2025 Chery C5: Smarter, smoother, sharper than ever
Meet the 2025 Chery C5, previously the Chery Omoda 5, only this one has had a proper glow-up for its mid-life refresh.
Gone is the confusion of multiple trim levels. Now, there's just two to choose from: the well-equipped Urban, and the fully loaded Ultimate you're looking at here. Simple. Sensible. And, honestly, it makes the buying process refreshingly easy.
First thing you'll notice? That grille. It's the latest take on Chery's signature diamond pattern, only it's way more refined this time – classy, even. It adds visual polish without losing that distinct Chery flavour – no pun intended. I especially like the LED light signature up front.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
On the Ultimate, you also get these great looking gloss black 18-inch alloys, enhanced by those striking red brake calipers behind them. It gives the C5 more polish without trying too hard.
None of those questionable red plastic accents that adorned the previous iteration, either.
Boot space has grown too, up to 370 litres with the second-row seats in place and nearly triple that when folded. More than enough to cater for busy lifestyles or loading up for family getaways.
But here's where it really gets interesting: multi-link rear suspension has been added. That's usually something you see in premium cars. What it means here is more composed handling and a more comfortable ride – especially when tackling speed pumps and uneven surfaces.
And the old CVT? That's gone too. Replaced with a far more sophisticated six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
And that alone changes the drive completely – it's smoother, more responsive, and noticeably quieter. You feel more connected to the car. It actually makes it feel more premium than its price point might suggest.
For the daily commute you can leave it in the default 'Normal' mode, but when you want to get moving with a tad more urgency, just tap the conveniently positioned drive mode button on the console for 'Sport'. There's even a nice rorty engine note.
The engine's still a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, which always had some welcome punch, but with the new gearbox power delivery is now more linear and even more immediate for a noticeably improved driving experience. It feels less strained on the steeper inclines, too, especially around town.
It's a very easy SUV to get comfortable with, given the light and easy steering weight, making it a cinch to park in tight and tricky spots.
On the fuel-efficiency front, Chery claims 6.9L/100km on 91 RON standard unleaded, so you won't be stretching the budget at the fuel bowser either.
Inside, there aren't any big changes – but honestly, there didn't need to be either, given it's still one of the most visually striking cabins in the small SUV segment, with big screens, plenty of soft-touch materials, and a premium look and feel that punches well above the price points.
And thankfully, Chery's exceedingly comfortable seats haven't changed either – just have a look at the level of detail that's gone into the design of these sumptuous chairs with contrast piping, which really impressed me on the previous model – and in fact in every Chery model I've driven to date. Softly cushioned, supportive, and a standout factor on longer drives.
Tech-wise, it's also generously stacked. You get dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that pairs in seconds, and voice control that works a treat.
Just say "Hello Chery" and you can get all four windows to open or close automatically, along with loads more commands that make it just so liveable.
Standard kit across the C5 lineup includes auto LED headlights, cornering fog lights, intelligent high-beam, heated folding mirrors, configurable ambient lighting that's especially good (and this extra light bar reminds me of BMW's ultra-lush iX), along with keyless entry and start with remote window control – even on the base Urban.
Oh, and all four windows are one-touch open and close. Make no mistake, these are properly premium features.
Step up to the Ultimate and you unlock more premium kit, like the 360-degree camera, power tailgate, sunroof with retractable shade, heated and synthetic leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate, even a frameless auto-dimming mirror. It's all there and then some.
Even the centre console looks top-shelf with a snazzy gear shift lever and two wireless phone pads. And there's a schmick, flat-bottom, three-spoke steering wheel that feels great to the touch and with plenty of shortcut functionality to it, too.
Safety's fully sorted too. There a five-star ANCAP rating and a full suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise, lane keeping, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and the very handy walk-away locking and walk-up unlocking for the ultimate convenience.
So what's the verdict?
Well, it drives better, feels more resolved, and still undercuts the competition on price, even though it's loaded with premium features.
But here's the real kicker. The Urban is yours for $29,990 drive-away, or it's $34,990 drive-away for the Ultimate. That's properly sharp value.
When you factor in Chery's seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, seven-years of capped-price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assist, it's the bargain of the year.
