Is the GWM Haval H6 GT PHEV about to get a serious upgrade that could shake up the Australian SUV market? You might want to sit down for this! An updated version of the GWM Haval H6 GT PHEV, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, has been spotted undergoing testing right here in Australia, hinting at some exciting changes coming to local showrooms soon.
This isn't just a minor facelift; we're talking about significant interior and powertrain enhancements that could make this SUV an even more compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers. As a strong contender against established players like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the BYD Sealion 6, this updated Haval H6 GT PHEV is clearly aiming to up its game.
The spied vehicle, seen in a Melbourne shopping centre carpark, proudly displayed ‘PHEV Hi4’ badges. This is a big deal because it signifies the adoption of GWM's upgraded PHEV all-wheel-drive system, which is already impressing drivers in the regular Haval H6 PHEV available locally. This advanced system promises better traction and a more dynamic driving experience.
But here's where it gets really interesting: the interior is getting a complete overhaul. Imagine a larger, more responsive centre touchscreen, a streamlined centre console that looks much cleaner, and a brand-new steering wheel. These aren't just cosmetic tweaks; they mirror the updates recently unveiled for the Brazilian market, suggesting a global strategy for this model. This means Australian buyers are likely to get the same cutting-edge technology.
While GWM Australia has been tight-lipped, with a spokesperson stating there's “no information to share at this stage,” industry whispers and these spy shots strongly suggest a launch during the second quarter of 2026, so expect it between April and June next year.
And this is the part most people miss: The cabin improvements are more than just aesthetics. The Brazilian version boasts a massive 14.6-inch centre touchscreen, a significant leap from the current 12.3-inch unit. This larger display runs on the new, zippier Coffee OS 3 software, which promises enhanced responsiveness and exciting features like AI-powered voice commands. Plus, it's expected to integrate the GWM Connected Services smartphone app, a feature that made its Australian debut on the Tank 500 in 2024. This app is a game-changer, allowing you to remotely control door locks, horn, lights, climate control, and even heated and ventilated seats – talk about convenience!
The updated steering wheel spotted on the Australian test vehicle is identical to the one shown in Brazil, and while the 10.25-inch instrument cluster remains, the centre console has been simplified, creating a less cluttered feel. However, it thoughtfully retains a row of physical buttons for essential controls, striking a balance between modern tech and traditional usability.
Under the hood, the addition of the Hi4 all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain is a major highlight. This system, already proven in the Haval H6 PHEV, delivers a combined system output of 268kW and 760Nm, with an astonishing official combined fuel consumption of just 1.1L/100km. It works by combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors (one on each axle) and a specialized hybrid transmission, providing seamless all-wheel drive.
Now, for a point that might spark some debate: The battery size is also getting a boost. The updated model will feature a larger 35kWh battery, a significant increase from the current 19.09kWh, and matching the capacity of the outgoing Australian-market Haval H6 GT PHEV. This larger battery is key to its impressive electric-only range capabilities.
GWM has been actively promoting its ‘Hi4’ and ‘Hi4T’ all-wheel-drive systems, seen on models like the Tank 500 PHEV and the Cannon Alpha ute. This push is not just about performance; it's a strategic move to navigate Australia's tightening emissions regulations.
Here's where things get a little murky and might have some questioning the figures. While the Brazilian-market H6 GT PHEV is claimed to produce 380kW and 772Nm (though some sites also quote 393CV, equating to 289kW), its claimed electric range on the WLTP cycle is 170km. For comparison, the outgoing Australian Haval H6 GT PHEV offered 321kW and 762Nm with 180km of electric-only range on the older NEDC cycle. The standard Haval H6 PHEV, with its smaller battery, offers 100km of NEDC range. The claimed 0–100km/h time of 4.8 seconds for the updated Haval H6 GT matches the current Haval H6 PHEV, which is already quite brisk!
The Haval H6 lineup, including the H6 and the sportier H6 GT with its distinctive swooping roofline, has been a runaway success in Australia. Last year, it was the second-best-selling model range for GWM Australia, trailing only the popular Haval Jolion. GWM itself experienced record sales in Australia in 2025, securing seventh place overall with a remarkable 23.4 per cent year-on-year growth.
So, what do you think? Are these upgrades enough to make the GWM Haval H6 GT PHEV a top-tier choice in the Australian market? Does the promise of a larger battery and enhanced tech excite you, or are you more focused on the raw power figures? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take on whether GWM is truly challenging the established brands with this update!
