2025 GWM Haval H5 is a full-size, frame-based 4WD SUV

If there’s one thing that makes GWM stand out from other Chinese automakers, it’s the fact that they are not afraid of building brawny and unapologetic body-on-frame SUVs. Despite already having a wide array of electrified crossover SUVs, GWM still makes cars like the H9 and the Cannon pickup truck, which are available with a frame-based platform and with traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs).

But if there’s one particular SUV we wish GWM Philippines eventually brings into the country, it’s the Haval H5. First revealed in 2023, the second-generation Haval H5 has received a minor update as it now features a more dynamic appearance for the 2025 model year.

Starting with the most obvious, the updated body-on-frame, full-size SUV gets a refreshed set of LED headlights and daytime running lights. It’s also available with blacked-out styling elements, particularly on the grille & grille surround, foglight bezels, and stylish alloy wheels. Apart from that, the massive SUV largely still looks the same as before with its bulging fenders, prominent hood, sleek LED taillights, and huge doors.

Size-wise, the 2025 continues to measure 5190mm long, 1905mm wide, and has a generous 3150mm wheelbase. For the 2025 model year, however, its height has been increased from 1835mm to 1864mm, which translates to an additional 29mm. For extra peace of mind when going off the beaten path, the full-size comes with 225mm of ground clearance. 

The Haval H5 sits on the same platform as its Tank brethren and also comes with a front double wishbone suspension and a multi-link solid axle in the back. This translates to a comfortable ride quality, as well as off-road durability, as claimed by GWM.

Hop inside and the full-size Haval H5 welcomes occupants with acres of space. With a length of nearly 5.2 meters, the frame-based SUV has plenty of space for both cargo and people. In fact, it’s not even offered with third-row seats to maximize cargo space for those who like to haul plenty on a road trip. Features-wise, the 2025 Haval H5 gets plenty of amenities and even features a cabin that appears to have been inspired by the Tank 300.

It gets a fully digital instrument panel, a wide touchscreen infotainment system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, a Tank 300-derived gear selector, buttons for the HVAC/climate control system, full leather interior, ventilated cupholders, power-adjustable front seats, and a wireless charging pad for mobile phones.

Want to turn the Haval H5 into massive sleeping quarters? One can fold the second-row seats, and you’ll be treated to a two-meter-long sleeping space. If you need to haul plenty of stuff and don’t like to do return trips, the folded second-row seats will allow users to carry up to 2,116 liters worth of luggage, which is enough room for 38 carry-on suitcases according to GWM.

Under the hood, the 2025 Haval H5 is available with two powertrain options. First is a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline-four that makes 215 PS with 380 Nm of torque and is coupled to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Next is the 2.0L turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, which pumps out 161 PS with 400 Nm of torque and is also paired with an 8-speed automatic. All variants of the 2025 Haval H5 come with 4WD as standard.

Would the 2025 GWM Haval H5 make sense in the Philippines if it’s offered here? Should the automaker be able to price it competitively, this near 5.2-meter behemoth of an SUV could dwarf other full-size (and even midsize) SUVs in terms of size and value-for-money.