Chinese carmaker, Great Wall Motor (GWM), has officially launched the GWM Haval H9 in the Philippines. This marks the brand’s entry in the country’s hotly contested full-size 7-seat SUV segment.
Style-wise, the GWM Haval H9 exhibits a muscular aura. It enters the scene with a sizable front grille and a pair of LED headlights and daytime running lights for maximum visibility on the road at all times. The fascia is rounded out by a large, boxy bumper to channel in that brawny appeal. In profile, the muscular theme continues with design cues that solidify its off-road, adventurous nature. This is characterized by angular surfaces, squared-off window panels, a high-riding stance, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in grippy GitiXross 265/60 R18 rubbers. In back, the Haval H9 leaves the scene in style with a boxy look, complete with a tailgate mounted storage space designed to match the rest of the vehicle’s design cues.
According to GMW, the Haval H9 gives a commanding presence on the road with its 4,950 mm length and 1,976 mm width. It also rides on a 2,850 mm wheelbase that translates to a spacious room inside for passengers to enjoy, on or off the road.
Inside, the design emphasis shifts clearly towards technology and functionality. The cabin invites with black leather upholstered seats and touchpoints, accented with aluminum and wood-inspired finishes to drive in the elegant look and feel. When it comes to tech, the interior features a 14.6-inch high-definition touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, forming the core of a modern, driver-focused interface. These displays provide access to vehicle information, infotainment, and system controls. The interface comes with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports to connect devices for people on the go.
Safety and driver assistance systems are a central part of the Haval H9 package. Features include a 540-degree view camera, electronic stability control, hill descent control, and hill start assist. Moreover, the SUV features an all-wheel-drive system with torque-on-demand, cruise control, and 6 airbags (2 airbags each for the front passengers, side, and side curtain). Its advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) comes with brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), and off-road expert mode.
Under the hood of the GWM Haval H9 is a diesel-fed 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that puts out 186 hp and 480 Nm of torque. This is controlled via 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for added driving enjoyment.
The GWM Haval H9 carries a suggested retail price (SRP) of P1,998,888. To celebrate its local introduction, GWM Philippines is offering an introductory discount amounting to P70,000, which will run until May 31, 2026. This brings the selling price down to P1,928,888. Finally, a 7-year warranty package is also up for grabs, covering engine and transmission . This provides peace of mind and confidence for those interested in driving home the Haval H9.
Autocar’s Take
The GWM Haval H9’s Philippine launch signals a more assertive push by GWM Philippines into the higher volume, higher stakes segments of the local SUV market. On paper, the combination of a diesel engine, four-wheel-drive, a host of tech and safety features, and a long warranty addresses practical concerns of many Filipino SUV buyers.
The introductory prize further strengthens its appeal in a segment where value often determines purchasing decisions. While real-world performance will ultimately determine its success as it competes in the large 7-seat SUV segment, the Haval H9 launch shows that GWM is no longer testing local waters – it is positioning itself as a serious contender in the SUV maket, one that aims to compete for many years to come.
