Gridly
Overview
The GWM Haval H6GT PHEV is Haval’s plug-in hybrid interpretation of the popular H6GT - a mid-size family SUV that has accumulated a strong owner base in Australia since its introduction. Where the standard H6GT runs a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine alone, the PHEV adds a substantial 35.4kWh battery and electric motor in AWD configuration, unlocking 180km of electric-only range - one of the longest PHEV ranges in the Australian mid-size SUV segment.
The standout figure here is that 180km EV range, backed by the data in GWM’s Australian specification sheets. This is not the modest 40–60km of earlier PHEV generation; it is a range that comfortably covers the weekly driving of most Australian households on electricity alone, reserving petrol for road trips and interstate runs. Combined with AWD traction and a 1,500kg braked towing rating, the H6GT PHEV is a genuinely capable family hauler.
GWM backs the H6GT PHEV with a 5-year/150,000km vehicle warranty and a separate 8-year/160,000km battery warranty. The Haval sub-brand has strong dealership representation across Australia, and parts availability for the H6 platform is established given the model’s longevity in market.
Pricing & Variants
| Variant | Type | EV Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haval H6GT (petrol) | Petrol | N/A | ~$38,990 |
| Haval H6GT PHEV | PHEV | ~180km | $43,990 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed | PHEV | 86km | ~$58,990 |
At $43,990, the H6GT PHEV represents strong value against the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which costs roughly $15,000 more for a shorter EV range. The $5,000 premium over the petrol H6GT is recoverable through fuel savings for drivers covering 150km or more per week in suburban conditions.
Performance
The PHEV system combines a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with an electric motor driving the rear axle, creating an AWD configuration where the petrol engine drives the front wheels and the electric motor handles the rear. Combined system output is 186kW - a meaningful step up from the petrol-only H6GT. The 0–100 km/h time of approximately 6.5 seconds is competitive for the segment, with electric torque fill from the motor eliminating the slight hesitation typical of turbopetrol engines at low revs.
Top speed is 175 km/h. In hybrid mode on the highway, the system blends engine and motor as load demands dictate.
Range and Charging
The 35.4kWh battery delivers approximately 180km of EV-only range under WLTP testing - plan for 140–160km in real-world conditions with climate control active. For the majority of Australian households averaging 30–50km of daily driving, this means plugging in a few times a week and rarely touching the petrol tank during the working week.
DC charging peaks at 48kW, putting 10–80% charge time at approximately 35–40 minutes. AC charging via 7.2kW wallbox takes around 5–6 hours from flat - conveniently charged overnight. The petrol engine provides unlimited range when the battery is depleted.
Interior and Technology
The H6GT PHEV carries over the GT’s interior package: a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a separate digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree camera system. Physical shortcut buttons flank the infotainment screen for commonly used functions.
The PHEV adds a dedicated energy management display and selectable drive modes: EV Only (uses battery exclusively), Hybrid (blends both power sources), Save Battery (preserves charge for later), and Sport (maximises system performance). Rear seat space is adult-adequate for a mid-size SUV.
Practicality
The H6GT PHEV seats five. Rear legroom is generous relative to the class - the H6GT’s wheelbase accommodates adults in the second row without compromise. Boot volume is reduced slightly versus the petrol H6GT due to battery packaging, though the remaining space is practical for family use.
Towing is rated at 1,500kg braked - suitable for small to medium trailers, camper trailers, and jet skis. No V2L or V2H capability is fitted; the battery is not accessible for external power export.
Safety
The H6GT PHEV is equipped with GWM’s AEB system (forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection), lane departure warning and lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with lane centring. The specification is appropriate for the class. Refer to ANCAP Australia for current crash test ratings on the H6 generation.
Running Costs and Ownership
Running cost estimate at $0.30/kWh using the PHEV formula: for daily electric driving, approximately $1.67/100km (35.4kWh ÷ 180km × 100 × $0.30). When petrol engine is used on highway, expect 6–7L/100km in hybrid mode. The combination represents a meaningful cost reduction versus a pure petrol SUV in the same class.
Warranty: 5 years/150,000km vehicle, 8 years/160,000km battery. Haval’s dealer network spans all capital cities and major regional centres.
Verdict
The GWM Haval H6GT PHEV’s 180km electric range fundamentally repositions it versus older PHEV generation products. This is not a token electric motor with 40km of battery - it is a genuine weekly-driver EV with a petrol backstop for longer journeys. At $43,990 with AWD and 186kW combined output, it undercuts European PHEV competitors significantly.
The limitations are the same as any PHEV: greater mechanical complexity than a pure EV or pure petrol vehicle, no V2L capability, and a DC charging speed that is useful but not fast. For buyers who have access to home charging and live in areas where petrol backup still matters, it is one of the stronger PHEV propositions in the Australian market at this price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can the GWM Haval H6GT PHEV travel on electricity alone?
The WLTP electric-only range is approximately 180km. In real-world conditions - accounting for climate control, varied speeds, and driving style - expect 140–160km per charge. This covers most Australian households’ weekly driving without consuming any petrol.
Does the GWM Haval H6GT PHEV have DC fast charging?
Yes. The H6GT PHEV supports DC fast charging at up to 48kW, which brings the battery from 10–80% in approximately 35–40 minutes at a compatible CCS2 charger. Home AC charging via a 7.2kW wallbox takes approximately 5–6 hours.
Can the GWM Haval H6GT PHEV tow a caravan?
Yes, the H6GT PHEV is rated for 1,500kg braked towing. This is suitable for light to mid-size camper trailers, jet skis, and small caravans. Buyers with heavier caravans should evaluate the Ford Ranger PHEV or other higher-rated alternatives.
