Officially launched a few months ago, it seems that many netizens have overlooked the fact that we actually have an equally impressive family SUV alternative— the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.
We were given the opportunity to test drive this hybrid SUV at the end of last year, and we were quite satisfied with the package offered to consumers in Malaysia.
However, there are a few aspects that we found less favorable about the Santa Fe Hybrid, which could influence potential buyers’ decisions regarding its purchase.
1. Exterior Design That’s Too Bold for Some
Most family SUVs on the market tend to have a more conservative design approach that isn’t overly prominent.
This is not the case for the Santa Fe Hybrid, which, in its facelifted version, features a rather bold front end that some might find too aggressive.
Children with strong imaginations might see the Santa Fe Hybrid as a giant fish waiting to devour its prey.
2. Relatively Low Position of the Turn Signal Lights at the Rear
I personally appreciate the modern and simplistic design of the rear light units.
However, it would be preferable if the turn signal function were incorporated into the main light housing.
Their relatively low position may lead some road users to overlook a driver’s intention to change lanes, even when the signal has been activated for a few seconds.
This contrasts sharply with the front view, where the turn signal lights, resembling graphic hammers, are bright and clear.
3. Cabin Design That Looks Outdated
Many manufacturers have started adopting a more simplistic and minimalist design approach for cabin interiors.
Unfortunately, this is not the case with the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, which displays a design that feels several years behind that of its competitors.
This is largely because the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid still relies on a generation that is now one step behind; specifically, the fourth generation that was introduced to the global market in 2018.
In contrast, several markets around the world, particularly in ASEAN, such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore, have already begun offering the fifth generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe, which is far more sophisticated and modern-looking than the Santa Fe Hybrid available in Malaysia.
As a family head looking for a comfortable car/SUV packed with modern conveniences, several models from Japan and China are likely on your consideration list.
In addition to well-known Japanese brand SUVs that have a good reputation for reliability, there are now family SUVs from China that are significantly cheaper and offer more modern safety specifications.
However, many may forget that we actually have another family SUV model from a South Korean brand—the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.
Officially (and quietly) launched in September last year, the facelifted Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid can be positioned as an alternative for those who want something different from the usual choices available in Malaysia.
With a selling price of RM215,800, is the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid significantly better than competing models? Here are our first driving impressions after spending a short period with it:
1. Facelift – More Than Just a Cosmetic Change
For your information, the ‘new’ Santa Fe Hybrid launched a few months ago is not a completely new generation model.
It is classified as a facelift model, featuring an updated front end with a wider grille and LED headlights resembling the hammer graphic associated with Volvo models, which tends to make heads turn when spotted on the road.
At the rear, the LED lights have been revamped with a more elegant geometric pattern, complemented by a horizontal LED bar connecting both light housings.
Yes, while the Santa Fe is a facelift model, the significant changes are actually hidden beneath its elegant exterior. It uses an all-new platform that has improved safety aspects, handling, fuel efficiency, and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels.
It is quite rare for a facelift model to come with an entirely new platform.
2. Cabin Space Features
One crucial aspect necessary for a comfortable family car is a spacious and comfortable cabin.
The Santa Fe Hybrid meets these needs with comfortable seating in the second and third rows, as well as a cargo space that can be maximized for various uses.
One feature we particularly liked is the third-row seating that can be folded down by simply pressing a button, along with separate air conditioning vents to ensure rear passengers remain comfortable throughout the journey.
Additionally, there are USB charging ports and power sockets available to charge electronic devices and smart gadgets.
For the driver, the Santa Fe Hybrid provides a digital cluster screen with the option for easy-to-read analog meter graphics, as well as an eight-inch infotainment screen complete with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support.
The center console has been raised to function as a more comfortable armrest, also providing hidden storage space under the dashboard.
Moreover, the use of simpler PRND buttons in place of a traditional gear shift lever gives the cockpit a more spacious look.
The large functional button cluster also facilitates easy adjustments to settings such as the air conditioning system, drive modes, or simply ensuring front passengers are more comfortable with built-in heating and ventilation functions for the seats.
