Chinese automaker Haval has given its first-generation SUV named Big Dog (a.k.a. Dagou/Dargo) a sizable update on its domestic market.
Changes at the front end boil down to mildly tweaked headlight bezels and a different radiator grille sporting two massive horizontal bars with the brand name etched into the top bar. The old version had a separate ‘Haval’ badge attached to the grille.
The main novelty at the rear is a light bar connecting the brake lights. Other than that, buyers can choose from new wheel designs up to 19 inches large and special two-tone interior trims.
In its most basic form, the SUV still makes do with its usual 1.5-liter turbo engine mated exclusively to the front wheels through a seven-speed DCT. It makes 184 PS (181 hp / 135 kW) and 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) of torque.
Paying extra for the top spec nets you a new 2.0-liter turbo four-pot with a nine-speed Great Wall DCT. It churns out 238 PS (235 hp / 175 kW) and 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque – noticeably more than its predecessor did. This spec is the only one that supports AWD with a rear diff lock and has eight drive modes to switch between.
Depending on the trim level, buyers can look forward to LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, climate control and massage seats. The multimedia system keeps its usual display duo sized 10.25 and 12.3 inches across. Surround-view cameras are available, and the audio speaker count has risen to eight. The car comes loaded with enough assist features for Level 2 driving autonomy.
Prices in China range from 123,900 to 149,900 Yuan.
