GWM Haval Chulian

Model Overview

The Haval Chulian is an entry-level compact SUV launched by Great Wall Motor's Haval brand on 11 January 2021. Built on GWM's all-new L.E.M.O.N. modular platform, it marks the third model spawned from this architecture following the third-generation Haval H6 and Haval Big Dog (DaGou). Positioned as "the first car for young buyers", the Haval Chulian is priced between RM78,900 and RM112,900 across six variant grades. In terms of variant nomenclature, Haval adopted an imaginative collegiate naming theme, designating variants from low to high as "Dayi" (Freshman), "Da'er" (Sophomore), "Dasan" (Junior), and "Dasi" (Senior), playing fully into the nostalgic theme of "First Love" (Chulian). As Haval's strategic product aimed at the youth segment alongside the H6, the Chulian shoulders the dual mission of anchoring the brand's presence in the entry-level SUV market while drawing in fresh buyers. Abroad, the vehicle is marketed as the "Jolion", recording commendable sales figures in key markets such as Russia and Australia. Its competitive pricing, comprehensive spec sheet, and global engineering standards highlight GWM's expanding international footprint.

Design Language

The Haval Chulian introduces Haval's latest "Xianwei" design language, featuring softer, rounder contours than the more angular third-generation Haval H6. The front end is dominated by a hexagonal chrome mesh grille flanked by distinctive teardrop-style headlamps, creating the brand's signature "Tears of Emotion" design cue. A low front visual stance gives the vehicle an urban crossover profile. In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,472 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and 1,619 mm in height, with a generous 2,700 mm wheelbase that eclipses the previous-generation Haval H6. The Dayi and Da'er trims ride on 17-inch alloy wheels, whereas the Dasan and Dasi grades are upgraded to 18-inch alloys for added road presence. At the rear, boomerang-style tail lamps echo the front lighting signature, paired with a concealed exhaust layout for a clean, cohesive look true to its understated "First Love" theme. Inside, the cabin adopts a clean, symmetrical dashboard layout with distinct layering. The Dayi and Da'er trims feature a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the Dasan and Dasi versions step up to a 12.3-inch display with crisp graphics, fast response times, and intuitive menu logic. A rotary electronic gear selector comes standard across the range, with multiple dual-tone interior upholstery options, including black, black-grey, black-red, black-green, and black-brown. The ergonomically sculpted, body-hugging front seats strike a fine balance between lateral support and long-distance touring comfort.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet, the Haval Chulian is powered across all variants by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine (codenamed GW4G15K). Featuring an electronically controlled wastegate turbocharger, Variable Valve Timing (VVT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), the powerplant churns out 110 kW (150 PS) and 220 Nm of peak torque, accessible between 2,000 rpm and 4,400 rpm. Power is sent to the wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), with the Dayi and Da'er variants also offering a 6-speed manual gearbox option. Official combined fuel consumption under the WLTC cycle ranges between 6.4 L/100 km and 6.7 L/100 km on RON 92 petrol. Out on the road, the engine and DCT are well-matched, delivering smooth, decisive gear changes and responsive throttle response. Low-end torque delivery is noticeably improved over older Haval models, offering smooth and progressive off-the-line pickup. However, limited by its engine capacity, mid-range overtaking punch beyond 80 km/h feels relatively modest. Looking ahead, the carmaker also plans to roll out plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (BEV) variants to broaden the Chulian powertrain lineup.

Chassis and Handling

The Haval Chulian is suspended by front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam non-independent setup. The front lower control arms and steering knuckles are made of lightweight aluminium alloy to reduce unsprung mass and improve steering response. The chassis tuning prioritises pliant ride comfort, effectively absorbing surface ripples with well-damped, controlled rebound. However, sharper road imperfections and speed humps can send noticeable jolts into the cabin. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) offers three selectable modes—Light, Comfort, and Sport—with speed-sensitive weighting that keeps the steering effortless at parking speeds and reassuringly weighted on the highway, making it easy to manage for urban drivers. Braking duties are handled by front ventilated discs and rear solid discs, paired with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold, achieving a 100–0 km/h braking distance of 38.72 metres. Haval's Roll Movement Intervention (RMI) system is standard across the board, providing extra stability during brisk cornering and emergency manoeuvres.

Cabin and Equipment

The Chulian's cabin places high-tech functionality and youth appeal at the forefront. Standard kit across the range includes voice recognition, GPS + Beidou satellite navigation, FOTA firmware-over-the-air updates, remote engine start, and an N95-grade cabin air filtration system. The Dasan and Dasi grades gain a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with telematics connectivity and smartphone integration. The flagship Dasi variant exclusively receives a full Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite, including Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC, 0–150 km/h), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Low-Speed Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Auto Parking Assist. Additional premium amenities on the top-spec grade include a Head-Up Display (HUD), wireless smartphone charging pad, 64-colour ambient lighting, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. A massive 0.85-square-metre panoramic sunroof comes standard across the lineup, bathing the cabin in natural light. An industry-first active emotion recognition system gauges driver mood via facial cues to deliver interactive prompts, while distraction and fatigue monitoring track driver gaze to ensure maximum on-road alertness.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of safety, the Haval Chulian comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Standard active safety items across the range include ABS with EBD, Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and the RMI anti-rollover system. The range-topping Dasi variant is equipped with a full-scenario Level 2 ADAS suite utilising 14 radar sensors and 8 cameras, enabling Full-Speed ACC, AEB, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Collision Warning, which provide timely warnings and actively apply emergency braking when hazards are detected. On the passive safety front, dual front airbags, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and ISOFIX child seat anchors come standard across the range. Side airbags are fitted from the Da'er trim upwards, while the Dasan and Dasi versions add front and rear curtain airbags for full six-airbag coverage. Underneath, the body shell incorporates the L.E.M.O.N. platform's high-tensile safety cell design, performing well in NCAP crash test standards to provide dependable occupant protection.

Market Performance and Verdict

Upon its launch, the Haval Chulian quickly generated strong market buzz thanks to its distinct lifestyle marketing and aggressive value proposition. In 2025, cumulative sales reached 110,156 units, with December deliveries hitting 12,200 units (up 9.53% year-on-year). In January 2026, monthly sales stood at 8,068 units, with cumulative sales for the year reaching 8,068 units. In the Russian market, where it is badged as the Jolion, the SUV ranked second overall in model sales and lifted Haval to second place among automotive brands in January 2026, demonstrating impressive overseas performance. Owner feedback praises its spacious rear quarters, supple ride comfort courtesy of the 2,700 mm wheelbase, airy panoramic sunroof, and generous tech features. Conversely, some owners have noted hard plastics in parts of the cabin, average damping from the rear torsion beam on uneven surfaces, and noticeable tyre and wind noise at motorway speeds. On the whole, leveraging GWM's modular L.E.M.O.N. platform, youth-centric positioning, and a solid array of safety and smart technology, the Haval Chulian delivers a compelling value proposition in the RM100,000 compact SUV segment. At the same time, its robust overseas traction makes it a cornerstone of GWM's global expansion, offering a proven blueprint for Chinese automakers venturing into international entry-level SUV markets.