While the cabin layout of the Santa Fe may not be as minimalist as newer modern cars, it doesn’t prompt excessive complaints, particularly when searching for or adjusting desired functions.
3. Highly Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Engine
The Santa Fe Hybrid we tested is powered by a 1.6-liter Smartstream G1.6 T-GDI inline four-cylinder engine that produces 180 PS at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm of torque at 1,500-4,400 rpm.
This engine is coupled with a 60 PS electric motor that provides 264 Nm of torque, bringing the total power output to 230 PS and 350 Nm.
While it may not be the most powerful SUV like a sports car, it is sufficiently capable of moving its relatively large body.
In terms of driving, the Santa Fe Hybrid offers lively initial acceleration to outpace sporty-looking cars next to it, while also delivering impressively economical fuel consumption.
We were unable to empty a full 67-liter RON95 tank in the Santa Fe Hybrid due to time constraints; however, according to Hyundai, this SUV can go up to 1,000 km before needing a refill.
Our short drive came close to 300 km, yet the fuel gauge barely registered a decrease.
4. Driving and Comfort
One of the advantages of the Santa Fe Hybrid is its ability to operate in electric driving mode at low speeds, and for relatively long distances as well.
This is a significant factor in the SUV’s fuel efficiency, as during most city driving, only the electric motor is in use, with the 1.6-liter turbo engine occasionally kicking in just to ensure that the 1.49 kWh battery maintains sufficient charge.
Moreover, in EV mode, the Santa Fe Hybrid does not operate entirely silently; it emits a futuristic warning sound to alert pedestrians of its presence on the road.
What we can praise about this hybrid SUV is the driving dynamics and handling, which are noticeably better compared to Chinese-made SUVs.
Why do we often emphasize good steering and suspension tuning? All of this contributes to the comfort of both the driver and passengers.
With a steering system that is responsive and not overly artificial, the driver will not feel excessively fatigued after a long journey.
The slightly firmer suspension tuning enhances cornering confidence, while still effectively filtering out the roughness that exists on beloved Malaysian roads. The result is a remarkably comfortable ride, regardless of the road quality encountered.
Most notably, the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) performance is exceptional, as we found it difficult to perceive any roughness, vibrations, or exterior noise inside the cabin.
Even though the turbo engine operates from time to time—especially when the right foot is pressed firmly to the floor—the engine sound is not intrusive within the cabin. The transition between engine and electric motor operation is also very smooth, making it sometimes difficult to detect.
5. Safety Features
As standard, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid comes equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), offering semi-autonomous driving support to ensure a safer and more reassuring driving experience.
A unique feature we appreciate in the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is the Blind-Spot Monitor (BVM), where the display for the left or right blind spot appears on the digital cluster screen to assist with safe lane changes.
What we find particularly valuable about this function is that it provides only the necessary information for the driver to detect the presence of objects from behind, rather than a bird’s-eye view perspective that is often unhelpful.
Another important feature for families is the Rear Occupant Alert, which ensures you do not forget any young children seated in the back when leaving the vehicle in a parking spot, especially in hot weather conditions.
6. Price that Might Be Out of Budget
Despite its various advantages over competing models, a significant drawback of the Santa Fe Hybrid is its selling price, which may be beyond the means of some buyers.
At RM215,800, not many will consider it a budget-friendly purchase.
In fact, for a lower price, one could opt for a non-hybrid three-row SUV such as the Mazda CX-8 or Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, or a mild-hybrid SUV like the Proton X90.
For those with small family members, there are still hybrid SUV options with a five-seat configuration, such as the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV, Haval H6 HEV, or Honda CR-V e:HEV.
However, for those who can afford it and desire something different, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid may still be a purchase that brings a smile and is appreciated by the whole family.
On a global scale, the trend of electric vehicle ownership appears to be slowing down.
Major automotive manufacturers worldwide are starting to pull the handbrake and make a U-turn to resume producing fossil fuel vehicles for their customers.
What is certain is that this “ancient” technology has not yet reached its end point and is now being enhanced with the help of hybrid systems for longer ranges compared to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and certainly compared to pure internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
One of the hybrid vehicles made in China that has already entered the Malaysian market is the Haval H6 HEV.
