New year, new ride: GWM Haval H9

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Philippines is poised to release the Haval H9, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), looking to compete against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Montero Sport. 

We have talked about the nameplate in our “Zigwheels PH wrap: vehicles we’re excited to see this 2026” article, and despite the lack of an official release date, the author noted that it could come anytime soon as the local wing of the Chinese carmaker is consistently building hype around its launch. 

Further, all seems to be set as GWM Philippines already previewed the Haval H9 at last year’s Manila International Auto Show, and the Land Transportation Office already released homologation papers for the model. 

That said, those wanting to find out more about what the GWM Haval H9 has to offer can check out its specifications below: 

Dimensions 

Overall length, width, height (in millimeters [mm>)	4,950 x 1,976 x 1,930
Wheelbase (in mm)	2,850
Ground clearance (in mm)	224
Water wading capacity (in mm)	800
Gross vehicle weight (in kilograms)	3,020

Exterior 

The GWM Haval H9 boasts a bold exterior with a larger-than-life grille donning the “HAVAL” script at the center. The meshwork is flanked by square lamp garnishes that house circular illumination. 

Below the fascia is a rather robust-looking bumper that appears to offer a good approach angle. 

The side profile of the GWM Haval H9 is minimalist with the obvious absence of claddings on the wheel arches and side sills. This design choice makes the SUV look more elegant. 

It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/60 tires.

At the back, the GWM Haval H9 is fitted with a swing-out door where the spare tire can be mounted, as well as taillamps, and a beefy bumper that echoes the appearance of what can be seen at the fore. 

Other notable features include: 

• Sun roof 
• Roof rails 

Interior 

Inside the GWM Haval H9’s cabin is where the party is at. Plenty of convenience features and technological amenities have been endowed to the capable SUV, which makes it a good choice for families who like to go mall crawling or go on spontaneous out-of-the-metro adventures on the weekends. 

Here is a list of its interior appointments: 

• Leather upholstery 
• 10.25-inch thin-film transistor colored instrument cluster
• 14.6-inch high-definition infotainment system 
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto connectivity 
• 540-degree around-view camera 
• Wireless charger (50 watts)
• Three-zone automatic air conditioning system 

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Powertrain, chassis 

Under the hood of the GWM Haval H9 is a 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

On paper, the setup makes up to 184 horsepower and 480 Newton-meters of torque. 

The SUV also has a four-wheel drive system with dual speed and mechanical lock functionality. 

For halts and deceleration, it relies on ventilated disc brakes, front and back. Suspension-wise, it has a double wishbone arrangement at the fore and a multi-link, non-independent suspension at the rear. 

Available are three drive modes to help tailor one’s driving experience, namely Normal, Eco, and Sport. 

Safety 

When it comes to safety, the GWM Haval H9 has the following features: 

Standard safety 

• Airbags 
• Seatbelts 
• Cruise control 
• Automatic crash unlock 
• Automatic fuel cut-off 
• Brake assist with override system 
• Anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution 
• Traction control 

Advanced driver-assist systems 

• 540-degree around-view monitor 
• Rear parking sensors 
• Hill descent control 
• Electronic parking brake with auto hold 
• Tire pressure monitoring 
• Electronic stability control 

Final thoughts 

The GWM Haval H9 comes into the Philippines, looking to go headfirst into a Japanese brand-dominated segment.

Despite an impressive spec sheet, only time will tell whether or not it has the staying power to compete against staples that have proven themselves to be dependable and reliable rides for many Filipino families. 

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