If you're looking for a small SUV that quietly nails the brief and looks and feels genuinely premium – and boasts excellent comfort, loads of features, the highest safety rating, and a drive that's stepped up – this new Chery C5 is guaranteed to win you over.
MORE: Everything Chery
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
SPONSORED
Meet the 2025 Chery C5, previously the Chery Omoda 5, only this one has had a proper glow-up for its mid-life refresh.
Gone is the confusion of multiple trim levels. Now, there's just two to choose from: the well-equipped Urban, and the fully loaded Ultimate you're looking at here. Simple. Sensible. And, honestly, it makes the buying process refreshingly easy.
First thing you'll notice? That grille. It's the latest take on Chery's signature diamond pattern, only it's way more refined this time – classy, even. It adds visual polish without losing that distinct Chery flavour – no pun intended. I especially like the LED light signature up front.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
On the Ultimate, you also get these great looking gloss black 18-inch alloys, enhanced by those striking red brake calipers behind them. It gives the C5 more polish without trying too hard.
None of those questionable red plastic accents that adorned the previous iteration, either.
Boot space has grown too, up to 370 litres with the second-row seats in place and nearly triple that when folded. More than enough to cater for busy lifestyles or loading up for family getaways.
But here's where it really gets interesting: multi-link rear suspension has been added. That's usually something you see in premium cars. What it means here is more composed handling and a more comfortable ride – especially when tackling speed pumps and uneven surfaces.
And the old CVT? That's gone too. Replaced with a far more sophisticated six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
And that alone changes the drive completely – it's smoother, more responsive, and noticeably quieter. You feel more connected to the car. It actually makes it feel more premium than its price point might suggest.
For the daily commute you can leave it in the default 'Normal' mode, but when you want to get moving with a tad more urgency, just tap the conveniently positioned drive mode button on the console for 'Sport'. There's even a nice rorty engine note.
The engine's still a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, which always had some welcome punch, but with the new gearbox power delivery is now more linear and even more immediate for a noticeably improved driving experience. It feels less strained on the steeper inclines, too, especially around town.
It's a very easy SUV to get comfortable with, given the light and easy steering weight, making it a cinch to park in tight and tricky spots.
On the fuel-efficiency front, Chery claims 6.9L/100km on 91 RON standard unleaded, so you won't be stretching the budget at the fuel bowser either.
Inside, there aren't any big changes – but honestly, there didn't need to be either, given it's still one of the most visually striking cabins in the small SUV segment, with big screens, plenty of soft-touch materials, and a premium look and feel that punches well above the price points.
And thankfully, Chery's exceedingly comfortable seats haven't changed either – just have a look at the level of detail that's gone into the design of these sumptuous chairs with contrast piping, which really impressed me on the previous model – and in fact in every Chery model I've driven to date. Softly cushioned, supportive, and a standout factor on longer drives.
Tech-wise, it's also generously stacked. You get dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that pairs in seconds, and voice control that works a treat.
Just say "Hello Chery" and you can get all four windows to open or close automatically, along with loads more commands that make it just so liveable.
Standard kit across the C5 lineup includes auto LED headlights, cornering fog lights, intelligent high-beam, heated folding mirrors, configurable ambient lighting that's especially good (and this extra light bar reminds me of BMW's ultra-lush iX), along with keyless entry and start with remote window control – even on the base Urban.
Oh, and all four windows are one-touch open and close. Make no mistake, these are properly premium features.
Step up to the Ultimate and you unlock more premium kit, like the 360-degree camera, power tailgate, sunroof with retractable shade, heated and synthetic leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate, even a frameless auto-dimming mirror. It's all there and then some.
Even the centre console looks top-shelf with a snazzy gear shift lever and two wireless phone pads. And there's a schmick, flat-bottom, three-spoke steering wheel that feels great to the touch and with plenty of shortcut functionality to it, too.
Safety's fully sorted too. There a five-star ANCAP rating and a full suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise, lane keeping, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and the very handy walk-away locking and walk-up unlocking for the ultimate convenience.
So what's the verdict?
Well, it drives better, feels more resolved, and still undercuts the competition on price, even though it's loaded with premium features.
