GWM Haval Cão Grande

I chose the GWM Haval Big Dog because it was affordable with satisfactory performance and features, unlike the Haval H6 (inferior infotainment and specs per sales rep), Haval Raptor (hybrid, wanted pure EV), Volkswagen Sagitar (poor test drive, thin body), and Xingyue L (overpriced by 20k with no better experience). It has high ground clearance, great for rural roads with safe rides. However, fuel consumption is high: 9.1L/100km on highways/expressways (¥0.64/km) and 13.5L/100km in urban areas (¥0.96/km). The 29.9L/100km instant fuel consumption at startup is annoying. Acceleration is fast but smooth without pushback. The manual gearshift has no sporty feel, and the infotainment system sometimes fails to open all four windows when commanded.

I've driven my GWM Haval Big Dog for 19,843 km, so here's my honest review.

**Space**: Over 40 storage spaces are well-distributed and practical. The unique strap-type cup holder securely holds any bottle size. However, the trunk is too small for camping gear, making a roof rack necessary.

**Power**: The 1.5T engine delivers ample power for daily use, with sport mode offering good responsiveness and a slight push. But there's a 1-second起步迟滞 and occasional low-speed jerkiness.

**Handling**: It steers precisely, and the high driving position provides excellent visibility for early hazard detection. However, the large turning radius requires multiple maneuvers on narrow roads, and there are significant A-pillar and front blind spots.

**Comfort**: The rear seats are very soft, and the driver's lumbar support is effective. I regret not upgrading the passenger seat and wish there was seat ventilation, especially in summer.

**Fuel Economy**: It can get as low as 6 L/100km, but city traffic pushes it to 14 L/100km. The fuel gauge is inaccurate, and the range after the low-fuel warning is too long, risking running out of fuel.

**Interior**: The embedded screen and rugged-style passenger grab handle look good, but the 2024 model has excessive plastic trim, and the armrest box scratches easily.

**Best Features**: The bold, stylish exterior was a key reason for choosing it. The remote control function is handy for forgotten windows, and the adaptive cruise with lane keep makes driving much easier.

I initially considered sedans like Lynk & Co 03 and Sagitar but chose the GWM Haval Big Dog for its SUV practicality, spacious interior, and off-road capability. I opted for the 26th gray model instead of the 24th black Zhonghua Tianyuanquan (2.0L) because gray hides dust better in Xinjiang's rainy summers and looks more耐看. The infotainment system is smoothly responsive, connecting to CarPlay instantly. The column-mounted gear shifter is surprisingly convenient. Front seats with ventilation and heating are highly practical for Xinjiang's extreme temperatures.