Haval Australia is working with local specialist Ironman 4×4 to develop revised suspension and tuning for its largest and most capable 4×4 the H9.
HAVAL’S UPDATED H9 is due to launch later this year and the Chinese brand has taken critical feedback of its current H9 model seriously. In particular, Haval has committed to improve ride and handling on the Australian H9 and has been collaborating with Aussie 4×4 specialist Ironman 4×4 to improve suspension tuning.
So far, the tuning program has only centred on the Haval H9 and not other SUVs the H2, H6 and H8. The tuning program is still ongoing and has seen the implementation of heavier springs, upgraded shock absorber valving (to match the springs) and adjustment to toe-in.
In response to feedback and critique of its initial H9 offering down under, Haval has endeavoured to not only listen to but implement suggested changes which could enhance the Chinese 4WD’s ability and suitability to local conditions. According to Haval Australia, the consideration of feedback and subsequent changes have been directed from the top: “Haval Australia continues to send feedback from media and customers to head office to drive ongoing updates to our model line-up,” said Andrew Ellis, PR and Product Planning Manager at Haval Australia..
“Haval management has always welcomed constructive criticism from the media”.
Haval claims the result of the local tuning program improves cornering and offers better compliance on the road. There are also other changes to the new H9 that come on the back of feedback and include removal of reverse camera voice commands and recalibration of the sometimes too intrusive Bosch ESC unit.
The updated H9 which due later this year will also feature revised styling and improved performance. Better tuning of its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol sees power increase from 160kW/324Nm to 180kW and 350Nm. The six-speed automatic has also been replaced with a ZF 8-speed automatic which in turn helps lower fuel consumption from 12.1/100km to 11.0L/100km. Acceleration is 20 per cent quicker, with the new claimed 0-100km/h taking 10.6 seconds.
It’s clear that Haval is committed to break into the Australian 4×4 market and has already invested considerable money to do so, which won’t put too much strain on the brand that sold over 1 million cars last year and made over 2 billion dollars in profit. The addition of its seven-seat H7 Down Under should only bolster sales further.
We’re driving the locally tuned and updated H9 this week and will publish our review soon.
READER QUESTION: Is Haval’s commitment to local tuning and changes, if well implemented, enough to entice you to consider buying one?
