out at $55,990 for the H6 GT PHEV, the Haval H6 remains one of the most affordable options in its class.
Pricing and Variants
The 2025 GWM Haval H6 lineup offers a range of variants to suit different budgets and preferences. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pricing for the standard H6 and H6 GT models, all quoted as drive-away prices for Australia:
|
Variant |
Powertrain |
Price (Drive-Away) |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Haval H6 Premium |
Petrol (FWD) |
$33,990 |
2.0L turbo-petrol, 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, cloth seats |
|
Haval H6 Lux |
Petrol (FWD) |
$36,990 |
Synthetic leather, heated driver’s seat, 360-degree camera |
|
Haval H6 Ultra |
Petrol (FWD) |
$39,990 |
12.3-inch touchscreen, head-up display, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats |
|
Haval H6 Ultra Hybrid |
Hybrid (FWD) |
$43,990 |
1.5L hybrid, 179kW/530Nm, 5.2L/100km fuel economy |
|
Haval H6 Ultra PHEV (FWD) |
Plug-in Hybrid (FWD) |
$47,990 |
19.09kWh battery, 83km electric range (NEDC), 205kW/585Nm |
|
Haval H6 Ultra PHEV (AWD) |
Plug-in Hybrid (AWD) |
$50,990 |
AWD, same as FWD PHEV with additional all-wheel drive |
|
Haval H6 GT Lux |
Petrol (FWD) |
$40,990 |
Coupe-style body, 19-inch alloys, sporty interior |
|
Haval H6 GT Ultra |
Petrol (AWD) |
$46,490 |
Panoramic sunroof, heated/ventilated seats, intelligent voice command |
|
Haval H6 GT Ultra PHEV |
Plug-in Hybrid (AWD) |
$53,990* |
35.4kWh battery, 180km electric range (NEDC), 321kW/762Nm |
*Note: The H6 GT Ultra PHEV is discounted to $53,990 drive-away until March 31, 2025, with a regular price of $55,990. Early buyers also receive a free 7kW wall charger, with additional loyalty bonuses of $1,000 for existing GWM owners and $3,000 for trading in a GWM vehicle.
The pricing structure positions the Haval H6 as a value-driven option, undercutting competitors like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (from $57,290 before on-road costs) and the BYD Sealion 6 Premium AWD ($52,990 before on-road costs). The H6 GT PHEV, with its $53,990 introductory price, is particularly competitive, offering more power and a longer electric range than its rivals.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2025 Haval H6 lineup offers three powertrain options: petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Here’s a closer look at each:
Petrol
-
Engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder
-
Power/Torque: 170kW/320Nm (up 20kW from the previous model)
-
Transmission: 9-speed dual-clutch (replacing the previous 7-speed)
-
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) on GT Ultra
-
0-100km/h: Estimated 7-10 seconds
-
Fuel Economy: 7.4-8.3L/100km
-
Top Speed: 180-200km/h
The updated petrol engine offers improved power and refinement, making it a solid choice for buyers not ready to embrace electrification. The new 9-speed transmission enhances smoothness and efficiency compared to the previous 7-speed unit.
