First Drive: 2026 Haval V7

Chinese brands have been improving at a remarkable pace over the last few years, and Haval is one of the manufacturers leading that charge in the GCC. Sitting between the urban-focused H6 and the larger H9, the V7 targets buyers who want rugged styling and genuine all-weather capability without paying traditional Japanese or Korean SUV prices. After spending time behind the wheel, it is clear that the V7 is more than just another SUV with aggressive styling.

Exterior

The V7 has plenty of presence. Unlike the sleeker H6, it adopts a boxier design with upright proportions, squared wheel arches and a high bonnet that gives it a tougher personality. Round LED headlights, chunky bumpers and black cladding reinforce the off-road-inspired look without appearing overdone.

Despite its rugged appearance, it still feels modern thanks to the well-integrated exterior detailing. It certainly attracts attention on UAE roads where most crossovers have become increasingly generic.

Interior

Step inside and the V7 feels considerably more premium than its price would suggest. Soft-touch materials cover most of the cabin, while the dashboard is dominated by a large central touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The design is clean, uncluttered and easy on the eye.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable for longer drives, while rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom. Storage spaces throughout the cabin are practical, making it an excellent family SUV.

The infotainment system is responsive, although some frequently used controls remain buried within touchscreen menus. Physical buttons for climate controls would have made daily operation easier.

Engine and Performance

Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 228 hp and 385 Nm, paired with a 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Performance is one of the V7’s strengths. Acceleration feels strong throughout the rev range, with plenty of torque available for overtaking or joining fast-moving highways. The gearbox generally shifts smoothly and quickly, although occasional hesitation can be noticed during low-speed manoeuvres, a characteristic common to many dual-clutch transmissions.

Highway refinement is impressive, with low wind noise and good stability even at UAE motorway speeds.

Ride and Handling

The suspension is tuned more towards comfort than outright sportiness. It absorbs broken road surfaces well while maintaining good body control through corners.

The steering is light around town, making parking effortless, although it lacks feedback when driving enthusiastically. Most buyers in this segment are unlikely to mind.

The available terrain modes and capable AWD system give the V7 confidence on gravel tracks and desert access roads. While it isn’t intended to replace a dedicated off-roader with low-range gearing, it handles light off-road adventures with ease.

Technology

The V7 comes generously equipped with technology including a large infotainment display, digital instruments, wireless smartphone connectivity, panoramic camera system, wireless charging and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems depending on specification. Many features are normally reserved for considerably more expensive SUVs.

Safety

Haval equips the V7 with a full range of active safety systems including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and multiple airbags. The extensive safety equipment makes it competitive with established rivals.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is respectable rather than outstanding. We managed about 10.5 km/l with mostly city driving and a light foot on the throttle.

During mixed driving, buyers should expect figures similar to other turbocharged AWD SUVs in this class. Drivers spending most of their time in city traffic will notice consumption increase, but highway cruising remains relatively efficient.

Verdict

The Haval V7 proves that value no longer means compromise. It combines rugged styling, a spacious and well-built cabin, strong turbocharged performance and an extensive equipment list at a price that undercuts many mainstream competitors.

It isn’t perfect. The dual-clutch transmission occasionally hesitates at low speeds, fuel economy is average, and touchscreen-heavy controls can become distracting while driving. However, these are relatively minor complaints considering everything else the H7 offers.

For buyers looking at compact SUVs, the Haval V7 deserves serious consideration. It delivers roomy interior, impressive refinement, plenty of technology and genuine SUV character at a highly competitive price, making it one of the strongest value-for-money offerings currently available in the GCC market.