But here's the real kicker. The Urban is yours for $29,990 drive-away, or it's $34,990 drive-away for the Ultimate. That's properly sharp value.
When you factor in Chery's seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, seven-years of capped-price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assist, it's the bargain of the year.
If you're looking for a small SUV that quietly nails the brief and looks and feels genuinely premium – and boasts excellent comfort, loads of features, the highest safety rating, and a drive that's stepped up – this new Chery C5 is guaranteed to win you over.
MORE: Everything Chery
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
SPONSORED
Meet the 2025 Chery C5, previously the Chery Omoda 5, only this one has had a proper glow-up for its mid-life refresh.
Gone is the confusion of multiple trim levels. Now, there's just two to choose from: the well-equipped Urban, and the fully loaded Ultimate you're looking at here. Simple. Sensible. And, honestly, it makes the buying process refreshingly easy.
First thing you'll notice? That grille. It's the latest take on Chery's signature diamond pattern, only it's way more refined this time – classy, even. It adds visual polish without losing that distinct Chery flavour – no pun intended. I especially like the LED light signature up front.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
On the Ultimate, you also get these great looking gloss black 18-inch alloys, enhanced by those striking red brake calipers behind them. It gives the C5 more polish without trying too hard.
None of those questionable red plastic accents that adorned the previous iteration, either.
Boot space has grown too, up to 370 litres with the second-row seats in place and nearly triple that when folded. More than enough to cater for busy lifestyles or loading up for family getaways.
But here's where it really gets interesting: multi-link rear suspension has been added. That's usually something you see in premium cars. What it means here is more composed handling and a more comfortable ride – especially when tackling speed pumps and uneven surfaces.
And the old CVT? That's gone too. Replaced with a far more sophisticated six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
And that alone changes the drive completely – it's smoother, more responsive, and noticeably quieter. You feel more connected to the car. It actually makes it feel more premium than its price point might suggest.
For the daily commute you can leave it in the default 'Normal' mode, but when you want to get moving with a tad more urgency, just tap the conveniently positioned drive mode button on the console for 'Sport'. There's even a nice rorty engine note.
The engine's still a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, which always had some welcome punch, but with the new gearbox power delivery is now more linear and even more immediate for a noticeably improved driving experience. It feels less strained on the steeper inclines, too, especially around town.
It's a very easy SUV to get comfortable with, given the light and easy steering weight, making it a cinch to park in tight and tricky spots.
On the fuel-efficiency front, Chery claims 6.9L/100km on 91 RON standard unleaded, so you won't be stretching the budget at the fuel bowser either.
Inside, there aren't any big changes – but honestly, there didn't need to be either, given it's still one of the most visually striking cabins in the small SUV segment, with big screens, plenty of soft-touch materials, and a premium look and feel that punches well above the price points.
And thankfully, Chery's exceedingly comfortable seats haven't changed either – just have a look at the level of detail that's gone into the design of these sumptuous chairs with contrast piping, which really impressed me on the previous model – and in fact in every Chery model I've driven to date. Softly cushioned, supportive, and a standout factor on longer drives.
Tech-wise, it's also generously stacked. You get dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that pairs in seconds, and voice control that works a treat.
Just say "Hello Chery" and you can get all four windows to open or close automatically, along with loads more commands that make it just so liveable.
Standard kit across the C5 lineup includes auto LED headlights, cornering fog lights, intelligent high-beam, heated folding mirrors, configurable ambient lighting that's especially good (and this extra light bar reminds me of BMW's ultra-lush iX), along with keyless entry and start with remote window control – even on the base Urban.
Oh, and all four windows are one-touch open and close. Make no mistake, these are properly premium features.
Step up to the Ultimate and you unlock more premium kit, like the 360-degree camera, power tailgate, sunroof with retractable shade, heated and synthetic leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate, even a frameless auto-dimming mirror. It's all there and then some.
Even the centre console looks top-shelf with a snazzy gear shift lever and two wireless phone pads. And there's a schmick, flat-bottom, three-spoke steering wheel that feels great to the touch and with plenty of shortcut functionality to it, too.