Hybrid
-
Engine: 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder with electric motor
-
Power/Torque: 179kW/530Nm
-
Transmission: Dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT)
-
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
-
Fuel Economy: 5.2L/100km
-
Key Features: Seamless petrol-electric integration, ideal for urban driving
The hybrid variant offers excellent fuel efficiency and is priced competitively against the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, making it a strong option for budget-conscious buyers seeking lower running costs.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
-
Haval H6 Ultra PHEV (FWD/AWD):
-
Engine: 1.5L turbo-petrol + electric motors
-
Power/Torque: 205kW/585Nm
-
Battery: 19.09kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
-
Electric Range: 83km (NEDC)
-
Charging: 6.6kW AC, 34kW DC (30-80% in 28 minutes)
-
0-100km/h: Approximately 5 seconds
-
Fuel Economy: 1.0L/100km (combined, NEDC)
-
-
Haval H6 GT Ultra PHEV (AWD):
-
Engine: 1.5L turbo-petrol + two electric motors (130kW front, 135kW rear)
-
Power/Torque: 321kW/762Nm
-
Battery: 35.4kWh ternary lithium-ion
-
Electric Range: 180km (NEDC)
-
Charging: 6.6kW AC (6 hours for full charge), 48kW DC (30-80% in ~26 minutes)
-
0-100km/h: 4.9 seconds
-
Fuel Economy: 0.8L/100km (combined, NEDC)
-
The H6 GT PHEV’s 180km electric range is a standout, doubling the range of competitors like the Outlander PHEV (84km NEDC) and Sealion 6 (81-92km NEDC). Its 321kW/762Nm output delivers sports car-like acceleration, making it one of the most powerful mid-size SUVs in its price range. However, real-world fuel economy may vary, with tests suggesting 3.4L/100km on mixed routes and up to 9.5L/100km on highways with a depleted battery.
Features and Technology
The 2025 Haval H6 is packed with features, particularly in the higher-spec Ultra trims. Standard equipment across the range includes:
-
Infotainment: 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch (Premium/Lux) or 12.3-inch (Ultra) touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
-
Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera
-
Comfort: Synthetic leather upholstery (except Premium), heated/ventilated front seats (Ultra), panoramic sunroof (Ultra), power tailgate (except Premium)
The H6 GT PHEV adds a head-up display, intelligent voice command, and a hands-free tailgate. However, it lacks a spare wheel, opting for a tyre repair kit, and some driver-assist systems, like lane-keep assist, can be overly aggressive. The interior is well-built, with premium materials like suede leather and knurled metal accents, though the infotainment system has been criticized for slow response times and complex menus.
Competitive Positioning
The Haval H6 and H6 GT PHEV face stiff competition from the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BYD Sealion 6. Here’s how they compare:
-
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV:
-
Price: From $57,290 (before on-road costs)
-
Electric Range: 84km (NEDC)
-
Power/Torque: 185kW/450Nm
-
Pros: Proven reliability, seven-seat option
-
Cons: Higher price, shorter electric range
-
-
BYD Sealion 6 Premium AWD:
-
Price: $52,990 (before on-road costs)
-
Electric Range: 81-92km (NEDC)
-
Power/Torque: 238kW/550Nm
-
Pros: Competitive pricing, strong brand reputation
-
Cons: Less power and range than H6 GT PHEV
-
The H6 GT PHEV’s 180km electric range and 321kW output give it a clear edge in performance and efficiency, while its drive-away pricing undercuts both rivals. The standard H6 PHEV, with a smaller battery and 83km range, is a closer match to the Sealion 6 but remains more affordable with drive-away pricing.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The Haval H6 offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, with 600L of boot space expanding to 1,485L with the rear seats folded. The H6 GT compromises slightly on boot space (392L) due to its coupe-style design but remains practical for families. The PHEV models are notably quick, with the H6 GT PHEV’s 4.9-second 0-100km/h sprint rivaling sports cars. However, the soft suspension can lead to body roll, and the infotainment system needs refinement. Real-world testing suggests the H6 GT PHEV achieves over 100km of electric range, making it ideal for daily commutes.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 GWM Haval H6 and H6 GT PHEV bring compelling value, performance, and efficiency to the mid-size SUV market. With competitive pricing, a class-leading 180km electric range for the GT PHEV, and a well-equipped interior, the Haval H6 is a strong contender against the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BYD Sealion 6. While there are areas for improvement, such as infotainment usability and suspension tuning, the Haval H6’s combination of affordability, technology, and electrification makes it an attractive option for Australian buyers. As GWM continues to expand its PHEV lineup, the Haval H6 is poised to challenge the status quo in the mid-size SUV segment.