Officially launched a few months ago, the Haval H6 HEV is a newcomer in the C-segment SUV category, competing against rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Proton X70.
Apart from its size, the Haval H6 HEV also comes with an attractive price package—RM139,800—making it as more affordable compared to the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.
Will this low pricing strategy be enough to attract buyers away from the Corolla Cross, or the more sophisticated CR-V?
We managed to obtain a test drive unit of the Haval H6 HEV for a few days, and here are our findings:
1. Exterior Design
Among the C-segment SUVs available, the Haval H6 HEV features a relatively safe design.
There are no aggressive sharp lines; the design is rounded, but not excessively so like the Proton X70.
The front end looks fierce with the presence of LED headlights and a wide ‘Star Matrix’ grille, though the 19-inch wheels appear somewhat small beneath the SUV’s wheel arches.
At the rear, it boasts a full-width LED light bar, along with a cluster of four brake lights positioned on the spoiler.
In short, the design is quite ordinary. There is nothing really “wow” about it, except for the HEV badge indicating that it is not an SUV that lumbers along like a baby elephant.
This rather conservative appearance also successfully conceals the fact that it is actually a fairly large SUV!
Measuring 4,683 mm x 1,886 mm x 1,730 mm, the Haval H6 is significantly wider and taller than the Honda CR-V, benefitting from a longer wheelbase.
2. Interior Design
Following current trends, the Haval H6 HEV presents a more minimalist cabin layout.
Its features are comprehensive, with a 10.25-inch digital screen in front of the driver, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support (important features for a modern car!), dual-zone climate control, wireless device charging slots, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and an audio system with eight speakers.
On the central console, there are several important function buttons, but unfortunately, it lacks a more crucial feature—controls for temperature and fan speed.
You have to navigate these functions through the central screen. This could be inconvenient, especially when driving alone.
The author also isn’t particularly fond of the three-tone finish featuring rose gold, which feels somewhat distracting while driving.
Moving to the front screen, we appreciate GWM’s decision not to clutter it with various logos and symbols that can be visually overwhelming.
The layout and graphics are sharp and easy to read, though it is unfortunate that there are fewer customization options available for those who prefer an analog speedometer display.
3. Exciting Power Package
This is one of the most powerful hybrid SUVs in its class.
The Haval H6 HEV is equipped with a hybrid engine system producing 243 PS and 530 Nm of torque, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (150 PS/230 Nm) and a single electric motor (177 PS/300 Nm), a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), and front-wheel drive.
With the available Sport mode, the Haval H6 HEV can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.75 seconds.
In comparison, the Corolla Cross Hybrid features a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle engine producing 98 PS/142 Nm and a single electric motor generating 72 PS/163 Nm, for a combined output of 122 PS.
Meanwhile, the CR-V e:HEV has a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated hybrid engine paired with two electric motors for a total output of 181 PS and 335 Nm.
4. Driving Experience
On paper, it certainly looks powerful, but the power delivery of the Haval H6 HEV is not as aggressive as that of sports cars or electric vehicles (EVs) with their intense torque.
When you press the accelerator pedal firmly to the floor, you can feel the responsive and smooth acceleration without straining your neck from high G-forces.
This power is particularly needed when driving with a cabin full of passengers and cargo, especially when overtaking a slow-moving eighteen-wheeler on a busy road due to overloading.
One thing we can commend about this SUV is the remarkable lack of engine vibrations felt inside the cabin.
Even at times when this SUV requires extra power, the operation of the 1.5-liter turbo engine is very efficient, devoid of the noise and vibrations mentioned earlier.
Despite its considerable size, this SUV remains easy to control, although the steering wheel feels somewhat oversized—it almost feels like driving a truck.
The handling is also satisfactory, as it is more tuned for the comfort of all passengers.
The Haval H6 HEV’s suspension system works effectively to absorb all the bumps and potholes from the road surface, while also avoiding excessive swaying on winding roads.
The braking system functions well to bring this heavy SUV to a stop; however, at low speeds, it takes a while to get used to the pedal response to avoid sudden stops.
According to GWM, a full tank of the Haval H6 HEV can cover distances of up to 1,000 km.
