New Haval H9 makes its own roads where there are none

Great Wall has introduced a new performance version of its Haval H9 SUV. Let us see how well equipped the car is for severe off-road conditions.

The first impression is ‘quite well, indeed’. There is a sizable suspension lift, robust underchassis protection, an expedition rack on the roof with integrated LED lights, a protruding front grille, aggressively styled bumpers all around, and enormous wheels represented by heavy-duty rims wrapped in all-terrain rubber.

Inside, the scope of changes is quite smaller. The main highlights include a larger instrument panel and an updated multimedia system.

Rumor has it that the performance-oriented Haval H9 will ship with a stronger two-liter gasoline engine than the regular H9, rated at approximately 251 hp (187 kW) and 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque. No official confirmation exists to date.

The car will go on sale in China, and China only, later this year. Watch the video for an overview of the standard H9.