We’ve seen a swag of new Chinese models in recent months and the competitive nature of the new vehicle market just gets more intense – and with continual price cuts and incentives one wonders where it will end up but the Chinese brands are intent on gaining significant market share in a short time. I’ve just driven GWM’s first plug-in hybrid – the Haval H6 GT Ultra PHEV SUV with an impressive electric only range of 180kms, combining a 1.5-liltre turbo-petrol engine with front and rear electric motors and a high voltage 35.4kWhour battery. This plug-in hybrid is $9,000 dearer to the pure petrol model, $53,990 drive-away plus a free wall charger for a limited period. Highly equipped and with numerous drive modes. This coupe-styled SUV is well built with more than acceptable quality but as a driver I did not enjoy it as much as the Jaecoo J7 SHS plug-in hybrid of a few weeks back. Part of the problem is that the Chinese want you to think you driving a computer on wheels – everything is activated by a touchscreen and its simply frustrating. Warranty 7-7years/unlimited km with battery warranty at 8-years. The Haval H6 GT Ultra PHEV offers much but for me there are better options.

IMAGE CREDIT / GWM Haval

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