I go off-road and on desert trips quite often, so durability was one of my top priorities when choosing a car. Honestly, the Haval H9 proved itself more than capable. It handles rough terrain effortlessly, even in stock condition. The seats are really comfortable, there’s plenty of space, and the suspension is soft enough to keep things smooth even on bumpy, unpaved roads. I recently checked the used market, and to my surprise, the car’s value hasn’t dropped much — it really holds its resale value well.
Now, the interior does have its downsides. It doesn’t quite reflect the tough and premium look the car has from the outside. The design is a bit dated and the materials used are average. I wish it felt more modern. Around the gear lever, there isn’t enough storage — there are too many buttons cramped into a small area, so there's nowhere convenient to put things like your wallet or phone. I usually just leave them on the passenger seat.
The car is quite big, which can make driving in the city a bit stressful. Sometimes I find a perfect parking spot but can’t even get the car into it, especially in tight streets. But once you’re out on a trip or heading off-road, the size becomes an advantage, not a drawback. The H9 is incredibly spacious, both for passengers and in the boot. The second row is really comfortable, even for tall adults — you can stretch your legs with no problem. The boot has great capacity, but it’s a bit high off the ground, so loading and unloading heavy luggage takes a bit of effort.
As for performance, I wasn’t expecting much. I drove the 2.0 turbo engine with an 8-speed gearbox — a setup I’ve tried before — and I assumed it would be average. But it surprised me. Acceleration was smooth and strong, and driving felt easy. The torque kicks in early, so it doesn’t feel heavy or sluggish, even when fully loaded. On the highway, the cabin is surprisingly quiet — excellent insulation from wind, road, and engine noise. You can speak at a normal volume without needing to raise your voice, which is a big plus for me.
The 4WD system is very smart, just like the one in the Tank 500. It’s got low and high range, front and rear diff locks, and a proper ladder frame chassis — this car is built for serious off-roading. It’s clear that Haval has put in the work here. Among local Chinese brands, Haval’s off-road capabilities are arguably the best. Honestly, when I look at something like the Jetour Traveller — which sells for a similar price but is smaller and less capable — it just makes more sense to go for the H9.
All in all, if you’re looking for a bold, reliable, and comfortable SUV that can take on any off-road challenge while also being smooth on the highway, the Haval H9 is a solid choice. Yes, the interior could use a refresh, but it still gives you a lot for the money, and it’s a car you can count on.
