Hailing from the Middle Kingdom, C-segment SUV Haval H2 has just made its Malaysian debut via distributor GO Auto, a model which will compete with the likes of the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. What the Haval loses out in terms of badge cred, it makes up with a rather impressive equipment list.
Launched in three variants – Standard MT, Comfort AT and Premium AT, GO Auto targets to sell 1,000 units of the H2 before the year ends. The first 100 units slated for the Malaysian market is CBU, but local assembly will commence in September 2016.
QUICK FACTS
| Name | Haval H2 Standard MT | Haval H2 Comfort AT | Haval H2 Premium AT |
| Engine | 1.5-litre; turbocharged inline-four cylinder | ||
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Automatic | |
| Max Power (hp) | 147hp @ 5,600 rpm | ||
| Max Torque (Nm) | 210 Nm @ 2,200 – 4,500 rpm | ||
| OTR Price (RM) | RM89,950 | RM98,950 | RM101,950 |
EXTERIOR
At 1,695mm, the Haval H2 stands taller than segment favourites Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5, but shorter than both at 4,335mm. Looks wise, the Haval H2 is rather well proportioned. Buyers may opt for the roof-body two-tone colour scheme that converges at the C-pillar, separated by a Haval badge.
From the front, the chromed grille is flanked by a pair of height-adjustable halogens underlined with a row of LED DRLs. The indicators are integrated within the wing mirrors, each featuring a miniature projector that lights the ground with the Haval logo.
Moving onto the back, the tailgate sports a neat design with HAVAL lettering emblazoned across. Below that is a concave space dedicated for the number plate, a la Audi Q5. Finished off with a pair of chrome-tipped tailpipes, the rear of the Haval H2 looks decidedly classy to this writer.
INTERIOR
Apart from the shiny piece of metal that runs across the fascia (which could be a bit too loud), the interior of the Haval H2, at first impression, looks pretty well put together. The six-way electrically adjustable driver seat (absent on the base model), for instance, feels pretty sculpted and supportive. Standard across the range are leather seats, ISOFIX, Anti-Glare rear view mirror, Bluetooth connectivity and rear air conditioning vents.
The interior is also where the standard model loses out considerably in terms of kit, compared to the comfort and premium versions. It comes without auto headlamps and wipers, cruise control, sunroof, boot space cover, dual high tone speakers, reverse camera, dual zone AC system and ambient lighting.
The center console is home to two rotary dials that control the stereo and the air-conditioning system, whereas buttons for radio and Bluetooth handsfree (to answer calls) are neatly laid out on both sides. The main touchscreen display sits just below the central air conditioning vents.
PERFORMANCE
Here’s the star of the show. The Haval H2 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mill that churns out 147 hp and 210 Nm of torque. All power is channeled to the front wheels via a sox-speed manual or automatic transmission. Not going to win any drag races against its Japanese rivals, but kudos to GO Auto for offering a manual option.
SAFETY
Safety is one aspect that the Haval H2 doesn’t lack. Standard across range are dual front airbags, electronic stability control, collision fuel off system, tyre pressure monitoring system and an active headrest. The Comfort and Premium variants gets more in the form of four additional airbags (front side and curtain airbags), reverse camera and left front wheel zone camera(installed within the left rearview mirror).
WHAT ELSE?
Again, the Haval H2 is offered in three variants, beginning with the manual which is priced at RM86,776.01. The Comfort and Premium versions are priced at RM95,527.97 and RM98,445.29 respectively. All prices are inclusive of GST but excludes insurance.
Colours available include Haval Blue, Titanium White, Modern Grey; two tone body colours are offered too, which are Haval Red + Classic Black, Classic Black + Titanium White and a creatively named Brownish Brown + Titanium White. The Haval H2 is packaged with a 5-Year warranty and 3 years or 60,000km free service. Owners may get their vehicles serviced at 20 3S dealerships and 16 2S centres nationwide.
IMAGE GALLERY
