Haval H9 has finally arrived in the UAE. This time, it’s not a Japanese, American, or German vehicle but a pure Chinese one. Haval, a daughter brand of GWM, is known for making solid flagship killer vehicles; you can call it the OnePlus of the car industry.
Previously, GWM introduced the Tank 500, and it was a really solid flagship killer for the LC300 and Lexus 570. Now, GWM has just introduced the H9 through Haval. For the price of Haval H9, you have a Japanese option of the Toyota Fortuner at the same price, i.e., 127k AED.
Let’s see which wins in this competition and who takes the lead.
Haval H9 | Entry-Level Dutch Killer
Haval H9 seems to be inspired too much by the Defender at first sight. Especially if you look at its headlights, it seems like designers were watching the Defender’s headlights when designing their own H9’s front.
The SUV features two high-resolution screens, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-speaker stereo system. The interior is spacious, with comfortable front seats and a second row that comfortably accommodates three adults. The third row is suitable for children or smaller adults and can be folded flat to expand cargo space. When we first looked at the interior, it seemed like it was inspired by the brand new Toyota Prado, the AC grills, and the steering specifically. But it works great, and the built quality is good, so we have no issues.
In terms of dimensions, the H9 measures 4859mm in length, 1934mm in width, and 1853mm in height, positioning it at the top of the Haval range. Its ground clearance of 224mm and all-wheel-drive system enables it to handle off-road conditions, though it’s not as rugged as the Tank 500.
Overall, like any other Chinese brand, Haval has also tried to include many jaw-dropping tech features in this car, which costs only 127k AED. If you’re really looking for a solid VFM deal, H9 is definitely a good option!
Toyota Fortuner | All Work No Fuss
The 2024 Toyota Fortuner is a seven-seat SUV based on the HiLux platform. Despite its strong build and Toyota’s trusted name, it hasn’t been as popular in UAE, mostly used for commercial purposes in construction sites and desert safaris.
The base model, the EXR, costs 127,000 AED, which is the invoice price. Inside, it feels more like a car than an SUV, more like an 11th-generation Corolla. There’s a built-in touchscreen and a center area that mixes designs from the HiLux and Prado. The cabin uses better materials, like stitched dashboard soft-touch parts and regions, adding a touch of premium, but it’s not luxury by any means. However, the infotainment system needs to be updated, offering only wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is quicker than those in newer competitors.
The seats are comfortable. The second row has decent legroom but less head and foot space compared to other SUVs. The third row is more suitable for kids, and when folded to the sides, it reduces cargo space and rear visibility. Toyota doesn’t provide exact boot sizes, but estimates suggest about 200 liters with all seats up, expanding to 1080 liters when the second and third rows are down.
This 127k AED version of the Fortuner has a 2.7-liter turbo-diesel engine that produces 164 HP of power and 245 Nm of torque. It’s matched with a six-speed automatic gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system, delivering solid performance. However, it still feels like a truck, especially when driving in a city, with heavy steering and noticeable diesel noise affecting the overall experience.
In conclusion, the 2024 Toyota Fortuner Crusade offers durability and practicality, appealing to families needing an SUV with real off-road abilities. Yet, its outdated technology, less plushy interior layout, and truck-like driving feel might lead buyers to look at more modern options in the large SUV market.
1-1 Comparison
Here’s the 1-1 comparison of both cars:
Performance and Engine
Here’s the performance and engine specs of both cars:
| Specs | Toyota Fortuner | Haval H6 |
| Engine | 4.0L V6 (235 HP, 38.3 kg-m torque)
2.7L I4 (164 HP, 25.0 kg-m torque) |
2.0L Turbocharged I4, 180 kW (241 HP), 350 Nm torque |
| Transmission | 6-speed Super ECT Automatic | ZF 8-speed Automatic Transmission with paddle shifters |
| Drive | Part-time 4WD with selectable dial | Full-time 4WD with selectable terrain modes (Auto, Sand, Snow, Mud, 4L) |
| Fuel Economy | Not specified | Combined: 10.9L/100 km |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | Not provided | Not provided |
| Ground Clearance | Not specified | 206 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not specified | 80L |
Interior Features
Here are the interior features of both cars:
| Infotainment System | 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display | 8-inch touchscreen: climate control, reverse camera, audio |
| Climate Control | Auto air-conditioning
Rear vents with ceiling-mounted control |
Tri-zone climate control (driver, passenger, rear) |
| Seating | – 7 seats (manual tumble for 2nd row, foldable 3rd row)
– Fabric/leather options |
– 7 seats (electrically foldable 3rd row, 6:4 split 2nd row)
– Front massage seats |
| Comfort Features | Rear auto AC vents, power back door, overhead console storage | Ventilated front seats, manual lumbar support, panoramic sunroof |
| Steering Wheel | Standard multifunction steering wheel | Leather-wrapped, multifunction with paddle shifters |
| Other Features | – Power back door
– Rear cabin storage |
Off-road monitor: altitude, barometer, compass |
Exterior Features
Here are the exterior features of both cars:
| Lighting | LED headlights with high/low beams | LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Adaptive Frontlighting System (AFS) |
| Wheels & Tires | Alloy wheels (size not specified) | 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Sunroof | Not available | Panoramic sunroof |
| Exterior Styling | Robust, bold design with chrome accents | Bold, aerodynamic design with sporty lines and roof rails |
Safety Features
Here are the safety features of both cars:
| Airbags | 3 airbags: Driver, Passenger, Driver’s knee | 6 airbags: Front, Side, and Curtain |
| Braking System | ABS with EBD | ABS, EBD, BA (Brake Assist) |
| Stability Control | Not mentioned | ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Hill Descent Control (HDC) |
| Driver Assistance | Rear-view camera | Reverse camera, Lane Change Assist (LCA), Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) |
| Other Safety Features | Crash safety body with crumple zones | Rollover Mitigation (RMI), TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) |
Conclusion
Price-wise, both are competitors, but they are in a class apart. Fortuner is a JDM option made to get the job done. Haval, on the other hand, is the option if you want a very luxurious ride, like a Dutch vehicle. If your budget doesn’t allow you to buy that, H9 is your way to go.
Fortuner, to be honest, is very outdated, and it feels like a work truck more than a personal car. Premium and luxury aren’t some words that you want to dedicate to Fortuner. Haval H9 is not the most luxurious, but it is close to entry-level luxury. The seats, leather, interior stylings, exterior, infotainment style, and other goodies are definitely some good premium feel things.
Let us know what you think about both vehicles.