Safety's fully sorted too. There a five-star ANCAP rating and a full suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise, lane keeping, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and the very handy walk-away locking and walk-up unlocking for the ultimate convenience.
So what's the verdict?
Well, it drives better, feels more resolved, and still undercuts the competition on price, even though it's loaded with premium features.
But here's the real kicker. The Urban is yours for $29,990 drive-away, or it's $34,990 drive-away for the Ultimate. That's properly sharp value.
When you factor in Chery's seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, seven-years of capped-price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assist, it's the bargain of the year.
If you're looking for a small SUV that quietly nails the brief and looks and feels genuinely premium – and boasts excellent comfort, loads of features, the highest safety rating, and a drive that's stepped up – this new Chery C5 is guaranteed to win you over.
MORE: Everything Chery
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
SPONSORED
Meet the 2025 Chery C5, previously the Chery Omoda 5, only this one has had a proper glow-up for its mid-life refresh.
Gone is the confusion of multiple trim levels. Now, there's just two to choose from: the well-equipped Urban, and the fully loaded Ultimate you're looking at here. Simple. Sensible. And, honestly, it makes the buying process refreshingly easy.
First thing you'll notice? That grille. It's the latest take on Chery's signature diamond pattern, only it's way more refined this time – classy, even. It adds visual polish without losing that distinct Chery flavour – no pun intended. I especially like the LED light signature up front.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
On the Ultimate, you also get these great looking gloss black 18-inch alloys, enhanced by those striking red brake calipers behind them. It gives the C5 more polish without trying too hard.
None of those questionable red plastic accents that adorned the previous iteration, either.
Boot space has grown too, up to 370 litres with the second-row seats in place and nearly triple that when folded. More than enough to cater for busy lifestyles or loading up for family getaways.
But here's where it really gets interesting: multi-link rear suspension has been added. That's usually something you see in premium cars. What it means here is more composed handling and a more comfortable ride – especially when tackling speed pumps and uneven surfaces.
And the old CVT? That's gone too. Replaced with a far more sophisticated six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
And that alone changes the drive completely – it's smoother, more responsive, and noticeably quieter. You feel more connected to the car. It actually makes it feel more premium than its price point might suggest.
For the daily commute you can leave it in the default 'Normal' mode, but when you want to get moving with a tad more urgency, just tap the conveniently positioned drive mode button on the console for 'Sport'. There's even a nice rorty engine note.
The engine's still a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, which always had some welcome punch, but with the new gearbox power delivery is now more linear and even more immediate for a noticeably improved driving experience. It feels less strained on the steeper inclines, too, especially around town.
It's a very easy SUV to get comfortable with, given the light and easy steering weight, making it a cinch to park in tight and tricky spots.
On the fuel-efficiency front, Chery claims 6.9L/100km on 91 RON standard unleaded, so you won't be stretching the budget at the fuel bowser either.
Inside, there aren't any big changes – but honestly, there didn't need to be either, given it's still one of the most visually striking cabins in the small SUV segment, with big screens, plenty of soft-touch materials, and a premium look and feel that punches well above the price points.
And thankfully, Chery's exceedingly comfortable seats haven't changed either – just have a look at the level of detail that's gone into the design of these sumptuous chairs with contrast piping, which really impressed me on the previous model – and in fact in every Chery model I've driven to date. Softly cushioned, supportive, and a standout factor on longer drives.
Tech-wise, it's also generously stacked. You get dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that pairs in seconds, and voice control that works a treat.
Just say "Hello Chery" and you can get all four windows to open or close automatically, along with loads more commands that make it just so liveable.
Standard kit across the C5 lineup includes auto LED headlights, cornering fog lights, intelligent high-beam, heated folding mirrors, configurable ambient lighting that's especially good (and this extra light bar reminds me of BMW's ultra-lush iX), along with keyless entry and start with remote window control – even on the base Urban.
Oh, and all four windows are one-touch open and close. Make no mistake, these are properly premium features.
Step up to the Ultimate and you unlock more premium kit, like the 360-degree camera, power tailgate, sunroof with retractable shade, heated and synthetic leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate, even a frameless auto-dimming mirror. It's all there and then some.
