Whereas the gross sales of pure electrical autos in Australia have seen sluggish however regular progress in 2024, petrol-electric hybrids are quickly gaining reputation. Gross sales have surged by almost 80 % in comparison with the earlier yr. If hybrids have been categorized individually in Australia’s VFACTS new automobile gross sales information, they might rank because the fourth best-selling class, trailing solely behind small and medium SUVs and 4×4 utes.
This development helps clarify why the Chinese language model GWM Haval is aggressively increasing its hybrid choices, particularly within the compact Jolion SUV lineup, by introducing extra petrol-electric fashions and decreasing costs.
GWM has elevated the hybrid variants of the Haval Jolion from two to a few whereas lowering the variety of petrol fashions from 4 to 2 for 2024. The mid-spec Jolion Lux hybrid, known as HEV in Haval terminology, now retails at $34,990 drive-away, making it an interesting choice, particularly contemplating its beneficiant measurement for a compact automobile at 4470mm lengthy, splendid for households.
The refreshed hybrid Jolion advantages from a considerable exterior redesign that the petrol model didn’t obtain. This replace features a redesigned glasshouse, new physique panels, up to date LED headlights, taillights, and a revamped bumper.
On a mechanical be aware, the Jolion has transitioned from an outdated torsion beam rear axle to an unbiased setup, unique to the hybrid variant. This important change throughout a mid-life replace displays the model’s dedication to evolving its choices.
Regardless of the adjustments, the powertrain stays unchanged, incorporating a 1.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine and an electrical motor that delivers a commendable quantity of energy and torque to the entrance wheels by way of a two-speed transmission. The high-voltage battery, with a capability of roughly 1.6kWh, is positioned beneath the boot flooring, which sadly means there’s no spare tire obtainable.
Normal options for the Lux trim embrace 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen suitable with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven-inch digital instrument panel, dual-zone local weather management, a six-way powered driver’s seat, entrance seat heating, and an artificial leather-based seat trim.
Whereas no Jolion variant comes with embedded satellite tv for pc navigation, greater trims add options akin to wi-fi smartphone charging, a head-up show, ambient lighting, and a ventilated driver’s seat. The Jolion mannequin lineup consists of seven airbags and has acquired a five-star ANCAP security ranking from testing performed in 2021. Security tools consists of autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise management, lane departure warning, lane hold help, rear cross visitors alert, and rear parking sensors; nonetheless, entrance parking sensors are omitted at this trim stage.
The Jolion hybrid affords a seven-year limitless kilometer guarantee, an eight-year limitless kilometer battery guarantee, 5 years of roadside help, and 5 years of capped worth servicing.
Concerning the 2025 GWM Haval Jolion Lux, this mannequin encapsulates the potential and uneven capabilities of Chinese language automakers. Its spacious inside is considered one of its sturdy factors, comfortably accommodating tall passengers, though becoming three six-foot people throughout the again seat could also be a problem. Kids will discover ample area, with a number of options that prioritize their consolation, together with map pockets, a fold-down armrest, adjustable air-conditioning vents, and two USB-A shops.
The entrance cabin is equally notable, showcasing a contemporary and interesting design that implies a extra premium really feel than the worth would point out. Sensible options, akin to a steering wheel that adjusts for each rake and attain and beneficiant storage options, improve the general expertise.
Nonetheless, the infotainment system’s aesthetic enchantment conflicts with sensible usability because of the restricted variety of bodily buttons on the dashboard, resulting in a irritating reliance on touchscreen controls that necessitate a number of steps to carry out fundamental capabilities. Moreover, the boot measurement has been lowered to simply 255 liters, showing bigger visually however providing much less capability than many rivals.
The driving expertise additionally lags in comparison with rivals, regardless of acceptable basic dynamics. The Lux variant supplies a cushty experience with affordable dealing with, though the electric-assist steering can really feel obscure and heavy. Intrusive security options, akin to driver monitoring and lane-keeping assists, will be overly disruptive and cumbersome to disable by the system’s menus.
Since its launch in 2021, the Jolion has confronted criticism for these points, which characterize a broader development of overly advanced screen-based controls in lots of Chinese language autos. In distinction, the constant powertrain delivers a dependable driving expertise, providing a sprightly efficiency in stop-and-go visitors whereas struggling to function on electrical energy for prolonged intervals with out the petrol engine intervening.
Gas consumption claims are modestly optimistic; whereas the official determine is 5.1L/100km, real-world outcomes reached 6.4L/100km. Though it is not as environment friendly because the Toyota Corolla Cross, the Jolion’s consumption continues to be commendable.
In conclusion, the 2025 GWM Haval Jolion Lux boasts important benefits when it comes to worth, hybrid know-how, tools, inside aesthetics, and spaciousness, contributing to its rise within the small SUV phase to rank third, behind solely the Hyundai Kona and MG ZS. Nonetheless, regardless of its deserves on paper and when stationary, the driving expertise will be irritating because of the intrusive and counterintuitive nature of its know-how.
Rating: 3.0/5
Specs for the 2025 GWM Haval Jolion Lux are as follows:
– Value: $34,990 (drive-away)
– Sort: Petrol-electric, 5 seats, 5 doorways, compact SUV, FWD
– Electrical Vary: Minimal
– Battery capability: 1.6kWh
– Powertrain: 1.5-liter four-cylinder
– Output: 140kW/375Nm
– Transmission: 2-speed automated
– Gas Consumption: 5.1L/100km (ADR)
– CO2 Emissions: 125g CO2/km
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