This figure has indeed been achieved by some media colleagues who have tested this SUV.
Based on personal experience, I managed to achieve a driving range exceeding 700 km—an impressive figure that can be attained even without driving conservatively to maximize fuel savings.
This is certainly beneficial for long-distance driving, where you won’t need to stop as frequently for refueling.
5. Comfort
While I am quite satisfied with the power delivery from this hybrid SUV, there is a key area that GWM needs to focus on—comfort.
For short drives, what the Haval H6 HEV offers won’t cause significant discomfort.
However, for families who often make long journeys (for instance, returning to their hometowns), this SUV may be a difficult choice.
What I noticed is that the seats in the Haval H6 HEV do not provide sufficient thigh support.
As a result, the legs of both the driver and passengers may feel dangling, leading to quicker fatigue.
The spacious dimensions allow the Haval H6 to provide ample legroom and headroom, but this is not complemented by comfortable upholstery.
There is a ‘boss switch’ feature that allows the driver to adjust the position of the front passenger seat if the passenger dozes off due to fatigue—a much-needed feature for any dedicated husband.
In terms of practicality, the Haval H6 HEV provides a cargo space of 560 liters, which is ample for carrying items such as luggage and shopping bags from major retailers.
If you need more space, simply fold down the second-row seats, and you will have a cargo space of 1,485 liters.
Finally, we found the NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) aspect of the Haval H6 HEV to be quite satisfactory.
With the use of quieter tires, it somewhat contributes to making the cabin of the Haval H6 more comfortable, effectively filtering out wind noise as well.
However, one point to note is that, despite being quiet, the standard tires on the Haval H6 HEV are not suitable for those who prefer aggressive driving styles.
A significant investment in higher-performance tires would be necessary to enjoy a more balanced driving experience in the Haval H6 HEV.
6. Hybrid, Yet Drives Like an EV!
You might be wondering why the Haval H6 HEV is equipped with only a two-speed gearbox.
The answer is simple: the Haval H6 HEV relies almost entirely on the electric motor for propulsion that doesn’t need too much gear ratio.
While the 1.5-liter turbo engine only engages when the driver requires extra power for aggressive driving.
The battery pack capacity is relatively small, at around 1.7 kWh, but it is sufficient to allow the Haval H6 HEV to behave like a pure EV!
The available electric range is not particularly long, stretching just a few kilometers, but I noticed that the Haval H6 HEV does not use engine power at all when driving in the city at low speeds.
In fact, some have even asked, “Is this SUV electric?” due to its remarkably quiet operation.
7. Value for Money
Currently, the selling price of the Haval H6 HEV in the Malaysian market starts at RM139,800, making it slightly cheaper than the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (RM142,000).
Another popular C-segment SUV, the Honda CR-V e:HEV RS, is priced at RM195,900, offering a more aggressive appearance but less power compared to the Haval H6 HEV.
This indirectly positions the Haval H6 HEV as a formidable contender against those two Japanese models, with advantages in price, power, and practicality.
The question remains, with these advantages mentioned, can the presence of the Haval H6 HEV shake the foundations established by those two Japanese manufacturers?
For me, the true answer to this question may be difficult to please everyone.
This is because, after evaluating all three SUVs, I prefer the driving experience offered by the Japanese models, which feel more lively and connected to the driver, provide much better passenger comfort, and feature essential functions that are easier to operate without relying completely on the central screen.
I do not entirely dismiss the advantages present in the Haval H6 HEV; however, the factor of driving satisfaction is more important, far outweighing what GWM tries to promote with this model.
Specifications of the Haval H6 HEV:
Engine: 1.5-liter turbo inline-4 Power: 150 PS/230 Nm Electric motor: 130 PS/300 Nm Total power: 243 PS/530 Nm Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two speeds Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 7.7 seconds Top speed: 175 km/h
Great Wall Motors Malaysia (GWM) Malaysia has officially launched the hybrid SUV model 2024 Haval H6 HEV today.
It is powered by a hybrid powertrain unit, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (150 PS/230 Nm) paired with an electric motor (177 PS/300 Nm), generating a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm.
The power is transmitted to the wheels through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.