Even the centre console looks top-shelf with a snazzy gear shift lever and two wireless phone pads. And there's a schmick, flat-bottom, three-spoke steering wheel that feels great to the touch and with plenty of shortcut functionality to it, too.
Safety's fully sorted too. There a five-star ANCAP rating and a full suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise, lane keeping, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and the very handy walk-away locking and walk-up unlocking for the ultimate convenience.
So what's the verdict?
Well, it drives better, feels more resolved, and still undercuts the competition on price, even though it's loaded with premium features.
But here's the real kicker. The Urban is yours for $29,990 drive-away, or it's $34,990 drive-away for the Ultimate. That's properly sharp value.
When you factor in Chery's seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, seven-years of capped-price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assist, it's the bargain of the year.
If you're looking for a small SUV that quietly nails the brief and looks and feels genuinely premium – and boasts excellent comfort, loads of features, the highest safety rating, and a drive that's stepped up – this new Chery C5 is guaranteed to win you over.
MORE: Everything Chery
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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2025 GWM Haval H6 review
GWM is a brand on the rise in Australia, and the Haval H6 has played an instrumental role in its success. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert The cheap and mostly cheerful mid-size SUV first arrived in 2021 and has since become a sales darling. GWM has shifted more 35,000 examples since launch and that number is set to rise quickly with the introduction of this – the refreshed Haval H6. Updated styling, new tech, a more powerful petrol engine, and new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants headline the changes for 2025. Pricing remains competitive, too. There's just one problem – the Haval H6 may be a growing fish, but it's swimming in a very, very big pond. Mid-size SUVs are the most popular new-vehicle type in Australia, where the segment is jam-packed with family favourites including the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5, as well as cheaper challengers like the Chery Tiggo 7 and MG HS. Does the upgraded Haval H6 have what it takes to stand out from the crowd? We put the Ultra Hybrid to the test to find out. GWM has trimmed Haval H6 prices across the board, although the base price has actually risen by $2000 due to the axing of the entry-level Premium grades. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert The now entry-level Lux is $1000 cheaper than before, though GWM is continuing to offer stock of the pre-update Lux at $3000 off. Likewise, the Lux Hybrid is now $1500 cheaper than before, but $3000 more expensive if you consider runout offers. Our test vehicle for this review is the Ultra Hybrid, which slots in below both new plug-in hybrid versions of the H6. To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The interior of the updated Haval H6 is an example of evolution, rather than revolution. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert The gear selector has been moved to the steering column, while a new 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen replaces the old 10.25- and 12.3-inch units. There's a thicker steering wheel with sculpted indentations at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions, while our tester presented in the new optional cream interior colour scheme. All the aforementioned tweaks add value to the space, although most buyers would be wise to stay away from the bright yet easily dirtied cream interior. Measuring in at 14.6 inches, the centre infotainment screen is bigger and certainly better, but not without flaws. Despite featuring GWM's latest-generation operating system, the screen sometimes takes a while to boot up after starting the vehicle, and upsizing the display also seems to have had a negative impact on the sharpness of the graphics. The integration of wireless smartphone mirroring is convenient, yet I found wireless CarPlay to be less responsive than other native screen functions. At least CarPlay takes up the full screen – it's rare to experience nearly 15 inches worth of iPhone projection at this price point. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Staying connected is also made easier by the relocation of the wireless phone charger to a more accessible location. The charger itself has been upgraded from 15W to 50W, and an additional pair of USB-A outlets can be found underneath the central bridge. If you prefer to disconnect while driving, the native system offers all the basics in a user-friendly package. A selection of handy shortcuts to key functions are pinned to the right side of the screen, although they disappear if you delve into Apple CarPlay. A separate set of 'quick keys' can be accessed by swiping down on the screen at any time. 