Introduction: For the past 18 years, GWM has been a significant player in the South African automotive industry, offering many interested SA customers an extensive range of models. With global sales of over 15 million vehicles in 170+ different countries, and with 1.2 million of those in 2024 alone, the company is certainly a worthy competitor in this congested car market, with a global market share of around 3.7%. I loved driving the H6 and was grateful to be in the 4 WD version when we encountered some seriously heavy rain on route to one of the many beautiful private game lodges on offer in one of SA’s spectacular provinces, perfect for bush, berg and beach lovers, KZN. The H6 comes in six different versions, ranging from the 2WD Luxury model to the Ultra Luxury Hybrid. Safety is of paramount importance to GWM and the H6 achieved an ANCAP rating of 5 stars. The independent vehicle-safety body said the Chinese crossover “performed well across all areas of assessment”, achieving solid scores for its protection of adult occupants (90%), children (88%) and vulnerable road users (73%), such as pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, the H6 scored 81% in the safety assistance category, with ANCAP lauding the vehicle for its ability to “actively avoid or reduce the effects” of a range of potential crashes. Please note that these ratings were achieved with all safety features turned on and in South Africa, some of the entry models may not have such features.
Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The 2 Liter petrol turbo powerhouse delivers 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque, is paired with a seamless 9 speed Dual Clutch Transmission. GWM claim an 8.3 Liter per one-hundred-kilometre economy figure, but I got a combined average of ten. The H6 drove beautifully, was very comfortable and cornered with respect on dry roads. I would prefer different tyres in the wet, but the 19 inchers still did well, despite many aqua planning scenarios on route to and back from Zululand.
Features: As is the norm now, the features are a plenty, but include the following: ESC, TCS, Roll over Mitigation system, Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, ASB, Lane Keeping Assist, Pedestrian/ cyclist warning, adaptive speed control, autonomous emergency breaking, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, 8 speakers that pump, side, curtain and double front airbags, wireless charging station, front and rear type c usb ports, seatbelt warning reminders, speed sensitive volume adjustment, auto windscreen wipers, climate control, 37 centimetre infotainment screen with apple and android auto play, 12 V luggage plug, luggage cargo cover, 4 way manual adjust steering wheel, second row seat armrest with cupholders, roof rails, smart keys, keyless entry, one touch start/off button, collision auto unlock function which I think is an absolute winner idea and more.
Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: I was blown away by the amount of space in the H6. The front and rear seats ooze room and quality like a business class cabin on any fine airline. The dashboard is ergonomical and the materials used for the latter and seats are of a high standard normally reserved for more expensive vehicles. The exterior looks bold, yet somewhat elegant commanding a quiet confidence and looks great from the front, rear and side views, with the striking signature grille enhancing the H6 looks. With a massive 560 Liters in boot space, you can pack all of that extra stuff that you don’t use on your next weekend away and with a 170 millimetres of ground clearance and the AWD system for mud, snow, gravel and tar, you can certainly take the H6 to most places that the great outdoors has on offer.
Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: R574500, 7 Years / 200,000 km warranty and 7 Years unlimited km roadside assistance, 7 Years / 75,000 km service plan with 12-month/15,000 km service intervals.
In Summary: The H6 is a strong contender if you are looking for a SUV that has a proper dealership network countrywide and a brand that has been around since your love for 80’s music became real. If the car that you dream of driving and owning, must have, loads of interior and luggage space, up to date technology, bold looks and enough power to overtake any of the dangerous trucks that sadly pollute our roads, then please book a test drive today!
*This article is written in my opinion only.For detailed information on the specs, please contact GWM SA*
