We want the GWM Haval H7 "Big Dog" PHEV in PH

GWM is out to prove that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) need not be bland, boring, or generic. Yes, they already have the likes of the Haval H6 and the Haval Jolion serving as sleek, practical, and feature-packed hybrid (or turbocharged) crossovers. But with PHEVs growing in popularity in the country, perhaps the automaker could bring a new PHEV from Haval.

During a recent trip to the PRC last week, we were able to see and try out the all-new Haval H7. Also called the Big Dog in its home market, it’s a compact crossover that’s available with either a turbocharged 2.0L or a 1.5L turbocharged PHEV powertrain via the brand’s proprietary Hi-4T system. 

Beginning with the latter, its powertrain makes a combined 326 PS with 530 Nm of torque and can travel on electric power for more than 100 km. It also has a total cruising range of up to 1,000 km with a fully charged 19.09 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery and a full tank of gas. The Haval H7 Big Dog also benefits from a BorgWarner 4WD system, a 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), front & rear locking differentials, and a total of nine all-terrain modes.

Those who prefer traditional internal combustion (ICE) will be happy to know it’s also available with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four. It generates 238 PS, and the engine is coupled to a 9-speed wet-type dual-clutch gearbox. The turbocharged Haval H7 Big Dog is available either as a FWD or 4WD crossover SUV.

Style-wise, the Haval H7 Big Dog features a retro-inspired design that appears to have taken inspiration from classic cars of yesteryear. For starters, the front fascia gets a stylish front grille with faux air intakes that flank the round LED headlights that are housed in a square-like bezel. The result is a Mustang-like front end that’s complemented by a sleek front bumper that completes the crossover’s unique appearance.

It also gets massive alloy wheels, which help give the Big Dog its tall ride height.  Further giving it a rough and ready appearance are the black body cladding, the bulging wheel fenders, functional roof rails, a huge tailgate, and a distinct set of LED taillights.

In terms of dimensions, the H7 Big Dog measures 4705mm long, 1908mm wide, and 1780mm tall on a 2810mm wheelbase. This makes it marginally bigger than the H6, despite looking smaller when viewed via pictures.

Step inside and the H7 Big Dog welcomes you into a sleek and tech-laden cabin. Immediately catching your eyes are a pair of high-definition displays - a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It may be a crossover SUV, but GWM gave it a dashboard that’s more akin to classic 4x4 SUVs thanks to the massive front door handles, vertical zircon vents on each corner, and an old-school grab-handle in front of the passenger seat.

The center console, meanwhile, takes some inspiration from the Tank 300 with its unique gear selector and drive mode selector. We’re also happy to see that GWM decided to give the H7 Big Dog plenty of buttons on the center console and HVAC system, which makes it more ergonomic than other Chinese crossovers that put almost every in-car function on the touchscreen.

There’s no word yet on whether GWM Philippines plans to bring the Haval H7 Big Dog PHEV to the country. But given that other markets such as Australia will get it soon, perhaps the automaker can make it available via an indent order.

Heck, if priced correctly, it could go one-on-one with the likes of the BYD Sealion 6 as well as the other compact PHEVs that are starting to pop up in the Philippine market.