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Amenities in the second row include a pair of USB outlets (both varieties), map pockets, door bins, and a centre armrest with integrated cupholders. If cargo capacity is more of a priority, then the rear bench folds completely flat to increase boot space from 560 litres to 1445L. Even with both rows of seating in use, there's plenty of room to stash your stuff. A hands-free powered tailgate is standard on all variants bar the base petrol Lux. However, a spare wheel is absent, instead replaced by a tyre repair kit. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool There are now petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains on offer. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Hybrid You can no longer get all-wheel drive with the petrol engine, though the petrol engine has received a bump in outputs of 20kW and 60Nm, to totals of 170kW and 380Nm. It has also swapped its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in favour of a nine-speed unit. The hybrid is unchanged, while there are new front- and all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid variants offering up to 106km of electric-only range. Over a week of urban testing, our hybrid tester consumed an average of 7.0 litres per 100km. To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool There's no mistaking that this Haval H6 is a hybrid. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert It slinks away silently in EV mode, emitting only a faint whir at low speeds. The steering feels light and natural, while the elevated driving position offers excellent visibility out the front windscreen and side windows. So far, so good. But it didn't take long for a problem to present itself – the indicator stalk. Annoyingly, it doesn't physically lock into place for a full signal, making it hard to distinguish between indicator modes. As such, I often found myself trying to cancel a right signal only to accidentally indicate left. It's an unnecessary nuisance that quickly grows frustrating during day-to-day driving. Then there's the throttle mapping. Although the H6 is a proper hybrid with punchy specs on paper, real-world performance is mixed. From a standstill, it struggles to put its power down effectively. It's all too easy to spin the front wheels if you apply any more than moderate pressure to the throttle pedal, which undermines both performance and safety. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Once you're moving, however, acceleration is brisk and much more predictable. Indeed, if speed was measured solely on rolling acceleration, the Haval H6 would best most traditional hybrid SUVs. The dedicated hybrid transmission works well, with a seamless transition between electric and petrol power. That interplay between the power sources also renders the Haval H6 Hybrid an efficient option in the market. GWM claims it'll sip an average of 5.2 litres per 100km, and we achieved 7.0L/100km over a week of mostly urban driving. Sure, a RAV4 will be slightly more frugal, but it also doesn't pack the same punch. Beyond efficiency, you get up to 1000km driving range courtesy of a generous 61L fuel tank. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Compared to cheaper alternatives, this Haval H6 Hybrid rides firmer and feels more controlled, and that's a good thing. It's not overly floaty over undulating tarmac, instead remaining relatively flat while soaking up harsh impacts. That's not to say this is a sporty vehicle – far from it – but it strikes the right balance between comfort and composure for daily driving. The Haval H6 Hybrid also feels at home on the highway, where its struggles in stop-start driving fade away. There's more than enough power under your right foot to keep up with traffic and perform high-speed overtakes, something that can't be said of all mainstream family SUVs. Semi-autonomous driving is also possible, should you prefer a more relaxed journey. The adaptive cruise control and active lane centring systems work together harmoniously… once you figure out how to use them – it took me a moment to figure out that you need to press the 'set cruise' button twice to active assisted driving. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert As is the modern way, the Haval H6 is loaded with active driver assist systems (ADAS). For the most part, they've been executed well. The driver fatigue monitoring system worked flawlessly throughout my test, and the overspeed warning function is more tolerant than most. However, the forward collision warning system is a little sensitive, often issuing false alarms. To counteract that, the infotainment system offers extensive configurability, allowing owners to tweak nearly every safety and assistance feature. With that said, some settings don't persist after restarting the car, so you'll need to make those adjustments every time you drive. All versions of the Haval H6 get high-resolution surround-view cameras, which are among the best going around. If that wasn't enough, the car will also park itself, if you're that way inclined. To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool There are two trim levels in the 2025 GWM Haval H6 lineup. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Ultra Hybrid 2025 GWM Haval H6 Lux equipment highlights: 19-inch black alloy wheels Automatic LED headlights Automatic high-beam Rain-sensing wipers Power-folding, heated exterior mirrors Puddle lights Electronic parking brake + auto hold Hands-free power tailgate (excludes petrol Lux) Proximity entry with push-button start 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto DAB+ digital radio 8-speaker sound system 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster Microfibre, leather-wrapped steering wheel 4-way steering column adjustment Leatherette upholstery 6-way power driver's seat Dual-zone climate control with rear vents 50W wireless phone charger 2 x front USB outlets 2 x rear USB outlets 2 x 12V outlets (1 x front, 1 x boot) Cargo cover The Ultra adds: Rear privacy glass Panoramic sunroof Semi-autonomous parking and reverse assist (excludes PHEV) Head-up display Heated steering wheel Heated and ventilated front seats Driver's seat memory and welcome Driver's seat lumbar 4-way power passenger seat Front stainless steel scuff plates 8-speaker (hybrid) or 9-speaker (petrol, PHEV) sound system To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The Haval H6 petrol and hybrid lineup has a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2022, though this excludes the new PHEV variants which are currently unrated. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Adaptive cruise control Autonomous emergency braking Blind-spot monitoring Driver fatigue monitoring Lane-keep assist Emergency lane-keep assist Rear cross-traffic alert Surround-view camera with 180 degree transparent chassis mode Rear parking sensors Traffic sign recongition Tyre pressure monitoring 7 airbags – 2 x front, 2 x side, 2 x curtain, 1 x centre Ultra variants also feature front parking sensors. To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The GWM Haval H6 is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre battery warranty. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, aside from the first service which is due at 10,000km. Service pricing is capped for the first five years of ownership, although the exact figure varies depending on powertrain. Base petrol variants are the cheapest to service at $2110 over the first five years, while PHEVs are slightly dearer at $2220 over the same period. To see how the GWM Haval H6 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The updated GWM Haval H6 is a marked improvement over its predecessor, but lingering issues prevent it from being a segment standout in hybrid guise. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert The building blocks of an excellent affordable SUV are here, including a powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain, spacious and well-appointed interior, and cutting-edge tech. But it's tough to confidently recommend a vehicle that neglects some of the basics, like appropriate throttle mapping and comfortable seating. The good news for SUV buyers in 2025 is that there's an abundance of choice, even at the affordable end of the market. If you're interested in a Haval H6, you might find that the cheaper Chery Tiggo 7 offers better value. Otherwise, lower-spec versions of the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4 mightn't offer as much on paper, but they're both capable options. If your heart is set on a Haval H6, I'd actually be inclined to drop down to the turbo-petrol Ultra, which promises better value and the possibility of a better urban driving experience. 2025 GWM Haval H6 Credit: CarExpert Interested in buying an GWM Haval H6? Let CarExpert find you the best deal here MORE: Explore the GWM Haval H6 showroom Quiet, efficient hybrid powertrain Roomy second row, boot Ultra wants for little More competition than ever Hybrid sometimes struggles to put its power down Uncomfortable front seats
Perth Now
3 hours ago
- Perth Now
Suzuki Vitara, S-Cross axed in major Australian market
Suzuki may be bringing a traditional 'full' hybrid version of its Vitara to Australia, but it won't be offered in Queensland or the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. Likewise, in this part of the country the axe has fallen on Suzuki's other small SUV, the S-Cross. 'At this stage, once our current stock of Vitara and S-Cross is gone, we don't intend to bring it back,' Suzuki Queensland general manager Paul Dillon told CarExpert. 'Maybe down the track [if] Suzuki come up with another upgrade, we might review it down the track. But at this stage, we're not planning on bringing Vitara and S-Cross back. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'They do have a hybrid version, but we're not planning on [bringing it],' he added, noting the Vitara Hybrid had already been confirmed for a first-quarter 2026 launch by Suzuki Australia. But why is Suzuki Queensland axing two small SUVs when the segment has continued to grow? 'Vitara has been in our market for quite a while, so it's not a decision we've made lightly. But we have to assess what works in our market, and at the moment Vitara Hybrid on paper doesn't work in our market,' explained Mr Dillon. 'There wasn't a lot of demand for [the Vitara Hybrid], and if you look at VFACTS that's an extremely competitive segment of the market and it just wasn't selling the volume we needed to sell and wasn't achieving the goals we needed to achieve,' Mr Dillon continued. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Shipments to Australia of the petrol-powered Vitara and S-Cross ceased earlier this year because the outgoing models were not compliant with new Australian Design Rules (ADRs) surrounding autonomous emergency braking (AEB). It's expected that when shipments of the Vitara resume, they will be solely hybrid-powered vehicles, with petrol Vitaras axed nationwide. The S-Cross' Australian future appears less certain, with Suzuki Australia not confirming local launch timing. That will leave Suzuki Queensland showrooms with just three models: the Jimny compact off-roader, Swift light hatch, and the just-launched Fronx light SUV. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Ignis and Swift Sport have been axed nationwide, and Suzuki is running out existing stock. The eVitara electric SUV's launch in Queensland isn't set in stone, though Mr Dillon said: 'it's certainly our intention [to release it] assuming the numbers from Japan stack up'. Suzuki Australia, in contrast, has confirmed the electric SUV for release in the first quarter of 2026. While Suzuki is losing models locally, the company's Queensland distributor has teased new product in the pipeline. 'They've come out and shown us some product. It's probably too early for us to talk about at this stage, but another SUV that kind of looks like the eVitara but maybe not electric. Hybrid,' said Mr Dillon. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'We've certainly asked for consideration of that car when it becomes available. It's still in development at this stage. 'They've got another light electric car coming down the path, maybe another year.' The current, Hungarian-built S-Cross launched here in 2022, but it was a heavy update of a model that entered production in 2013. Suzuki Australia had previously confirmed it would bring a hybrid version of the S-Cross to Australia in 2024, but it never eventuated. The Vitara is almost as old, entering production in 2015 and receiving a Series II update in 2019. Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Updated Vitara Hybrid A hybrid version was also confirmed for a 2024 launch, before being delayed to the first quarter of 2025 and then to the first quarter of 2026. In the UK, the Vitara Hybrid features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 75kW of power and 101Nm of torque, mated with a 24.6kW electric motor and a six-speed automated manual transmission. It's offered with either front- or all-wheel drive. Claimed fuel economy is between 5.0L/100km and 5.6L/100km, but it's significantly slower than the 1.4-litre mild-hybrid also offered in the UK. Suzuki UK claims a 0-100km/h time of 12.7 seconds with front-wheel drive and 13.5 seconds with all-wheel drive, against sprint times of 9.5 and 10.2 seconds for the mild-hybrid. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Both the Vitara and S-Cross sit in the Small SUV segment in VFACTS sales reports, but the Vitara has always been a stronger seller in Australia. Last year Suzuki recorded 2934 deliveries nationwide of the Vitara (up 45.5 per cent) against 706 for the S-Cross (up 18.1 per cent). That saw the Vitara outsell rivals like the Toyota C-HR (2828) and Skoda Kamiq (1284), and record its best sales year since 2022 when Suzuki shifted 3114 examples. MORE: Explore the Suzuki Vitara showroom MORE: Explore the Suzuki S-Cross showroom
7NEWS
3 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Toyota MR2 may be delayed due to 'braking, steering, and driving' difficulties
The return of the Toyota MR2 may be delayed as the company is having troubles sorting out the driving dynamics of its mid-engine Yaris race car. Toyota unveiled the GR Yaris M Concept (top and below)at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon in January, which featured the company's new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mounted behind the rear seats and driving the rear wheels. At the concept's unveiling, the company said the concept would be developed and honed by racing it in the Super Taikyu endurance series. It was hinted the race-bred mid-engine platform might then be used in a production car, widely believed to be the long-awaited successor to the MR2. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Over the weekend, Toyota announced it wouldn't enter the Yaris M in the fifth race of the Super Taikyu series at Autopolis due to 'difficulties unique to midship-mounted vehicles in terms of braking, steering, and driving'. The car maker said it was still committed to entering the car in future races, but didn't commit to when this might happen. The new 2.0-litre turbo powering the Yaris M is reportedly set to do duty in the upcoming front-wheel drive Celica, as well as the mid-engine MR2. According to Japanese magazine Best Car the engine will make 221kW/400Nm in base spec, and around 294kW/550Nm in performance guise. A racing version of the engine could output as much as 441kW. It's unclear if the delay will impact just the MR2, or the Celica as well. Production of the Celica ended in 2006 as affordable sporty coupes fell out of favour across the world. Although it's now remembered a front-wheel drive model, it wasn't until the fourth generation launched in 1985 it made the switch to the layout. The axe fell on the MR2 in 2007, with the third generation roadster never gaining the sales or the cult status bestowed on the boxy original or the Ferrari-lite successor.
