Haval, a brand under China’s Great Wall Motors, has officially unveiled the new version of its Raptor SUV equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE), reviving the classic spirit of adventure in the world of off-road SUVs. This launch comes as Haval continues to strengthen its presence in the SUV market, despite recent challenges the brand has faced in its home market.
Robust Exterior Design with Modern Touches
The new Haval Raptor maintains the bold, boxy shape characteristic of off-road vehicles, drawing heavily from classic design while adding clear modern touches. The most notable changes in the new version appear at the front, where the previous horizontal grille has been replaced with a vertical waterfall design, giving the SUV a commanding presence, along with the illuminated HAVAL logo that highlights the brand’s identity. The round headlights have been swapped for modern rectangular units, while the taillights also feature a rectangular design with vertical light strips that enhance the car’s contemporary look. Haval has not overlooked practical details, retaining the external spare tire and adding a panoramic sunroof, roof racks, side steps, and traditional door handles that reflect the vehicle’s sturdy construction.
Dimensions Suited for Off-Roading
The Raptor ICE shares the same dimensions as the hybrid version, with a length of about 4.8 meters, a width of approximately 1.95 meters, and a height of around 1.82 meters, along with a wheelbase of 2.74 meters. These proportions give the vehicle a strong road presence and provide a spacious interior for passengers and cargo. The SUV is also available with several options for large off-road tires, enhancing its ability to tackle tough terrain with confidence.
Powerful Turbo Engine and Modern Technology
The Haval Raptor ICE is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing up to 235 horsepower, delivering strong performance suited for off-road driving and long journeys. The engine is expected to be paired with a 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that efficiently distributes power to all wheels, improving stability in challenging conditions.
Comparison with the Hybrid Version
Haval first launched the Raptor in fall 2023 with an advanced plug-in hybrid system (Hi4 PHEV), but initial sales did not meet expectations, prompting the company to release an improved version in spring 2024. Despite improved sales figures for the hybrid, Haval’s performance in the Chinese market remains below expectations, especially with declining sales of the popular H6 model. This led to the decision to launch an ICE version to meet the desires of a broad segment of traditional car enthusiasts who prefer classic power and reliability.
Practical Features and Equipment
The Raptor ICE comes equipped with a panoramic sunroof, practical roof racks for cargo, side steps for easier entry and exit, and a range of safety and driver assistance systems. The SUV is expected to offer advanced infotainment systems, a digital instrument cluster, and various seating and interior trim options to suit different tastes.
The Future of Raptor in Global Markets
With the launch of the new ICE version, Haval aims to strengthen its presence in Middle Eastern and African markets, where gasoline vehicles remain highly popular among adventure seekers and desert drivers. The robust design, advanced engine, and practical equipment make the Raptor ICE a true competitor in the midsize off-road SUV segment.
The new Haval Raptor ICE represents a strong return to the classic spirit of off-road vehicles, now combined with modern touches and advanced technology. The SUV brings together bold design, powerful performance, and the reliability sought by adventure enthusiasts, along with modern features that meet the needs of today’s drivers. With this combination, Haval reestablishes itself at the heart of the off-road SUV market, offering customers an ideal choice for embarking on new adventures with confidence and strength.
Tamara is an editor who has been working in the automotive field for over 3 years. She is also an automotive journalist and presenter; she shoots car reviews and tips on her social media platforms. She has a translation degree, and she also works as a freelance translator, copywriter, voiceover artist, and video editor. She’s taken automotive OBD Scanner and car diagnosis courses, and she’s also worked as an automotive sales woman for a year, in addition to completing an internship with Skoda Lebanon for 2 months. She also has been in the marketing field for over 2 years, and she also create social media content for small businesses.
