GWM Haval H6 PHEV Arrives in Australia: Affordable, Power With 113Km Range and More

The 2025 GWM Haval H6 PHEV has officially made its debut in the Australian market, making waves with its sleek design, competitive pricing, and impressive plug-in hybrid (PHEV) credentials. As Great Wall Motors (GWM) ramps up its presence in the eco-friendly SUV space, the H6 PHEV is set to challenge well-established competitors, notably the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. But the question remains: can the H6 PHEV dethrone the reigning champion?

Under the Hood

The H6 PHEV combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 240kW of power and 530Nm of torque. This performance figure is significantly higher than many rivals in its class, providing an edge in acceleration and overall responsiveness.

One of the standout features is the 34kWh battery, which allows for up to 113km of electric-only driving—more than enough for most daily commutes without needing to engage the petrol engine. The powertrain is managed by GWM’s Direct Hybrid Transmission (DHT), which ensures a seamless transition between electric, hybrid, and petrol modes, optimizing efficiency on the fly.

Interior, Features, and Comfort

Inside the H6 PHEV, GWM delivers a premium feel with high-quality finishes. The cabin is outfitted with quilted leather seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 10.25-inch digital driver display. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered wirelessly, making it easy to stay connected while on the move.

The H6 PHEV also shines in terms of comfort and space. With ample rear-seat legroom and a generous 600L boot, the vehicle is practical for families or anyone needing extra cargo space. Advanced driver-assistance systems are also featured, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system, ensuring both safety and convenience.

How It Stacks Up Against the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

While the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has long been a popular choice in Australia, the GWM Haval H6 PHEV enters the fray with a compelling combination of lower pricing, better electric-only range, and a more powerful engine. Here’s how the two compare:

Feature	GWM Haval H6 PHEV (2025)	Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (2025)
Combined Power Output	240kW / 530Nm	185kW / 450Nm
Electric-Only Range (WLTP)	113km	84km
Battery Capacity	34kWh	20kWh
Starting Price (AUD)	Approx. $45,990 drive-away	Approx. $56,490 before on-roads
Touchscreen Display	12.3-inch	9-inch
AWD Capability	Yes	Yes

The H6 PHEV surpasses the Outlander PHEV in key areas such as power, electric-only range, and battery size. Plus, the H6’s more attractive pricing positions it as a highly competitive offering in the market.

Driving Impressions and Real-World Efficiency

Early test drives of the H6 PHEV show that it’s a smooth and responsive vehicle, particularly in electric-only mode. The transition between electric and hybrid driving modes is seamless, thanks to the DHT system. The vehicle is easy to drive, especially in urban environments, where it handles as a quiet, efficient cruiser. Regenerative braking and EV prioritization modes help improve overall efficiency, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.

The overall driving experience is highly refined, with ample power when needed, while the hybrid system ensures that fuel consumption is minimized without sacrificing performance.

Is It Enough to Dethrone the Outlander?

Although the GWM Haval H6 PHEV presents a compelling case with its innovative features, strong performance, and better value, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV still has an edge in some areas. The Outlander benefits from strong brand loyalty, a well-established dealer network, and a perception of long-term reliability that many Australian buyers value.

However, for buyers who prioritize innovation, a longer electric-only range, and overall value for money, the H6 PHEV offers an excellent alternative. As Australian interest in greener, more eco-friendly vehicles rises, the H6 PHEV could become a serious contender to the Outlander’s long-standing dominance in the market.

The 2025 GWM Haval H6 PHEV has made a bold entry into the hybrid SUV market. With its impressive electric range, higher performance output, and feature-rich cabin, it stands out as a highly competitive option at a price point that undercuts its rivals. While the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV still holds sway in terms of brand recognition and dealer support, the H6 PHEV’s well-rounded offering positions it as a serious challenger in the Australian market.

With the growing demand for greener vehicles in Australia, GWM’s Haval H6 PHEV is poised to make waves, and perhaps even challenge the status quo in the PHEV space.

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