Scoop! The new GWM Haval H7 is set to launch in South Africa in October 2026, with 3 powertrains on offer: turbopetrol, traditional hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Here’s how much you can expect to pay.
- New H7 to arrive in October 2026 priced from R554 900.
- Three powertrain options confirmed
- Turbopetrol, HEV & PHEV locked in
The new Haval H7 is scheduled to launch in South Africa in October 2026, with GWM’s local division having now confirmed the latest version of the boxy 5-seater crossover will be available with a choice of 3 powertrains.
As a reminder, the Haval H7 nameplate debuted in Mzansi in January 2025, before GWM SA handed this unibody crossover (which is badged as the “Big Dog” in its domestic market of China) the “Black Edition” treatment in March 2026.
Now, however, the Chinese brand’s local arm is preparing to switch to a fresh H7, this time based on a model known as the “Haval Raptor” in China (where it’s been in production since 2023). Measuring 4 800 mm from snout to rump, the new version is some 95 mm longer than the model it will replace.
GWM South Africa has confirmed the new Haval H7 will be available locally with a choice of 3 distinct powertrain flavours: turbocharged petrol, traditional hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
The turbopetrol engine is identical to the 2.0-litre motor that does duty in the outgoing H7, where it makes 170 kW and 380 Nm, and is linked to a 9-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard. There’ll be three trim levels, with the flagship gaining all-wheel drive.
The HEV powertrain is built around a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, an electric motor and a 1.53 kWh battery pack, a combination that delivers peak outputs of 182 kW and 540 Nm. It features front-wheel drive, direct hybrid transmission and only available in the Super Luxury trim.
What about the PHEV powertrain? There are two and all feature a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol mill (but a far larger 23.7 kWh battery pack). Customers have the choice of a front-wheel-drive version generating 240 kW and 540 Nm or an all-paw variant that boasts peak outputs as lofty as 320 kW and 670 Nm, facilitating a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 4.9 seconds.
As a reminder, the outgoing Haval H7 line-up comprises 3 derivatives – the aforementioned turbopetrol powertrain, available in both front- and all-wheel drive guise, as well as a traditional hybrid (179 kW/530 Nm) – with pricing bookends of R604 950 and R734 950.
We’ll confirm final specifications, tech and features in the coming weeks.
How much does the GWM Haval H7 cost in South Africa?
The vehicle will be sold with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, 8-year/150 000 km battery warranty, and a 7-year/75 000 km service plan.
| H7 2.0T Super Luxury 4×2 9DCT | R554 900 |
| H7 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4×2 9DCT | R594 900 |
| H7 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4×4 9DCT | R654 900 |
| H7 1.5T HEV Super Luxury 4×2 DHT | R624 900 |
| H7 1.5T PHEV Super Luxury 4×2 DHT | R734 900 |
| H7 1.5T PHEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 DHT | R794 900 |
Related content
GWM SA eyeing new 4.0-litre V8 for 2027
It’s official: Tank 400 and 700 coming to SA
GWM SA to launch Wey luxury brand in 2027
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the new Haval H7 launch in South Africa, and what will it cost?
A: The new Haval H7 is set to launch locally in October 2026. While full pricing has yet to be finalised, GWM South Africa indicates that the HEV derivative will start at R624 900, with entry-level turbopetrol variants expected to start at a lower price point.
Q: What powertrain options will be available for the new Haval H7 in South Africa?
A: GWM South Africa has confirmed three powertrain configurations for the new Haval H7 line-up: a turbocharged petrol engine, a traditional hybrid (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Q: How does the new Haval H7 compare in size and design to the outgoing model?
A: Based on China’s “Haval Raptor” model, the new 5-seater boxy unibody crossover measures 4 800 mm in total length, making it roughly 95 mm longer from front to rear than the outgoing H7.
Cars.co.za
Providing you with the latest motoring news, new car releases and the simplest way to buy and sell cars.
