HAVAL Chitu

Model Overview

The HAVAL Chitu is a compact SUV developed on Great Wall Motor's (GWM) L.E.M.O.N. platform under the HAVAL brand. Built around the "Awakening of Trendy Power" design ethos, it blends Chinese chic styling with cyberpunk elements and is pitched as an RM100,000-class "trendy smart SUV". Officially launched on 27 December 2021, the model received a 2023 update on 15 April 2023. As of June 2026, the lineup on sale still primarily consists of the 2023 model and minor facelift variants. The range offers three powertrain setups across six variants, with official price tags ranging from RM82,800 to RM128,800, while showroom discounts push entry prices down to RM74,800–RM78,800, demonstrating competitive market positioning. Key highlights include a 0–100 km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds via "Launch Control", Level 2 ADAS driver assistance, and an extensive kit list, playing a strategic role in the HAVAL brand's push towards a more youthful image in the compact SUV segment.

Design Language

Styling-wise, the HAVAL Chitu adopts the "Awakening of Trendy Power" aesthetic. Exterior dimensions differ slightly across variants: the petrol variant measures 4,470 × 1,898 × 1,625 mm (L × W × H), while some promotional variants list dimensions of 4,450 × 1,841 × 1,625 mm, sharing an identical wheelbase of 2,700 mm. Up front sits a prominent hexagonal grille with an electronic-music-inspired light signature, filled with criss-cross mesh or vertical chrome slats and flanked by sharp matrix LED headlamp assemblies that deliver strong road presence. Down the sides, mecha-inspired character lines are complemented by blade-style waistlines, gloss black wing mirrors, and dark door handles, while the sloping fastback roofline creates an athletic, road-hugging stance. At the rear, cyberpunk-inspired full-width tail lamps are paired with a prominent rear spoiler and diffuser trim. High-output variants feature new silver exhaust tips, whereas low-output variants receive high-gloss black window surrounds and a restyled rear spoiler.

Inside, the cabin takes cues from a fighter jet cockpit with a driver-focused, wraparound dashboard featuring geometric diamond-cut accents to exude a futuristic vibe. High-spec variants feature a dual-tone black and yellow interior, where vibrant lemon-yellow highlights accent the instrument binnacle, centre console, and contrast stitching for a lively feel. Practicality is well-catered for with 26 storage compartments throughout the cabin, while boot capacity expands up to 952 litres with the split-folding rear seats folded down.

Powertrain & Performance

The HAVAL Chitu is offered with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid powertrain options. The petrol variant is powered by GWM's GW4B15C 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, tuned in two output states: the high-power tune delivers 135 kW (184 PS) and 275 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm, while the low-power tune pushes out 110 kW (150 PS) and 218 Nm. Both are paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) driving the front wheels. With Launch Control engaged, the high-power variant completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in just 7.7 seconds, returning a WLTC rated fuel consumption of 7.1 L/100 km and a top speed of 190 km/h. The powerplant integrates a VGT turbocharger, second-generation CVVL (Continuously Variable Valve Lift), and a 350-bar direct fuel injection system, achieving class-leading thermal efficiency.

The Hybrid (DHT) variant combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine (GW4G15H, 74 kW) with an electric motor via a dedicated 2-speed DHT hybrid transmission, delivering a combined system output of 140 kW and 370 Nm. Rated under WLTC, it sips just 5.15 L/100 km, comes finished in an exclusive Energy Blue paint shade, and delivers a total cruising range exceeding 1,000 km.

Chassis & Handling

Underneath, the HAVAL Chitu rides on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup, with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard across the range without an AWD option. The chassis is tuned with a distinct sporty edge; the firmer damping setup provides commendable pitch suppression under hard acceleration/braking and controls body roll through corners effectively, matched with sharp steering response that has earned it praise from media as a "hot hatch among SUVs". Initial damper travel is compliant enough to soak up road chatter, while mid-to-end damping stiffens up to offer solid body control during spirited drives. Stopping power comes from ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, assisted by an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold across all trims. Drivers can select from four drive modes (Standard, Eco, Sport, Snow) and tailor steering weight via three presets (Light, Comfort, Sport).

Cockpit & Equipment

On the infotainment and technology front, the HAVAL Chitu offers two central display options: higher-grade variants get a 12.3-inch floating touchscreen infotainment display powered by the Fun-Life intelligent connectivity system—featuring voice command for multimedia, navigation, telephony, climate control, and sunroof operations, alongside FOTA over-the-air updates—while baseline variants feature a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Meter cluster choices include 3.5-inch, 7-inch, and fully digital displays, with top-tier variants adding a head-up display (HUD) featuring Standard, Dynamic, and Snow view layouts. A 6-speaker sound system is fitted as standard, with higher trims offering an enhanced audio experience. Creature comforts include an operable panoramic sunroof, 6-way power-adjustable heated front seats, rear air vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Qi wireless smartphone charging pad, and an in-cabin PM2.5 air filtration system.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Passive safety is underpinned by a high-strength steel safety cage body structure, with high-strength steel making up 81.7% of the frame and critical load-bearing sections rated at up to 2,000 MPa tensile strength, meeting C-NCAP five-star safety standards. Standard passive safety equipment includes front dual airbags, front side airbags, and front/rear curtain airbags on mid-to-high variants, totaling up to six airbags on top variants. Active safety essentials across the board include a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-Start Assist (HSA), and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

In terms of active driver assistance, mid-to-high spec variants are equipped with a Level 2 ADAS suite, including full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC, 0–180 km/h), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Door Opening Warning (DOW), and Rear Collision Warning (RCW). The flagship trim further gains an automated parking assist system capable of handling perpendicular, parallel, and diagonal parking manoeuvres. Additionally, mid-to-high trims come standard with a 360-degree HD surround-view camera (with an optional 540-degree transparent chassis view), significantly aiding low-speed manoeuvring in tight spots.

Market Performance & Verdict

Since its debut, the HAVAL Chitu has carved out a solid niche in the RM80,000–RM130,000 compact SUV segment thanks to its striking aesthetics, punchy powertrain, and comprehensive tech suite. Through 2024 and 2025, the Chitu retained a steady footprint; however, escalating segment rivalry and a slower update cadence have tempered its market presence, with retail sales tapering off gradually compared to its initial peak. As of June 2026, the core sales offering still centres on the 2023 lineup, with its market share facing pressure from newer Chinese domestic and joint-venture contenders. From an ownership perspective, the Chitu's standout strengths lie in its eye-catching styling, energetic performance, and strong value for money. Conversely, owner feedback highlights noticeable tyre roar at highway cruising speeds, a firm ride that compromises rear passenger comfort, and areas where cabin fit and finish could be refined. When stacked against rivals in the same price bracket such as the Changan Oushang X5, Chery Tiggo 7 PLUS, Geely Vision X6, and GAC Trumpchi GS3, the Chitu stands out with its punchy dynamic performance, though its infotainment and ADAS iteration have aged slightly. Overall, backed by distinctive product attributes and robust engineering foundations, the HAVAL Chitu remains a compelling "sporty and youthful" contender in the RM100,000 compact SUV space.