New special-edition Haval H7 goes on sale in South Africa – Pricing and features

GWM has launched a special Black Edition of the Haval H7 in South Africa.

The SUV joins GWM’s expanding local SUV portfolio as a darker and more distinctive version of the existing H7.

“The H7 arrived in South Africa in January 2025 and quickly carved out a space in the competitive mid-size SUV segment,” says GWM.

“Its blend of performance, technology and value has since earned it a finalist spot in the South African Car of the Year Awards for 2025, underscoring the model’s growing reputation among local buyers.”

GWM is introducing the SUV in three specifications, priced from R604,950.

Power and drivetrains

Retaining the powertrain options currently available across the broader H7 range, the Black Edition is available as either a turbocharged petrol or turbo-hybrid. Both are fitted with an automatic gear swapper.

Buyers opting for the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine can expect 170kW and 380Nm in either a 4×2 or 4×4 configuration.

The front-wheel-drive option offers drivers an average fuel consumption of 8.1l/100km, while the four-wheel-drive variant ups this to 9.1l/100km.

The 1.5-litre turbo-hybrid model combines its petrol motor with an electric one, increasing power outputs to 179kW and 530Nm, and is only available in front-wheel-drive.

It must be noted that the hybrid system is much more efficient than the petrol motors, granting drivers a frugal usage of 5.7l/100km.

GWM notes that the torque advantage of the hybrid model gives it powerful, low-rpm pulling power, which comes in handy when carrying passengers, towing or tackling more demanding terrain.

For those drivers opting to tackle demanding terrains, the 4×4 H7’s intelligent drive system monitors traction and distributes torque where needed.

The special edition H7 also features seven selectable driving modes, namely Sport, Eco, Snow, Mud, Sand, Grass and uneven terrain.

These tailor throttle responses, traction control and torque distribution to suit varying conditions, enhancing both on and off-road stability.

Features

With the Black Edition range, GWM placed the emphasis on styling, introducing a suite of exterior details to give the SUV a more aggressive appearance.

Among the changes is a new blacked-out grille, redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails and mirror covers.

Its darker window trim and exclusive black exterior badging further reinforce what GWM is calling a “stealth-inspired theme”.

“The result is a more purposeful look that complements the H7’s upright proportions and rugged SUV stance,” says the Chinese carmaker.

On the inside, the Black Edition models feature the H7 range’s existing features, including heated and ventilated front leather seats, a heated multifunction steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof.

In the back, the SUV features seats that fold flat to expand cargo space, while its armrest cooling compartment adds practicality for long journeys.

The tech-heavy cabin features a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system alongside a 12.3-inch digital driver instrument cluster and head-up display.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 50W wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker DTS audio system complete the tech offerings.

As an adventure SUV, the H7 features a wide range of active safety and driver assistance systems.

These include Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Brake Assist, Traction Control and Roll Movement Intervention, as well as a Lane Departure Warning.

Advanced systems, including Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, use radar and camera technology to monitor the road ahead and intervene if necessary.

Pricing

Pricing for the Haval H7 Black Edition remains completely unchanged from the existing line-up:

• Haval H7 2.0T Luxury Black Edition – R604,950
• Haval H7 2.0T S-Luxury 4X4 Black Edition – R674,950
• Haval H7 1.5T HEV S-Luxury Black Edition – R734,950

Prices include a 7-year/200,000km warranty and a 7-year/75,000km service plan. Hybrid models also include an 8-year or 150,000km high-voltage battery warranty.

GWM Haval H7 Black Edition