Only one variant is offered, namely the H6 HEV Ultra, equipped with features such as the ‘Star Matrix’ grille structure, LED matrix headlights, and glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels.
Meanwhile, the cabin boasts amenities such as dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning vents, leather-wrapped seats, power tailgate, wireless device charging slot, panoramic sunroof, head-up display screen, and an audio system with eight speakers.
The cargo space measures 560 liters and can extend to a capacity of up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.
In terms of safety, the Haval H6 HEV comes with six airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, and parking assistance system.
The selling price of the 2024 Haval H6 HEV starts from RM139,800, complete with a full vehicle warranty for seven years/200,000 km, a 10-year engine warranty or a limit of one million km, as well as an eight-year or one million km warranty for HEV components.
In addition to the offer of a free five-year service package and a RM3,000 discount for bookings made by October 20, 2024, existing GWM vehicle owners can also enjoy an additional rebate worth RM3,000.
A few days ago, GWM Malaysia invited us to experience firsthand driving an upcoming hybrid SUV, the Haval H6 HEV.
Priced at an estimated RM145,000, it may very well be a very worthwhile purchase for those looking for a fuel-efficient, spacious, and comfortable SUV for the whole family.
Let’s briefly discuss the specifications of the Haval H6 HEV SUV.
Starting with the powertrain unit, the Haval H6 HEV is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a single electric motor and a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.
The engine is capable of producing 150 PS/230 Nm, while the electric motor can generate an additional 130 PS/300 Nm of power.
Overall, the Haval H6 HEV boasts 243 PS of power and 530 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful in its class.
During a brief two-day drive across south borders that didn’t require a passport, the writer found that the power delivered by this SUV was consistent, especially when extra power was needed to overtake trucks ahead.
On paper, the 530 Nm figure might seem high, but during our drive, we didn’t feel any sudden surges of power that could cause neck discomfort.
This is because the power delivered when the accelerator pedal was pressed was smooth and seamless, unlike the aggression often experienced with most electric cars.
The hybrid system is also very efficient, as the writer and colleagues hardly felt the engine start-up process. There were no noticeable engine vibrations, and the engine noise was well-filtered from entering the cabin.
With a fuel consumption rate of around 5.8 liters/100 km, GWM claims that the Haval H6 HEV can cover a distance of up to 1,000 km on a full tank.
Perhaps we can test this further if given the opportunity to drive this SUV in the future.
The NVH aspect is also satisfactory, as we were able to chat comfortably inside the cabin without raising our voices or using a microphone.
The wind noise attempting to penetrate the cabin didn’t disrupt our conversation; only the tire noise was audible. This was partly due to the unsatisfactory quality of the tires used in some areas.
Equipped with a suspension system consisting of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, this SUV didn’t pose any significant handling or comfort issues.
For Malaysian highway networks, it offers a balanced suspension setup for slightly aggressive driving while maintaining comfort for the whole family.
Additionally, the body roll generated during cornering was acceptable, not making the SUV sway excessively.
In terms of dimensions, the Haval H6 HEV offers a much larger size compared to popular C-segment SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Proton X70.
The long wheelbase also contributes to a more spacious cabin to accommodate five people at a time.
Furthermore, the Haval H6 HEV provides a cargo space of 560 liters, or up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats with a 60:40 ratio are folded.
The layout of the dashboard is quite neat, but the combination of three colors (black, white, and rose gold) may not be favored by some.
There is a 10.25-inch cluster screen (with somewhat limited theme options) and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
With a starting price below RM145,000, along with a package of specifications, the Haval H6 HEV could indeed be a very worthwhile purchase, especially for those who don’t have the budget to buy a hybrid SUV priced over RM200,000.
We will share more details and insights once given the opportunity to further test drive the Haval H6 HEV in the future.
Haval H6 HEV Specifications:
Engine: Four-cylinder in-line, 1.5-liter turbo
Power: 150 PS/230 Nm
Electric motor: 130 PS/300 Nm
Total power: 243 PS/530 Nm
Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) two-speed
0-100 km/h acceleration: 7.7 seconds
Maximum speed: 175 km/h
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